ChangAn Opens New Rayong Manufacturing Facility!

ChangAn Automobile has reached a major milestone with the inauguration of its first overseas new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturing facility in Rayong, Thailand. This event coincided with the production of the company’s 28.59 millionth vehicle, a significant achievement that marks the shift from export-focused operations to full-scale international manufacturing. The vehicle produced was the right-hand drive DEEPAL S05, a key model that embodies the company’s commitment to expanding its global presence and transitioning towards sustainable mobility.

The ceremony was graced by Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who engaged in discussions with ChangAn Chairman Zhu Huarong. The Prime Minister expressed strong support for ChangAn’s efforts to establish a comprehensive automotive supply chain in Thailand, highlighting the importance of this venture for both the local economy and the bilateral relations between China and Thailand. This event also marked the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, further solidifying the strategic significance of this collaboration.

The new manufacturing facility in Rayong Province spans an area of 960,000 square meters and initially boasts an annual production capacity of 100,000 vehicles. This capacity is expected to double by 2027 to meet the growing demand for vehicles in Southeast Asia and beyond. The plant’s strategic location enables it to serve as a critical part of ChangAn’s expansion plans in the region, particularly in Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.

ChangAn’s Rayong facility is designed with a focus on sustainability and intelligent manufacturing, incorporating advanced green technologies such as photovoltaic energy systems, rainwater harvesting, recirculating air systems, and full digital operations. These features underscore ChangAn’s commitment to environmentally friendly and cost-efficient manufacturing processes, which are in line with the company’s broader Vast Ocean Plan. The facility is expected to create up to 30,000 jobs, contributing to the local economy through job creation, tax revenue, and skill development, while also supporting Thailand’s ongoing industrialization efforts.

In terms of long-term goals, ChangAn’s “In Thailand, For Thailand” strategy is focused on developing a strong local presence and establishing Thailand as a hub for global operations. The company aims to sell 5 million vehicles globally and achieve 3 million smart NEV sales by 2030. This ambitious target will be supported by the introduction of 12 new NEV models over the next three years, as well as advancements in artificial intelligence and assisted-driving technologies. A new spare parts distribution center in Rayong will further enhance operational efficiency, ensuring 98% customer satisfaction and 24-hour delivery turnaround for right-hand drive markets.

ChangAn’s digital transformation is also on the rise. The company plans to upgrade its Thai digital services platform with AI-enabled features such as smart vehicle controls, remote diagnostics, battery monitoring, and predictive maintenance—all aimed at providing an enhanced, connected customer experience.

Zhu Huarong, Chairman of ChangAn Automobile, emphasized the company’s long-term strategy: “Our objective is long-term, sustainable growth supported by localized operations. This facility will serve as a benchmark for intelligent manufacturing and reinforces our position as a global leader in low-carbon mobility.”

ChangAn’s Green Plan, Intelligent Plan, and Vast Ocean Plan continue to shape the company’s future, establishing CHANG-AN, DEEPAL, and AVATR as the three primary brands driving its mission of low-carbon transportation. With global sales of 2.684 million vehicles in 2024, a 5.1% year-on-year increase, and NEV sales reaching 735,000 units, ChangAn is rapidly cementing its position as a global leader in the automotive and NEV markets. The company has expanded into new markets such as Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and Germany, and has introduced seven vehicle models in Thailand since late 2023, contributing to over 14,000 units sold in the country.

This new facility in Rayong signifies ChangAn’s continued commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global growth, marking a key milestone in its journey to lead the automotive industry into a new era of intelligent, low-carbon mobility.