BMW starts EV battery plant in Thailand

German automaker BMW Group has officially commenced the construction of its new high-voltage battery assembly plant in Rayong, Thailand, marking a significant step towards the company’s commitment to electric vehicle (EV) production. Local battery electric vehicle (BEV) production is scheduled to start in the second half of 2025.

The Rayong facility, spanning 4,000 square meters, represents a critical expansion of BMW Group Manufacturing Thailand’s operations. This new assembly line will focus on transforming imported battery cells into modules, which will then be used to create high-voltage batteries for BMW’s next generation of electric vehicles. The company has allocated more than BHT1.6 billion (USD44.3 million) towards this venture, with a substantial portion dedicated to acquiring cutting-edge equipment and technology.

The groundbreaking ceremony was held in early March and was attended by Milan Nedeljković, BMW AG’s board member for Production, along with Thai government officials and the German ambassador to Thailand, Ernst Reichel.

“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 Nedeljković.

Since 2019, the BMW Group has been producing high-voltage batteries for plug-in hybrids in Thailand. The Rayong plant is responsible for manufacturing a wide range of BMW, MINI, and BMW Motorrad models, catering to both the Thai market and several ASEAN countries. Last year, the plant produced more than 12,000 cars and nearly 11,000 motorcycles.

To ensure the success of this ambitious project, BMW Group is investing in comprehensive training programs for its employees, enhancing their technical skills through global knowledge transfer. This initiative not only aims to bolster the local workforce but also underscores BMW’s dedication to contributing to Thailand’s economic growth.

In addition to workforce development, BMW Group is collaborating with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Thailand on an education program focused on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), aimed at improving career prospects for young people. This partnership reflects BMW’s broader commitment to fostering industry growth in Thailand and supporting the global shift towards sustainable mobility solutions.

The BMW Group, with its prestigious brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce, and BMW Motorrad, continues to lead the premium automotive and motorcycle sectors while offering top-tier financial and mobility services. With a global production network and sales in more than 140 countries, BMW’s strategic focus on sustainability and efficient resource management remains central to its long-term success.