Chinese auto manufacturer Great Wall Motor (GWM) is planning to commence production of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) at its manufacturing plant in Thailand by 2023, according to local media reports.
The company will invest around THB22mn (0.71mn) for the electric vehicle production, upgradation of its factory in Rayong, and its renewable business.
The company informed that it is in the process of creating its business plan and manufacturing facilities for new car production.
The decision is a clear indication that Thailand is expected to be a major electric vehicle production base in the future.
The company said that it plans to focus on marking its presence in the Thai market and will exports BEVs to other countries. The country has a high potential for the automotive industry and the Thai government is also supporting the new generation of vehicles, the company added.
The company is also in talks with the Thai energy authorities and real estate developers and shopping mall owners to increase the number of car charging stations to serve BEV drivers across the country. Great Wall Motor has not set an annual sales target in Thailand as it plans on building a brand image first.