ChangAn Automobiles Launches First International NEV Production Plant in Thailand

ChangAn Automobile, known for its commitment to low-carbon transportation technology, has made a significant stride in its global expansion strategy known as the Vast Ocean Plan. The company inaugurated its first overseas manufacturing plant for new energy vehicles (NEVs) in Rayong, Thailand, marking a pivotal transition from exporting products to fostering complete industrial ecosystems.

Located on approximately 245 rai (392,000 square meters), the Rayong facility boasts five main workshops, including welding, painting, assembly, engine assembly, and battery production. In addition, it features supporting operations such as appearance quality control. This eco-friendly and energy-efficient plant employs optimized daylight operations, photovoltaic systems, and rainwater recycling, resulting in a 20% reduction in energy costs per vehicle produced.

The new plant demonstrates ChangAn’s commitment to sustainability, as automated processes, adaptive conveyor systems, and enhanced assembly and testing practices ensure manufacturing efficiency and product quality to meet diverse market demands. Eventually, this facility will manufacture vehicles under the CHANG-AN, DEEPAL, and AVATR brands, with projected annual production capacity expected to double from 100,000 to 200,000 units by 2027.

In tandem with the opening of its Rayong plant, ChangAn celebrated the production of its 28.59 millionth vehicle, the DEEPAL S05 with right-hand drive, aimed at global markets. This milestone underscores the company's resolve to elevate its presence in five key overseas markets: Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa, Central and South America, Europe, and Eurasia, aligning them on a strategic level with its domestic Chinese market.

Since launching its brand initiative in Southeast Asia from Thailand in November 2023, ChangAn has introduced seven new models to the Thai market, including the DEEPAL S07, E07, and AVATR 11, collectively achieving sales of over 14,000 units, placing it among the top four NEV manufacturers in Thailand.

The Rayong facility embodies ChangAn's 41 years of automotive manufacturing experience, merging its heritage with local operations to set global standards for talent cultivation and systematic operations. This establishment serves as a foundation for replicating global manufacturing standards and exemplifies best practices in international operations, particularly through the implementation of ChangAn’s lean production system, CPS, focusing on leadership, productivity, and efficiency.

Integrating seven operational systems and six core processes forms the bedrock of ChangAn's lean management strategy, reflecting its commitment to excellence. The CAPDS system at the Rayong plant enhances technical support and engineering development, emphasizing new energy sources, intelligent systems, adaptive designs, and regional innovative product developments.

Being built on the CA-PLS platform, the Rayong factory standardizes production management, facilitating the swift launch of new products. It represents an innovative, sustainable supply chain linking China and Thailand. "This is a pivotal moment for ChangAn — a giant leap from exporting vehicles to creating a local ecosystem," stated Zhu Huarong, Chairman of ChangAn Automobile. "Despite significant challenges posed by the backlash against globalization, ChangAn remains steadfast in its Vast Ocean plan. With a spirit of mutually beneficial collaboration, we aim to contribute more significantly to Thailand's economic and social development and advance the global automotive industry."

ChangAn Plant Image