ChangAn Launches Factory in Rayong with Emphasis on Sustainable Production and Efficiency
ChangAn Automobile, a leading smart technology company specializing in low-carbon mobility, has officially inaugurated its first international production facility for New Energy Vehicles (NEV) in Rayong, Thailand. This milestone coincided with the production of the company's 28,590,000th vehicle and represents a significant advancement in ChangAn's global expansion strategy.
The new facility integrates sustainable and low-carbon manufacturing practices, alongside intelligent digital systems that prioritize efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and product quality. The opening of the Rayong factory signifies a pivotal shift in ChangAn's approach towards industrial globalization, moving beyond merely exporting products to establishing a comprehensive manufacturing presence worldwide.
As a central hub for production, the factory features five advanced workshops, including welding, painting, general assembly, engine assembly, and battery production. Notably, 90% of the critical quality control stations in the factory are automated, positioning it among the most advanced within Thailand's automotive sector. The factory is designed with energy-saving and environmentally friendly features that align with green development goals. A 14 MW photovoltaic system is set to supply 45% of the facility's energy needs, while air circulation towers, adjustable blinds, natural lighting, and rainwater recycling systems are implemented to reduce energy consumption and enhance water efficiency, potentially lowering energy costs by approximately 5%.
ChangAn has adopted an innovative and flexible production system aimed at reducing manufacturing costs while ensuring high-quality vehicle output. The welding workshop is equipped with 39 robots and employs advanced material connection techniques, such as FDS, EPS, and SPR, which provide greater strength compared to traditional methods. In the painting section, 29 robots use advanced spraying techniques that extend paint durability to 15 years and decrease emissions by 40%. The assembly line comprises 140 stations, featuring 18 fully automated and 125 semi-automated units. Technologies like automatic sealing adjustment and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) facilitate the production of multiple vehicle models efficiently.
The factory also houses a dedicated energy workshop that supports both engine and battery production, including the precise adjustment of motor components and visual guidance through 22 battery-related processes. Additionally, 45 AGVs create a responsive and flexible manufacturing and transportation system.
As a digitally driven facility, ChangAn employs a comprehensive digital ecosystem based on a microservices architecture for fully online operations. The entire manufacturing process is managed in real-time, improving supply chain coordination and reducing the delivery cycle from 21 days to 15 days. The ChangAn Quality Operating System (CAQOS) provides extensive quality management across supplier parts, vehicle production, and market services. During the manufacturing process, 77 surveillance cameras and 62 fail-safe checkpoints are utilized, establishing 71 quality control processes to ensure consistent quality in parts, production, and services.
Looking ahead, ChangAn aims to localize 80% of its production in the Rayong facility, create 30,000 jobs, and promote low-carbon growth while developing talent to support Thailand's green transition. The company is strategically positioned as a hub for Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, with plans to sell over 5 million vehicles globally and 3 million new energy vehicles by 2030. In the coming three years, ChangAn will introduce 12 new energy models and enhance its AI capabilities. Additionally, a new spare parts center in Rayong will support right-hand drive markets with 24-hour delivery services.
Shen Xinghua, the General Manager of ChangAn Automobile's Southeast Asia Business Unit, emphasized the commitment and collaboration of over 2,000 employees and partners worldwide in achieving this modern and efficient factory. He expressed a long-term vision for contributing to a cleaner, smarter, and stronger automotive future in Thailand and beyond.