China’s BYD Inaugurates First Plant In Thailand

Chinese automaker BYD inaugurated its first electric vehicle (EV) plant in Thailand last week, as part of the company’s push into Southeast Asia while also tackling wealthier markets in the US and Europe, Elaine Kurtenbach reported for the Associated Press (AP).

The new factory in Rayong, south of Bangkok, was built in just 16 months and has an annual production capacity of 150,000 vehicles. I Photo: BYD Thailand

The factory’s opening coincides with the European Union (EU) beginning to impose higher tariffs on EVs made in China due to concerns over competition from cheaper-priced imports.

In the US, the Biden administration is also raising tariffs on Chinese EVs to 100% from the current 25%.

Although the US currently imports very few Chinese cars, both the European Commission (EC) and the US worry that subsidies hurt domestic companies and cost jobs.

The new factory in Rayong, south of Bangkok, was built in just 16 months and has an annual production capacity of 150,000 vehicles. It manufactures several BYD models as well as batteries and transmissions.

The opening on Thursday was marked with great fanfare, including the presentation of a BYD Dolphin, a compact hatchback, to a charitable foundation under the patronage of the Thai royal family. That vehicle was the 8 millionth vehicle manufactured by BYD, the company said.