In 2025, Thailand has solidified its position as the leading automotive production hub in Southeast Asia. While in 2012 the key news was Mitsubishi’s exit from Europe and relocation to Thailand, today the country is at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution.
According to the Thailand Automotive Institute (TAI) and OICA, in 2024, the country produced 2.38 million vehicles, making Thailand the 9th largest auto producer globally — ahead of the UK, Russia, India, and Italy.
From Combustion to Electric
If Thailand was once known for pickup trucks (Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max) and Mitsubishi models (Triton, Pajero Sport), today the focus has shifted to electric vehicles (EVs).
Key players:
- BYD: launched a plant in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) with 150,000 EVs/year capacity;
- Great Wall Motor (GWM): produces Ora and Tank models for Asia and the Middle East;
- Neta Auto: began mass production of affordable EVs;
- Toyota and Honda: gradually shifting lines to hybrid and hydrogen tech.
The share of EVs in total production rose to 18% in 2024 (under 1% in 2020).
Why Do Automakers Choose Thailand?
The government provides favorable conditions:
- Tax incentives: up to 8 years of corporate tax exemption for EV manufacturers;
- Subsidies: up to 600,000 THB (~17,000 USD) per EV model exported;
- Infrastructure: EEC — high-tech zone with ports, airports, 5G;
- Workforce: skilled engineers, wages lower than in China or Japan.
What About Mitsubishi?
Yes, in 2012, Mitsubishi Motors closed its plant in the Netherlands and moved production of Outlander and Triton to Thailand. However, since 2023, the brand no longer sells independently in Europe.
Today, Thai Mitsubishi plants produce:
- Triton (L200): one of Asia’s best-selling pickups;
- Xpander: minivan for Southeast Asian markets;
- ASX: compact crossover for the region.
Part of production is integrated into the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance.
Outlook 2025–2030
Expected:
- Growth of EV share to 30–40% of total output;
- Launch of first CATL battery production line in Rayong;
- Development of hydrogen energy and autonomous transport systems;
- Global recognition of Thailand as the 'Automotive Capital of Southeast Asia'.
"We’re no longer just assembling cars. We’re building the future of mobility," said TAI Director Anurak Sukvimol. "An EV from Thailand is not an exception. It’s the norm."
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