Changan is making some serious moves in Southeast Asia, with its new manufacturing plant in Rayong, Thailand, officially firing up its production lines. This isn’t just another factory, it is a strategic hub set to churn out Changan, Deepal, and Avatr vehicles for markets including Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, dramatically boosting the brand’s regional presence.
A New Era for Changan in Southeast Asia
Construction on the Rayong plant kicked off in late 2023, a rapid development that saw painting, engine assembly, and battery assembly lines come online by May 15. While current annual production capacity stands at an impressive 100,000 units, Changan has its eyes set on a much bigger prize, planning to double that to 200,000 units by 2027. These right-hand-drive models are specifically tailored for key markets, underscoring Changan’s meticulous approach to global expansion. Changan representatives at the launch event emphasized the plant’s role as a cornerstone for the company’s international ambitions. This Thai facility aims to set new benchmarks for Changan’s global manufacturing, research and development, and supply chain strategies .
Deepal S05: The Trailblazer
The first vehicle to roll off the new production line was the Deepal S05, a right-hand-drive crossover. This compact SUV hits the sweet spot with dimensions of 4620/1900/1600 mm and a wheelbase of 2,880 mm. It is a touch shorter than the Skoda Enyaq, but don’t let that fool you. Inside, it boasts a comfortable five-seat layout and a 492-liter trunk. The electric variant even surprises with a 159-liter frunk, a thoughtful touch for extra storage.
Performance That Impresses
Under the hood, or rather, at the rear axle, the Deepal S05 EV packs a punch with a 175 kW (235 hp) electric motor. This translates to a respectable 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.3 seconds. Powering this performance is a 56.12 kWh LFP battery, delivering an NEDC electric range of 470 km. For those seeking even more versatility, the EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle) variant features a 160 kW (215 hp) e-motor, combined with a smaller 27.28 kWh LFP battery for 170 km of pure electric range. A 1.5-liter naturally aspirated generator extends the total range to an impressive 1,000 km in EREV mode, tackling range anxiety head-on. Notably, the Deepal S07, another model manufactured by Changan, has also seen upgrades in its range and performance.
Changan’s Vision for the Future
Changan’s push into Thailand is a clear indicator of its aggressive global strategy. While the company sold 14,000 vehicles in Thailand to date, missing its 2024 sales goal of 15,000-18,000 units due to local economic headwinds, it remains committed to the market. Currently, Changan Automobile focuses exclusively on new energy vehicles in Thailand, offering models like the Changan Lumin, Deepal S05, Deepal E07, Deepal L07, Deepal S07, and Avatr 11. The automaker plans to introduce 12 more new energy cars over the next three years, signaling a strong commitment to electrification and regional growth. This expansion aligns with the broader trend of Chinese automakers making significant strides in overseas markets, as exemplified by companies like BYD establishing production facilities internationally.
