GAC AION and BOI Team Up to Source Thai Suppliers for EV Parts at “AION Sourcing Day”

Through “AION Sourcing Day,” GAC AION and BOI bring together 74 Thai companies to support local EV production.

GAC AION, a key Chinese electric vehicle producer, recently collaborated with Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) to connect with local parts suppliers at the “AION Sourcing Day” held at Rama Gardens Hotel in Bangkok on 6 November 2024.

This event aimed to secure local suppliers in preparation for GAC AION’s upcoming EV production, set to launch in Thailand in early 2025. A projected 2.25 billion THB will be allocated for sourcing local components, with 74 companies joining to explore business opportunities with GAC AION.

GAC AION Thailand’s Managing Director, Mr. Ocean Ma, expressed optimism for Thailand’s EV future, emphasizing the company’s commitment to supporting Thailand’s “30@30” policy.

He highlighted GAC AION’s plans to create a robust EV ecosystem in the country, with a focus on fostering long-term growth and mutual benefit. “AION Sourcing Day underscores our dedication to using local resources and building an internationally competitive supply chain,” he said.

GAC AION ranks among the world’s top three new energy vehicle manufacturers, producing over 480,000 units per year with a growth rate averaging 77% annually.

In 2023, the company committed to building its first overseas EV manufacturing facility in Thailand, backed by a 5.6 billion THB investment, to produce 20,000 units per year. The plant will include a battery production facility to support its assembly line, further strengthening GAC AION’s footprint in Thailand’s EV sector.

BOI Secretary-General Mr. Narit Therdsteerasukdi co-hosted the event with Mr. Ma, aiming to provide GAC AION with suppliers for key EV parts such as interior and exterior components, chassis parts, traction motor parts, battery components, and more.

Mr. Narit stated that this partnership will improve access for Thai suppliers to the EV market and benefit both parties by advancing local expertise, creating subcontracting and joint-venture opportunities, and facilitating technology exchange. Suppliers close to GAC AION’s new plant will also benefit from reduced logistics costs and greater production efficiency.

GAC AION’s goal is to use local expertise and resources to develop an EV hub in ASEAN, enhancing Thailand’s role in the regional market. Local suppliers will gain from the increased demand for EV parts and the opportunity to work closely with one of the world’s leading electric vehicle manufacturers.