Mazda to Invest ฿5 billion to make Thailand its electrified compact SUV hub

Mazda Motor Corp. has announced a ฿5 billion (US$150 million) investment to position Thailand as its manufacturing hub for electrified compact sport utility vehicles (SUVs). The announcement was made by Masahiro Moro, President and CEO of Mazda Motor Corp., during a meeting with Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, underscoring Mazda’s long-term commitment to the country and its role in the company’s global strategy.

The investment will expand production lines at Mazda’s AAT and MPMT plants, with a targeted annual production capacity of 100,000 units. The electrified compact SUVs—designed to meet international standards for performance, environmental sustainability, and hybrid technology—will serve both domestic and export markets, including Japan and ASEAN countries.

“This investment marks a significant step toward Mazda’s gradual transition to xEV production,” said Mr. Moro. “We aim to make Thailand the manufacturing hub for our electrified compact SUVs, producing high-performance vehicles that combine advanced hybrid technology with eco-friendly design.”

The funding will be directed toward enhancing vehicle assembly lines, powertrain production, and critical electrification components, including batteries, engines, and automatic transmissions. Mazda also plans to strengthen its local supplier network, ensuring a robust ecosystem to support future electrification technologies.

This move not only cements Thailand’s position as a regional automotive leader but also contributes to the nation’s ambition of becoming a hub for next-generation vehicle manufacturing. By boosting local capabilities and supplier integration, Mazda’s investment is expected to significantly advance Thailand’s automotive industry, workforce skills, and overall economy.