Mercedes-Benz To Produce Batteries In Thailand For PHEVs

In order produce batteries locally for its PHEV models, Mercedes-Benz will be opening a lithium-ion battery factory in Thailand later this year.

As reported by Bangkok Post earlier today, the factory will make Mercedes-Benz the first carmaker in Thailand to produce batteries locally for its PHEVs.

Due to come into operation later this year, the plant, which will be located at the Thonburi Automotive Assembly Plant (TAAP) where Tatas were once being produced, will be able to serve 5,000 Thai-assembled Mercedes cars annually.

However, it was also reported that Mercedes-Benz could easily double the production if there is a demand for it.

Initially, the factory will cater to plug-in hybrid models in the C, E, S and GLE-Class lineups but it could also supply full-electric models like the Concept EQ in the near future.

With the availability of both battery and car production in Thailand, AMG-powered models are also expected to benefit in the future as Mercedes has a plan to pursue high-performance technologies via the use of electrification.

That being said, the official announcement by Mercedes-Benz regarding the factory setup is expected to be made next month.