BMW Group goes from making PHEV batteries in Thailand to making EV batteries there.
BMW Group has decided it’s time to push EV battery manufacturing in the ASEAN region to Thailand, something rival Mercedes-Benz has also done. In a significant move towards sustainable mobility, BMW Group has embarked on a groundbreaking project – the construction of a state-of-the-art electric battery factory in Rayong province. Here, BMW Group will be able to manufacture Gen-5 high-voltage batteries
The newly unveiled electric battery factory sprawls across an impressive area of over 4,000 square meters, representing a tangible step towards greener automotive manufacturing practices. With a focus on high-pressure electric battery production, BMW Thailand is gearing up to spearhead the assembly of electric vehicles (EVs) within the region. The plant in Rayong already has experience with BMW’s non-EVs and in 2023 alone, had an output of 12,000 cars and almost 11,000 motorcycles.
What sets this endeavor apart is its pivotal role in BMW Group’s ambitious vision of transitioning towards 100% electric motor vehicles. By laying the foundation for EV assembly in Thailand, BMW is not only embracing eco-conscious practices but also setting a precedent for sustainable innovation in the automotive sector.
The timeline for this groundbreaking initiative is equally remarkable. BMW Thailand is poised to commence the assembly of the first EV model by 2025, a milestone that underscores the company’s proactive stance towards embracing the electric revolution. The chosen location in Rayong province not only offers strategic advantages but also underscores BMW’s commitment to leveraging local resources and expertise.
The significance of this project extends beyond environmental stewardship. It’s a testament to BMW’s unwavering dedication to technological advancement and market leadership. By investing over 1,600 million baht (approximately 42 million euros) in this venture, BMW Group is not only fueling economic growth but also catalyzing a paradigm shift towards sustainable mobility solutions.
While the specifics of the inaugural EV model remain shrouded in anticipation, BMW enthusiasts and eco-conscious consumers alike are eagerly awaiting further details. With BMW’s track record of innovation and excellence, expectations are sky-high for a groundbreaking EV that seamlessly marries cutting-edge technology with unparalleled performance.
