Suzuki Motor Corp announced it will cease car and truck production in Thailand by the end of next year to concentrate on electric and hybrid vehicle manufacturing elsewhere. The Japanese automaker will continue its sales and after-sales services in Thailand through vehicle imports from other Asean countries, Japan, and India.

Suzuki to build Thai small-car plant for 2012 start

“In the course of promoting carbon neutrality and electrification globally, Suzuki had been considering optimising global production sites within the group,” the company stated, revealing the decision to close the Rayong province plant by the end of 2025. The 12-year-old plant, operated by Suzuki Motor Thailand Co, has an annual production capacity of 60,000 units and employs around 800 people, according to Bloomberg.

Japan's #Suzuki Motor will stop production in #Thailand to focus on the transition to electric vehicles.https://t.co/h59ObYzrMo pic.twitter.com/juL57ux052

— Tech Wire (@asiatechwire) June 7, 2024

This move comes as Japanese automakers face intense competition from Chinese rivals in Thailand and increasing pressure to produce more electric and hybrid vehicles.

Kia considering investing in a local electric vehicle factory in Thailand

Meanwhile, BYD Co chairman Wang Chuanfu commented on the global reception of Chinese electric cars, asserting that Europe and the US are “afraid” of these vehicles. Speaking at an industry summit in Chongqing, Wang noted that foreign politicians are increasingly wary of China’s growing presence in the EV market.

-Thailand News (TN)