China Automotive Technology and Research Center opens in Thailand

China opens a China Automotive Technology and Research Center (CATARC) in Thailand, making it the fourth global facility of its kind, after Germany, Switzerland and Japan.

This comes after major investments from Chinese carmakers in the country, with companies like BYD and Great Wall Motor committing to investing US$1.44 billion in new production facilities, says Thailand Business News.

The BYD exhibition area at the 44th Bangkok International Motor Show held in March 2023.

Affiliated with the Chinese government, CATARC will serve as a support hub for Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers operating in Thailand, as the country plans to convert a third of its annual vehicle production into electric vehicels (EVs) by 2030. The government is also offering subsidies and incentives to boost investments in domestic EV manufacturing.

Chinese automakers, including BYD and SAIC Motor, are actively expanding their Southeast Asian market, particularly in Thailand, with aim to manufacture EVs in the country.

Currently, Chinese automakers hold 10% share of sales volume in Thailand, while Japanese automakers have experienced a decline in their market share. This highlights the growing competitiveness of Chinese automakers in Thailand, according to Thailand Business News.

Nevertheless, CATARC will monitor automotive standards and regulations in Thailand and surrounding countries, providing valuable information for operations to Chinese automakers. The institute will also collaborate with Thai authorities on testing and certification technology.