German automotive maker BMW and the Thai government have recently broken the ground for a new high-voltage battery assembly plant in Thailand. Particularly, the new manufacturing facility will produce Gen-5 batteries.

After a joint ground-breaking ceremony with Milan Nedeljković, a Board Member for Production, representatives of the Thai government and the German ambassador to Thailand Ernst Reichel, construction work is underway. With that, the BMW Group is readying yet another production facility to manufacture fully electric vehicles. Moreover, it will start the local BEV production in the second half of 2025.

“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,” said Milan Nedeljković, Board Member for Production at BMW AG, at the ground-breaking ceremony.

State-of-the-Art Facility

The forthcoming high-voltage battery assembly facility will have a footprint of 4,000sq.m. Thus, an important addition to the business activities of BMW Group Manufacturing Thailand.

Moreover, the new assembly line will convert imported battery cells into modules that will then be integrated into high-voltage batteries. The BMW Group has invested more than 1.6 billion Thailand baht (approx. 42 million euros) in the project. Specifically, a significant share of which – almost 1.4 billion baht (approx. 36 million euros) – will be used to buy state-of-the-art equipment and systems.

The BMW Group has been producing high-voltage batteries in Thailand for locally made plug-in hybrids since 2019. Plant Rayong manufactures around two dozen BMW, MINI, and BMW Motorrad models for the Thai as well as various ASEAN markets. In 2023, output totaled more than 12,000 cars and almost 11,000 motorcycles.

Comprehensive Training Program

Employees will undergo comprehensive training programs. Particularly, focusing on a global production network to improve the technical skills of local staff through knowledge transfer. Moreover, the investment in professional training and development also underscores the BMW Group’s commitment to advancing the Thai economy.

As well as developing its workforce, the BMW Group also focuses in boosting the industry in Thailand and the global transition to mobility solutions. Thus, helping conserve resources.

This year it is collaborating with UNICEF in Thailand to improve career opportunities for young people through a targeted STEM education program, training, and career advice.