Chinese automaker Chery to produce 50,000 EVs in Thailand with upcoming plant

Photo credit: Chery

Thailand had previously rolled out incentives to encourage carmakers from China to invest in the Southeast Asian country’s electric vehicle production capabilities.

Now, China-based Chery Automobile is set to construct a manufacturing plant in Thailand, with vehicle production planned to start by 2025, Reuters reported, citing Thailand’s Board of Investment.

The plant aims to initially produce 50,000 hybrid and electric vehicles, but the number is expected to increase to 80,000 by 2028. With this, Chery would be the eighth Chinese car company to invest in manufacturing in Thailand, coming after majors BYD, Great Wall Motor, and Changan Automobile.

Thailand’s auto industry, traditionally dominated by Japanese firms such as Toyota and Honda, has seen Chinese investments of over US$1.44 billion in recent years, the report noted.

Recognizing Thailand’s crucial role as an auto assembly and export hub, Thai authorities aim for one-third of the country’s annual vehicle production – around 2.5 million currently – to be electric by 2030, supported by new subsidy and incentive policies.

EV players from other countries have also been interested in expanding their reach into Thailand. These include Vietnam’s VinFast, which recently announced its partnership with 15 local dealerships.

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