Rayong. In a historic move that underscores its commitment to technological advancement and sustainable practices, BMW Group Manufacturing Thailand has commenced the construction of its high-voltage battery production facility in Rayong Province. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by key figures including Dr. Milan Nedeljković, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Production; Dr. Ernst Reichel, the Ambassador of Germany to Thailand; Mr. Danainat Chockamnuay, Advisor to the Minister of Industry; Mr. Kamthorn Wehan, Deputy Governor of Rayong Province and Mr. Wirat Tatsaringkansakul, Deputy Secretary General of Thailand Board of Investment.
The new facility, covering over 4,000 square meters, marks a significant expansion of BMW Group Manufacturing Thailand’s operations into high-voltage battery production. This move sets the stage for the company’s first BMW battery-electric vehicle (BEV) model to be assembled at Plant Rayong in the second half of 2025. The process involves assembling imported battery cells into a module and integrating them seamlessly into the final battery pack using advanced robotic systems and machinery, ready for use in BEVs. This expansion represents a significant milestone in BMW Group’s commitment to sustainable mobility solutions and technological advancement.
BMW Group has invested more than 1.6 billion baht or approximately 42 million euros in this cutting-edge project, which includes the latest Gen5 technology. A substantial portion of this investment, almost 1.4 billion baht or approximately 36 million euros, is dedicated to state-of-the-art machinery and equipment, reflecting BMW Group’s commitment to bringing innovative technology to Thailand.
“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, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Production, at the ground-breaking ceremony.
Dr. Nedeljković, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Production, at the ground-breaking ceremony.
As well as developing its own workforce, the BMW Group is very much involved in boosting industry in Thailand and the global transition to mobility solutions that help conserve resources. This year it is collaborating with
UNICEF in Thailand to improve career opportunities for young people through a targeted Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education programme, training and careers advice.
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BMW AG, Production
