Chinese auto brand BYD has exported its first batch of 959 electric vehicles from its Thailand factory on Monday, boosting the kingdom's strategy of building an EV production hub for the left-hand drive mode.

Beginning with the Dolphin left-hand drive model, this first batch is destined for the European market, including Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands.

The export operation is carried out by BYD's own vessel -- the BYD Zhengzhou, which has set sail from Thailand to Europe for the first time, marking a further enhancement of the brand's global supply chain and maritime logistics network.

Speaking at the vessel's departure ceremony in Chon Buri Province, Phonnathorn Vongprom, director of the Board of Investment's 4th Regional Investment and Economic Center, said the voyage demonstrates the strong economic links between Thailand and international markets.

"This is not only BYD's achievement but also Thailand's pride. The Thai government will continue to promote and support such investments to strengthen the domestic value chain, enhance technological capabilities, and solidify Thailand's position in the global EV industry," he said.

Yuphin Boonsirichan, chairman of the Automotive Industry Club, Federation of Thai Industries, said the milestone reaffirmed the country's importance in the global new energy vehicle supply chain. It also highlighted the kingdom's capability to become a global connection for EV production and exports.

Production and sales of EVs in Thailand have been on the rise in recent years due to the shift in demand from gasoline-powered cars to lower-emission vehicles, alongside the Thai government's efforts to boost domestic productivity. The government aims to see the country producing all types of electric vehicles to comprise 30 percent of total vehicle production by 2030.

Thailand's legacy as the largest automotive hub in Southeast Asia and the 10th largest in the world, together with demand from the global EV market, has enabled this transition.

A report from business consulting firm Tractus, the country's total EV component exports to the world reached $562 billion in 2023. The country has become the third-largest producer and exporter of EV electronic components for the Japanese market and the ninth largest for the United States.

BYD's Thailand plant, located in Rayong Province, covers 96 hectares with an annual production capacity of 150,000 vehicles. It is the company's first overseas passenger vehicle production base. In July, the plant celebrated the delivery of its 90,000th new energy vehicle.

"The export to the European market is another breakthrough, which demonstrates the global competitiveness of 'Made in Thailand' and contributes to green mobility, industry upgrading, and carbon reduction goals. It is also underscores Thailand's vital role in the global NEV supply chain," said Ke Yubin, general manager of BYD Auto (Thailand) Co, Ltd.

As a key part of BYD's global production network, the Thailand plant integrates local supply chains and demonstrates the brand's advanced manufacturing expertise. It not only serves domestic demand but also supports exports to Europe and other global markets, reinforcing Thailand's role as a strategic hub in the worldwide EV industry.