Chinese automaker Chery has commenced local assembly of its V23 electric SUV in Thailand, expanding its presence in the country and advancing plans to establish Thailand as a regional new-energy vehicle (NEV) production hub.

Thailand becomes the second ASEAN market, after Indonesia, where the company offers a locally-assembled V23. The V23 is expected to be assembled at Chery's new manufacturing facility in Nikhom Phatthana District, Rayong Province. The company had originally planned to begin operations at the plant in the third quarter of 2025 but formally inaugurated the facility in April 2026.

According to recent media reports, the Rayong plant will also assemble the Lepas L6 electric vehicle and is expected to support its launch on July 24th.

Part of Thailand production expansion plan

The Thai facility covers approximately 166,400 square metres and is focused on completely knocked-down (CKD) assembly operations. Chery has outlined a total investment of approximately THB 5 billion (US$ 149 million) for the project and is targeting annual production capacity of 80,000 vehicles by 2028. The company had previously announced plans to add a dedicated paint shop by 2027. However, following the delayed commencement of operations, an updated timeline has not yet been disclosed.

Chery stated that the Thai plant operates to the same standards as its manufacturing facilities in China, utilising automation, production technologies and quality management processes throughout the assembly line. According to the company, every V23 undergoes a quality inspection covering structural integrity, safety systems, electrical systems and driving performance before delivery to customers.

Jim Li, Executive Director of the Chery brand in Thailand, said the commencement of local assembly demonstrates the company's long-term commitment to the Thai market.

"Opening the Chery V23 assembly line in Thailand this time reaffirms Chery's commitment to long-term business in Thailand. Since entering the Thai market in Q3 2025, we have received a warm welcome from Thai customers, reflected in sales," he said. Li further added that Chery intends to continue improving spare-parts availability, service quality and workforce development in Thailand.

Pricing remains unchanged

Chery has retained the V23's pricing following the transition to local assembly. The range starts at THB 699,900 for the 2WD Play variant, increases to THB 759,900 for the 2WD Plus, and reaches THB 889,900 for the 4WD Peak variant.

Between July 1st and July 31st, 2026, customers purchasing the V23 will receive a THB 10,000 discount. Chery is also offering a lifetime warranty covering the high-voltage battery, drive motor and motor control unit.

Electric SUV

Positioned as a fully electric subcompact SUV, the V23 features a boxy design and incorporates technology and practicality aimed at younger buyers and urban users.

Powertrain and performance

The V23 is available in rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. The rear-wheel-drive variants, sold as the 2WD Play and 2WD Plus, are equipped with a 59.93 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack and a single electric motor producing 100 kW and 180 Nm of torque. This configuration enables acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 11 seconds, a top speed of 140 km/h and a driving range of 360 km under the NEDC test cycle.

The 4WD Peak variant features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 155 kW and 292 Nm of torque. It is powered by an 81.76 kWh battery pack that delivers an NEDC driving range of 430 km. The model accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds while maintaining the same top speed of 140 km/h. Additional features include 21-inch wheels and an off-road driving mode.

India production plans

Beyond ASEAN markets, the V23 is also planned for local production in India. JSW Motors, the newly established automotive division of India's JSW Group, has already begun testing the vehicle in the country. According to media reports, the company plans to launch a rebadged version of the V23 in 2028 and assemble it at a forthcoming manufacturing facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra.