#Thailand #Changan Automobile #New Energy Vehicle #Rayong #Rayong Factory

ChangAn Automobile Unveils its Rayong Factory

ChangAn Automobile, renowned for its commitment to intelligent low-carbon vehicles, has taken a monumental step with the opening of its first international manufacturing base in Rayong, Thailand. This pivotal moment for the company coincided with the production of its 28.59 millionth vehicle, marking a significant milestone in its ambition for global expansion.

The Rayong factory represents a bold initiative as part of ChangAn's Vast Ocean Plan, transitioning from mere product exports to a comprehensive industrial globalization strategy. It is engineered to showcase the possibilities of smart manufacturing, sustainable growth, and digital innovation within the automotive industry.

State-of-the-Art Manufacturing Facilities

The factory complex is designed with sustainability and efficiency at its core. It encompasses five automated workshops primarily focused on welding, painting, assembly, and battery production. Notably, 90% of the quality control processes within these workshops are automated, placing ChangAn among the most technologically advanced facilities in Thailand's automotive sector.

In alignment with green development goals, ChangAn has integrated energy-efficient solutions throughout the plant. A significant part of its power requirements will be fulfilled by a 14MW photovoltaic system that is expected to supply 45% of the facility's electricity. Other energy-saving measures include air recirculation systems, natural lighting, and rainwater recycling systems aimed at enhancing water and energy efficiency.

Innovative Production Techniques

ChangAn’s manufacturing strategy involves a unique and flexible production system designed to reduce costs while maintaining high value in its vehicles. The welding shop, for instance, utilizes 39 advanced robots alongside innovative materials joining technologies like FDS, EPS, and SPR. This results in stronger connections compared to traditional methods. The painting workshop, equipped with 29 robots, leverages cutting-edge spraying techniques that extend the paint’s durability to 15 years and decrease emissions by 40%.

The assembly line is robust, featuring 140 stations, including both fully and semi-automated units—18 and 125 stations respectively—allowing for the production of multiple vehicle models and types. This system supports the rigorous demands of both engine and battery manufacturing with advanced technologies for precision and visual guidance in the production processes.

Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), numbering 45, facilitate a flexible and responsive manufacturing and logistics operation that streamlines production processes.

A Digital-First Approach

Adopting a digital-first philosophy, ChangAn has implemented a comprehensive digital ecosystem that operates on a microservices architecture, enabling full online operational capabilities. The real-time scheduling of the manufacturing process has drastically improved supply chain management, reducing the order delivery cycle from 21 days down to 15 days. The ChangAn Quality Operating System (CAQOS) provides robust quality management across all production facets, from supplier parts to market services.

Seventy-seven surveillance cameras and numerous quality checkpoints are deployed throughout the manufacturing process to ensure rigorous quality control, embodying an end-to-end approach to excellence in production.

Looking Ahead: Goals for Local Impact

Looking to the future, ChangAn aims to localize 80% of its production at the Rayong facility, potentially generating up to 30,000 jobs in Thailand. This strategic move is part of a broader commitment to supporting low-carbon economic growth while fostering local talent as Thailand transitions to more sustainable energy practices.

Positioned as a manufacturing hub for Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, ChangAn has set ambitious sales targets, aspiring to achieve over 5 million global vehicle sales and 3 million new energy vehicle sales by the year 2030. Over the next three years, it plans to introduce 12 new energy models while expanding its AI features to enhance vehicle functionality.

A new parts center in Rayong will cater specifically to right-hand drive markets, ensuring efficient delivery within 24 hours. As Shen Xinghua, Managing Director of ChangAn Automobile Southeast Asia Business Unit, aptly stated, "We are here for the long run. Together, we will help shape a cleaner, smarter, and stronger automotive future—in Thailand, for Thailand, and for the world."