ChangAn Automobile has commenced operations at its first overseas new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturing facility in Rayong, Thailand. The inauguration coincided with the production of the company’s 28.59 millionth vehicle—the right-hand drive DEEPAL S05—marking a significant transition from export-led operations to full-scale international manufacturing. This milestone reinforces ChangAn’s strategic objective of global industrial expansion, underpinned by a commitment to sustainable mobility, intelligent manufacturing, and digital ecosystem development.
The launch event was attended by Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who held discussions with ChangAn Chairman Zhu Huarong. The Prime Minister expressed support for ChangAn’s efforts to develop a comprehensive automotive supply chain in Thailand. The event also coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand.
Located in Rayong Province, the factory spans approximately 960,000 square metres and currently has an annual capacity of 100,000 vehicles. This is projected to double by 2027. The plant is designed to support local supply chains and contribute to economic development through job creation and increased tax revenue. ChangAn plans to create up to 30,000 employment opportunities as part of its corporate social responsibility agenda.
The Rayong facility serves as a core pillar of ChangAn’s Vast Ocean Plan, demonstrating the company’s ability to establish high-efficiency, low-cost, intelligent manufacturing centres aligned with global sustainability goals. The plant incorporates advanced green technologies including photovoltaic energy systems, rainwater harvesting, recirculating air systems, virtual simulation, and fully digital operations.
With Thailand positioned as a strategic hub for Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, ChangAn is executing its “In Thailand, For Thailand” strategy. The company aims to exceed 5 million global vehicle sales and 3 million smart NEV sales by 2030.
Over the next three years, ChangAn will introduce 12 new NEV models and expand its deployment of artificial intelligence and assisted-driving technologies. A new spare parts distribution centre in Rayong will support global right-hand drive markets, targeting 98% customer satisfaction and 24-hour delivery turnaround.
To further enhance the customer experience, ChangAn will upgrade its Thai digital services platform with AI-enabled features, including smart vehicle controls, remote diagnostics, battery monitoring, and predictive maintenance.
Since launching its third entrepreneurial initiative in 2017, ChangAn has pursued global growth through its Green Plan, Intelligent Plan, and Vast Ocean Plan. The company has developed three primary brands—CHANG-AN, DEEPAL, and AVATR—aimed at establishing leadership in intelligent, low-carbon transportation.
In 2024, ChangAn recorded global sales of 2.684 million vehicles, a 5.1% increase year-on-year. NEV sales reached 735,000 units, reflecting 52.8% growth. The company entered new markets in Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and Germany, and introduced seven vehicle models in Thailand since November 2023. Cumulative sales in Thailand have exceeded 14,000 units, positioning ChangAn among the top four automotive brands in the market.
Zhu Huarong, Chairman of ChangAn Automobile, commented “Our objective is long-term, sustainable growth supported by localised operations. This facility will serve as a benchmark for intelligent manufacturing and reinforces our position as a global leader in low-carbon mobility.”
ChangAn is a global mobility technology company focused on intelligent, low-carbon transportation solutions. Its product portfolio spans passenger vehicles, pickups, and light commercial vehicles. As part of the Mahindra Group, ChangAn is committed to innovation-driven growth and industrial transformation in line with global sustainability objectives.
