Changan Opens First Full-Scale Overseas NEV Plant in Rayong
Changan Automobile officially opened its Rayong factory at WHA Eastern Seaboard Industrial Estate 4 on 16 May 2025, with WHA publishing its report on 23 May. The THB 10 billion, 250-rai project is Changan's first full-scale new-energy vehicle manufacturing plant outside China.
The factory has five principal workshops covering welding, painting, vehicle assembly, engine assembly and battery assembly. Phase 1 is designed for 100,000 vehicles per year, while Phase 2 is planned to raise capacity to 200,000; the second figure is an expansion plan, not current output. The site targets right-hand-drive markets in Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand.
The project also plans a 14-megawatt solar system intended to provide up to 45% of factory electricity, so this should not be described as already installed. WHA says more than 30,000 jobs are expected across the value chain; that is an impact projection, not a claim that the factory directly employs 30,000 people.
Note: This article is based on the listed public sources and is not investment, legal, tax or compliance advice. Thailand tax, VAT, WHT, BOI, customs, e-Tax or PDPA interpretations and responsibilities must be reviewed for the actual project by qualified professionals in Thailand.