Sunwoda: Thailand Expands EV Battery Production
Thailand's Commission on the National Competitiveness Enhancement for Targeted Industries has approved a landmark investment exceeding a billion dollars by China's Sunwoda Electronic subsidiary. The investment to produce EV and energy storage system (ESS) batteries at the cell level will enhance the country's supply chain and bolster EV manufacturing for domestic and export markets.
The Commission, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Mr Pichai Chunhavajira, is critical in shaping Thailand's industrial future. As Chairman of the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI), Mr Pichai oversees the Commission's work in fostering new industries that add economic value and ensure long-term competitiveness. Established by law in 2017, the Commission serves as a key driver of sustainable industrial growth in Thailand.
Sunwoda's expansion into Thailand
Sunwoda's first Thai factory is progressing as planned, with construction advancing steadily. Once operational, the facility is expected to create more than 1,000 jobs, with the entire project employing a significantly larger workforce, including engineers and researchers. Sunwoda aims to contribute to the country's growing expertise in advanced battery technologies by incorporating research and product development within its Thai operations.
A subsidiary of Shenzhen-based Sunwoda Electronic Co., Ltd., Sunwoda is a leading producer of batteries for various electronic devices, mobility solutions and energy storage systems. In 2023, Sunwoda's SEVB brand ranked first in hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) battery sales and third in high-end EV battery sales in China.
The upcoming Thai factory will be Sunwoda's first EV-related battery cell facility in the ASEAN region, marking expansion into Southeast Asia.
Thailand's growing EV industry
Thailand has long been a dominant player in the global automotive industry, ranking 10th worldwide and first in Southeast Asia for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle manufacturing in 2023. The government's strategic policies to electrify the sector—through subsidies, tax incentives and investment promotions—have led to significant foreign investment in EV and hybrid production.
Several leading Chinese manufacturers, including BYD, SAIC Motor (MG), Great Wall Motor, Hozon New Energy Automobile (Neta) and GAC Aion, have already established production facilities in Thailand.
Chongqing Changan Automobile aims to open its local factory in the coming weeks, while Chery Automobile is constructing its manufacturing plant.
Thailand's EV ecosystem is expanding rapidly, supported by a growing network of charging stations, local charger production, car part manufacturing and the assembly of battery packs and modules.
Integrating Sunwoda's battery cell production into the supply chain will further solidify Thailand's position as Asia's leading EV production hub.
Investment surge in Thailand's advanced industries
Investment promotion applications in Thailand surged by 35% in 2024, reaching US$33.9bn—the highest level since 2014. Major direct foreign investment drove growth projects in data centres, cloud services and semiconductors, including advanced electronics manufacturing. The automotive and parts sector ranked third in investment value, with 309 projects amounting to US$3bn.
With continued government support, strategic foreign investments and a robust supply chain, Thailand is well-positioned to lead Southeast Asia in EV and advanced battery production. The Sunwoda project represents a significant step towards strengthening the country's EV industry and enhancing its role in the global transition to sustainable transportation.
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