Chinese automaker Changan Automobile has commenced vehicle exports from Thailand, shipping out 500 units of the Deepal S05 to Europe, the company announced.
Changan has invested up to Bt10 billion to make Thailand its production hub for EVs (electric vehicles) and hybrids, consisting of both Plugin Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) as well as Range Extended Electric Vehicles (REEVs).
The Chinese automaker initially stated that exports from Thailand will be shipped to ASEAN markets as well as Australia, New Zealand, Great Britain and South Africa.
While Changan did not specify which market the first 500 units of the Deepal S05 will be shipped to, photos posted on Changan Thailand’s Facebook page showed right-hand-drive vehicles, corresponding with its plan to export to Great Britain.
Major Chinese automakers are all present in Thailand with local production and vehicle exports, including BYD, Great Wall Motor, Geely, Chery, GAC and MG. Great Wall Motor has exported more than 5,000 ORA Good Cats and GWM Tank to various markets around the world, while in August this year, BYD shipped out its first batch of 900 Dolphin EVs to Europe.
The S05 electric SUVs are assembled at Changan Auto’s newly-constructed plant in Rayong province, which is the company’s largest production facility outside of China.
While the Changan factory will cover all aspects or production including paint shop, assembly, engine and battery, the second phase investment will bring the total investment to Bt20 billion with production to eventually reach 200,000 units per year, the company stated.
Thailand will serve as the production base for the entire Asean market as well as other right-hand-drive markets around the world, supplying both electric vehicles and hybrids.
