Changan Automobile (SHE: 000625) has commenced vehicle exports from its Thailand plant, becoming the latest Chinese automaker to do so after BYD (HKG: 1211, OTCMKTS: BYDDY).
The automaker shared the progress on Weibo today, stating its Rayong plant in Thailand shipped its first batch of locally produced Deepal S05 vehicles to Europe.
Changan did not provide further details. Images shared showed the initial shipment comprised 500 units.
As numerous Chinese automakers establish factories in Thailand, the Southeast Asian nation is emerging as a key export hub for them.
In August, BYD's Thai subsidiary announced its factory had produced and shipped its first batch of BYD Dolphin EVs to Europe.
These BYD vehicles, exceeding 900 units, were bound for destinations including the UK, Germany, and Belgium.
Construction of Changan's Thai factory commenced in November 2023, with a total investment of about 10 billion baht ($320 million).
Its initial annual production capacity is 100,000 units, set to gradually expand to 200,000 units.
Located in Rayong -- a port and industrial city in eastern Thailand -- the facility joins factories operated by other Chinese automakers including BYD and GAC.
Changan's Rayong plant commenced operations on May 16, witnessing the rollout of its first vehicle -- the right-hand-drive version of the Deepal S05.
The company said that models from its brands -- Changan, Deepal, and Avatr -- will be produced at this Thai facility.
Deepal is Changan's new energy vehicle (NEV) brand unveiled in 2022. The Deepal S05 SUV (sport utility vehicle) was launched in China in October 2024.
The model offers battery electric vehicle (BEV) and extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) options in China, currently starting at RMB 116,900 ($16,680).
In Thailand, the Deepal S05 starts at 799,000 THB ($25,740) after subsidies, according to Changan Thailand's website.
($1 = RMB 7.0067, $1 = 31.04 THB)
