The BMW Group is preparing another facility at its Rayong site in Thailand to produce fully electric vehicles. The new electric model is set to start production in the second half of 2025.
Construction efforts are currently in progress for the BMW Group’s new local manufacturing facility dedicated to the production of Gen-5 high-voltage batteries. This initiative marks the preparation of another manufacturing site for the production of fully electric vehicles at the Rayong location in Thailand. The launch of a new electric model at this facility is anticipated for the latter half of 2025.
Milan Nedeljković, a member of the Board of Management for Production at BMW AG, stated that establishing a local production facility for high-voltage batteries in Rayong is a natural extension of the ongoing electrification of their production network. This decision is based on the “Vocal for local” principle, which aims to promote economic growth, create job opportunities, and facilitate knowledge transfer in Thailand and the broader ASEAN region. The upcoming 4,000-square-meter high-voltage battery assembly facility will play a key role in the BMW Group Manufacturing Thailand operations. The new assembly line will convert imported battery cells into modules, which will then be used in high-voltage batteries. The BMW Group has invested over 1.6 billion baht (approximately 42 million euros) in this project, with nearly 1.4 billion baht (approximately 36 million euros) allocated to purchase advanced equipment and systems.
Since 2019, the BMW Group has been producing high-voltage batteries in Thailand for locally manufactured plug-in hybrids. The Rayong plant produces an array of models for the BMW, MINI, and BMW Motorrad brands, catering to both the Thai market and other ASEAN markets. In 2023, the plant’s output exceeded 12,000 cars and nearly 11,000 motorcycles.
Training Program: Employees at the facility will participate in extensive training programs conducted within the global production network. These programs aim to enhance the technical skills of local staff through knowledge transfer, highlighting the BMW Group’s commitment to promoting professional development and contributing to the advancement of the Thai economy.
