(Yicai) Nov. 10 -- Changan Automobile held a groundbreaking ceremony recently for the Chinese carmaker’s manufacturing base in Thailand, which will supply the markets of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and other right-hand drive regions, according to a report.

Changan Auto broke ground for its factory in Rayong province on Nov. 8, Chongqing Daily reported yesterday. Its first phase will have an annual production capacity of 100,000 vehicles and become operational in early 2025, while the second stage will increase output to 200,000 units.

The plant, which includes coating, final assembly, engine assembly, and battery assembly workshops and supporting facilities, is an important milestone in Changan Auto's plan to enter overseas markets, the report said.

The partnership gives Chongqing-based Changan Auto a solid guarantee to use Thailand as a regional center for its electric vehicle segment, Vice President Wang Hui was cited as saying.

Changan Auto will devote itself to offering outstanding technological products and excellent service to customers in Southeast Asia and the rest of the world, Chongqing Daily added. It also aims to speed up its expansion in Europe, North and South America, the Middle East, Africa, the Asia-Pacific region, and the Commonwealth of Independent States to build up its global brand image and awareness.

In April, Changan Auto announced a plan to enter overseas markets, committing to invest over USD10 billion by 2030 and develop itself into a world-class brand. The carmaker expects annual sales abroad to top 1.2 million and its overseas headcount to reach more than 10,000.

Thailand is Southeast Asia's largest car manufacturer and the world's 10th biggest maker and 16th largest seller of vehicles, Chongqing Daily said. It produces more than 2 million autos per year and has nearly 700 first-tier car parts suppliers and the most mature infrastructure among all SE Asian countries. 

Thailand is advancing its EV transition, and the number of these vehicles will account for 30 percent of its total output by 2030, the report noted, citing a plan released by the Thai government.

Editor: Martin Kadiev