A Chinese automaker is introducing a new plug-in hybrid vehicle at a motor show that has opened in Thailand today. The move is likely to intensify competition in the Thai car market now dominated by Japanese manufacturers.

Great Wall Motor is rolling out the vehicle at the 38th Thailand International Motor Expo 2021. About 30 brands from Japan, China and Europe are taking part.

Great Wall has a plan to use a factory it owns in Thailand as an export hub for its vehicles. The firm is drawing attention by promoting inexpensive electric vehicles.

Toyota Motor, Mitsubishi Motors and other Japanese brands are featuring pickup trucks and SUVs that are popular in Thailand.

Thailand is Southeast Asia's biggest auto-industry hub. Japanese carmakers claim a 90% share of the market.

Koito Eiichi from Mitsubishi Motors Thailand said it is not the first time for the firm to face competitors in the country. He said his firm will make efforts to have customers choose Mitsubishi for its advantage of experience plus new technologies.