On May 16, Changan Automobile’s Rayong factory in Thailand officially began production. The 28,590,000th vehicle, a right-hand drive deep blue S05, also rolled off the line. Chairman Zhu Huarong announced plans to increase the factory’s capacity. By 2027, the annual output will grow from 100,000 to 200,000 vehicles. Over the next three years, Changan will launch 12 new energy models in the Thai market.
Changan Automobile has always followed the development strategy of “No overseas, no Changan” and “No base, no Changan.” On November 8, 2023, the company held the groundbreaking ceremony for the Rayong factory in Thailand. Thanks to the joint efforts of both countries, the Rayong factory officially started production in just over a year. This factory, equipped with advanced technologies, has a production capacity of 100,000 vehicles per year. It will gradually expand to 200,000 vehicles per year, showcasing the remarkable speed and strength of “Made in China.” The Rayong factory is Changan’s first overseas vehicle manufacturing plant. It combines 41 years of automotive experience with systematic practices and local characteristics. This combination has created a mature global standard system and trained a group of international talent. This foundation will help Changan quickly promote and replicate its global factory standards. The overseas factory is also Chongqing’s first overseas new energy vehicle plant and the first new energy vehicle plant established by a central enterprise abroad. It has become a new business card for “Made in China” as it steps onto the world stage.
The Changan Automobile factory in Rayong has a total investment of about 10 billion baht. The factory follows a “green and smart” design concept. It uses advanced technologies like photovoltaic power, rainwater recycling, circulating air, virtual simulation, and digital bases. These technologies reduce energy consumption per vehicle and improve manufacturing efficiency. According to the plan, Changan, Deep Blue, and Avita brands will all produce vehicles at the Rayong factory in the future.
Changan Automobile Chairman Zhu Huarong announced plans for 12 new energy models in Thailand over the next three years. These products will target key markets in Southeast Asia and Australia. Changan will establish a parts warehouse in Rayong, positioning it as a global right-hand drive parts center. The company will upgrade its digital service platform in Thailand using AI. This platform will offer smart vehicle control, intelligent maintenance, battery monitoring, and remote diagnostics. Changan aims to exceed 5 million global sales by 2030, with smart connected new energy vehicle sales surpassing 3 million.
The latest model to be discontinued is the right-hand drive Deep Blue S05. This new car retains the Deep Blue family style while adding flight elements. It appeals more to young people’s preferences. Notably, the headlights feature HUAWEI XPIXEL technology. They include a 1.3 million pixel intelligent light and shadow system with a 120-inch projection area. The headlights offer six auxiliary lighting functions and can project various light effects for a high interaction experience. In terms of size, the car measures 4620mm in length, 1900mm in width, and 1600mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2880mm. It falls within the standard compact SUV dimensions. The interior showcases the latest minimalist design from the Deep Blue family. It eliminates the traditional dashboard, replacing it with a 50-inch AR-HUD head-up display. The overall style is simpler and more efficient. For smart features, it includes an intelligent emotional interaction cabin. This cabin has a 15.4-inch 2.5K central control screen, an 8155 chip, and DEEPAL OS 3.0, which provide a smoother smart interaction experience.
The new car offers pure electric and extended range versions. The pure electric version delivers a maximum power of 175 kW and a maximum torque of 320 Nm. It features a “Golden Bell” battery developed by Changan and CATL. If the battery capacity falls below 80% within 200,000 kilometers, Changan will provide a free replacement. The car supports 3C fast charging technology, charging from 30% to 80% in just 15 minutes. The extended range version includes a 1.5L engine, allowing for a range exceeding 1,000 km with a full tank and battery. In recent years, Changan has strengthened its local operations, including in Southeast Asia. The Thai market now features seven new models, including the Deep Blue S07 and Avita 11. During its expansion, Changan empowers local automotive industry upgrades and takes on social responsibilities. For example, during flooding in Chiang Rai, the Changan Thailand volunteer team quickly provided assistance. The Rayong factory’s production marks a strategic upgrade from product export to industry expansion, showcasing China’s smart automotive quality in the global market.