ChangAn's Grand Expansion Strategy: Launching International NEV Factory in Thailand

On May 20, 2025, ChangAn Automobile, a prominent player in intelligent low-carbon mobility technology, celebrated a dual milestone: the official production commencement at its first international NEV manufacturing facility located in Rayong, Thailand, and the significant occasion of rolling off its 28.59 millionth vehicle. This event also coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand, underscoring the importance of this factory not only for ChangAn but for international commercial relations.

Built under the framework of ChangAn's ambitious Vast Ocean Plan, this factory is intended to be a global benchmark in manufacturing, showcasing the company's commitment to long-term growth and sustainable mobility. Mr. Zhu Huarong, the Chairman of ChangAn, articulated the company's vision, stating, "Our aim is to build this factory as a global benchmark. We will continue to focus on long-term growth, and mutually beneficial, low-carbon, localized operations."

The Vast Ocean Plan represents ChangAn's effort to shift from mere brand internationalization to the export of comprehensive industrial capabilities. Since its inception in 2023, the plan has already seen the company filing over 14,000 patents, with a remarkable 70% being innovative inventions. This translates to an impressive average of 19 patents filed per workday, reflecting ChangAn's commitment to research and development, as well as their top-ranking status in the industry.

ChangAn envisions its global expansion to span five key international markets, with aspirations of becoming a world-class automobile brand. The company has successfully launched over 22 distinct brands across Southeast Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, establishing over 9,000 outlets worldwide. Notably, it has committed more than 30 million yuan annually towards environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investments, showcasing its dedication to supporting global welfare initiatives.

The opening of the Rayong factory is a testament to ChangAn's resolve to enhance its manufacturing and operational capabilities internationally. Construction commenced in November 2023, and within a short span, mass production began in May 2025, marking a significant leap in production capabilities. The DEEPAL S05 and extended-range EV models made a grand debut at the 2025 Bangkok International Motor Show, signifying the factory's strategic shift from product exports to entire industrial exports.

In addition to its Southeast Asian ventures, ChangAn has made strides in Latin America through brand conferences aimed at showcasing high-value products tailored to regional needs. Meanwhile, after three decades of sustained presence in the Middle East and Africa, the company launched six new energy models in September 2024 to cater to the evolving market landscape.

The establishment of the Turin Design Center in 2001 demonstrates ChangAn's long-standing commitment to Europe, further solidified by its renewed focus on sustainable mobility and local R&D efforts since launching a brand in Germany in March 2025.

As this Vast Ocean Plan enters a new phase in 2025, ChangAn is set on enhancing its global footprint, aspiring to elevate five major international markets to the same strategic level as its home market in China. Their ambitious target includes growing global market capacity from 30 million to a remarkable 50 million vehicles while intensifying localization efforts within these regions.

Moreover, plans are in motion for 11 KD projects in nations like Kazakhstan and Egypt, aimed at extending international production capacity to 500,000 vehicles. This expansive vision encapsulates ChangAn's resolve to lead the industry towards a sustainable future while fostering economic relations internationally.

In conclusion, ChangAn's strategic factory launch in Thailand is not merely a steppingstone in its global expansion but a critical milestone that reflects its ambitions and dedication to sustainable, low-carbon mobility. As ChangAn continues to pave the way for innovation in the automotive landscape, its efforts resonate well beyond the borders of China, marking its evolution as a significant global player in the automotive sector.