SAIC Maxus expands into LCV market with electric van
Bangkok Post, 16 Apr '26
SAIC Motor is expanding into Thailand's light commercial vehicle (LCV) market, focusing on electric vans for urban logistics and transportation as part of its regional electrification strategy.
Its subsidiary, SAIC Maxus, is positioning itself as a participant in Southeast Asia's electric vehicle sector.
"Thailand is a major ASEAN member and an important automotive market in the region," said Wang Ying, general manager of Maxus Thailand, a unit of Maxus Automotive.
He noted that government initiatives, including the EV3.0 and EV3.5 incentive schemes, have supported both production and adoption of battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
SAIC Maxus plans to supply electric vans to corporate and government fleets, offering vehicles tailored for logistics and industrial applications. The company also provides consultation services on fleet electrification and charging infrastructure.
In Thailand, SAIC Maxus has set a target of capturing 10% of the LCV market within two years, in a segment currently estimated at approximately 50,000 units.
To support future demand, the company is in discussions with MG Sales Thailand regarding the expansion of production lines for commercial vehicles. However, there are no plans to establish a new manufacturing facility. Instead, the company will utilise SAIC Motor's existing joint venture with Charoen Pokphand Group in Chon Buri, which produces MG-branded vehicles.
Globally, SAIC Maxus has expanded its presence since 2011 and now operates in more than 100 countries, including markets such as Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France. By 2025, the company had delivered over 222,000 commercial vehicles worldwide.
In Thailand, SAIC Maxus plans to establish 20 showrooms and service centres, in collaboration with Synergetic Auto Performance, to strengthen after-sales services and spare parts supply. The two companies are also exploring investments in EV charging infrastructure.
The company has already introduced several models in Thailand, including the Maxus eDeliver 3, eDeliver 5, eDeliver 7, and eDeliver 9, offering driving ranges between 275 km and 375 km.
With these developments, SAIC Maxus aims to expand its presence in Thailand while supporting the transition towards electrified transport in the region.
