China EVs made in Thailand may circumvent US restrictions

China’s manufacturers are investing more than NZ$1.6 billion (US$1 billion) to assemble their EVs near Bangkok in Thailand to expand local and international sales.

So says Bangkok-based American foreign correspondent Richard S Ehrlich, adding that Thailand produces 2.5 million vehicles annually and that numbers are expected to grow with China now exporting its EVs into Thailand’s domestic market, while constructing facilities in Thailand to assemble Chinese EVs for additional sales there and abroad.

He says future Chinese cars “Made in Thailand” could challenge “Made in China” restrictions in the US and elsewhere.

China’s BYD and Great Wall Motor reportedly agreed to spend NZ$2.28 billion (US$1.4 billion) in new EV production and assembly facilities in Thailand while Chery is building a factory there to produce vehicles for the domestic market and export.

Neta Auto, part of Chinese EV manufacturer Hozon Auto, has also announced plans for EVs in Thailand, aiming to produce about 20,000 annually, according to reports.

China’s Changan Automobile also has plans to invest in a Thailand EV plant, while Chinese battery and energy storage system manufacturer Svolt Energy Technology intends building an EV battery factory there.

Tesla has also reportedly shown interest in Thailand.