BMW Group Launches High-Voltage Battery Plant Construction In Thailand For Electric Vehicles

The BMW Group has initiated construction on a new manufacturing facility in Rayong, Thailand, marking a significant step towards expanding its electric vehicle (EV) production capabilities. This development comes after a joint ground-breaking ceremony attended by Milan Nedeljković, Board Member for Production at BMW AG, alongside representatives from the Thai government and the German ambassador to Thailand, Ernst Reichel. The ceremony underscored the commencement of work on the site dedicated to producing Gen-5 high-voltage batteries, essential for powering fully electric vehicles (BEVs).

Slated to begin production in the latter half of 2025, this move is part of BMW's strategy to bolster its production network's electrification. "Local production of high-voltage batteries in Rayong is the next logical step in the continued electrification of our production network. Once again, the principle of 'local for local' applies, supporting economic development, employment opportunities and knowledge transfer in Thailand and the ASEAN region," stated Nedeljković during the ceremony.

The upcoming high-voltage battery assembly facility will span 4,000 square metres and represents a crucial expansion of BMW Group Manufacturing Thailand's operations. This new assembly line will transform imported battery cells into modules, which will then be assembled into high-voltage batteries. The project has seen an investment exceeding 1.6 billion baht (approximately 42 million euros), with nearly 1.4 billion baht (around 36 million euros) allocated for purchasing advanced equipment and systems.

Since 2019, the BMW Group has been producing high-voltage batteries for locally manufactured plug-in hybrids in Thailand. The Rayong plant is responsible for manufacturing around two dozen models from BMW, MINI, and BMW Motorrad brands for both Thai and various ASEAN markets. In 2023 alone, the output from this plant included more than 12,000 cars and almost 11,000 motorcycles.

In addition to enhancing its manufacturing capabilities, the BMW Group is committed to advancing the technical skills of its local workforce through comprehensive training programmes delivered within its global production network. This initiative not only aims to improve employee competencies but also supports the Thai economy's growth.

Furthermore, BMW's commitment to fostering industry development in Thailand extends beyond its immediate business activities. In collaboration with UNICEF in Thailand, the company is working to enhance career opportunities for young people through a targeted STEM education programme that includes training and career advice. This partnership reflects BMW's broader objective of promoting sustainable mobility solutions globally.

This strategic expansion in Rayong aligns with BMW's vision of increasing its footprint in electric vehicle production while contributing positively to local communities and economies within Thailand and the broader ASEAN region.