Sunwoda Invests $1 Billion in Thailand’s EV Battery Manufacturing Expansion

Thailand’s electric vehicle (EV) supply chain is set for a major boost as China’s Sunwoda Electronic secures approval to invest over $1 billion in EV battery cell and energy storage system (ESS) production. The investment, approved by Thailand’s National Competitiveness Enhancement Commission, strengthens the country’s position as a key EV manufacturing hub in Southeast Asia.

Sunwoda Automotive Energy Technology (Thailand) will establish a lithium-ion battery production facility in the Eastern Economic Corridor, beginning with a plant in Chonburi Province. The project is expected to generate over 1,000 skilled jobs upon launch, with additional hiring of Thai engineers and researchers planned to support the industry’s long-term development.

“This milestone in Thailand’s EV supply chain reinforces our status as a manufacturing hub for EVs and hybrids while enhancing national competitiveness,” said Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary General of the Board of Investment (BOI). The investment aligns with Thailand’s broader shift from conventional automotive manufacturing to electrification, further integrating local charging infrastructure, battery assembly, and renewable energy solutions.

Sunwoda’s entry into Thailand also advances the country’s adoption of ESS and solar energy, with the knowledge transfer from the project expected to benefit the domestic workforce. “This project will help widen the use of ESS and solar energy while creating thousands of skilled jobs, contributing to the development of a critical industry for the future,” Therdsteerasukdi added.

Headquartered in Shenzhen, Sunwoda ranks first in hybrid battery sales and third in high-end EV batteries in China. The Thai facility marks its first EV battery cell manufacturing site in ASEAN, reinforcing Thailand’s appeal for high-value foreign direct investment (FDI). The country has witnessed a surge in investment promotion applications, reaching a decade-high 1.14 trillion baht in 2024, with the automotive sector playing a key role in driving investor confidence.