MAJOR Chinese automaker Geely is in the early stages of planning an entry into Thailand’s electric vehicle (EV) market, including weighing models for import and local manufacturing, according to sources with knowledge of the discussions.

The considerations include whether to market an entry-level electric car in Thailand as well as an electric pickup truck from its new Radar brand, the sources said.

“Geely has no such plans,” a company media representative said without elaborating, also declining to provide details about any talks it was having about investments in Thailand.

Thailand’s Board of Investment held discussions with five major Chinese EV makers, including Geely, during a roadshow to China in April, its secretary-general Narit Therdsteerasukdi said.

The others were BYD Co., Chongqing Changan Automobile Co., JAC Motors and Jiangling Motors Corp., according to the agency.

“All expressed keen interest in Thailand’s policy to develop a regional EV production base and an integrated EV supply chain,” Narit said, without providing more details of the talks with Geely.

Thailand, the world’s 10th-biggest auto producer, is searching for new investments as it seeks to protect and diversify a manufacturing base that has been heavily reliant on Japanese brands and combustion engines.

The country aims to convert around 30% of its annual production of 2.5 million vehicles into EVs by 2030, according to a government plan.

BYD and China’s Great Wall Motor Co. are already working on building local EV production in Thailand. (SD-Agencies)