Key facts
- Kim Long Motor has launched its buses in Thailand, marking its first overseas market.
- The company plans to establish Thailand as a strategic manufacturing and export hub for the ASEAN region by 2027-2030.
- Phase 2 of the partnership involves shifting from Completely Built-Up exports to local assembly in Thailand with a localization rate of over 50%.
- Kim Long Motor introduced EURO 5-compliant internal combustion engine models and fully electric vehicles.
- The KIMLONG99 series is a 12-meter bus with 42-44 seats for inter-provincial travel.
- The KIMLONG19-N21 is a 7.9-meter bus with a 21-seat layout for urban transit and short-haul routes.
Kim Long Motor, a Vietnamese bus manufacturer, has officially entered the Thai market, establishing its first overseas production base. The company launched its buses in Bangkok on September 15 in collaboration with its authorized distributor in Thailand, KIJSETTHI Mobility, which has been in place since April. This move deepens industrial ties between Vietnam and Thailand, particularly during the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.
KIJSETTHI Mobility has established a nationwide sales and after-sales service network, including showrooms, service stations, and spare parts warehouses, offering 24/7 technical support and warranty services. The partnership aims to deliver high-quality transport solutions tailored for the Thai market.
In the initial phase, Kim Long Motor is introducing completely built-up (CBU) commercial vehicles, including next-generation EURO 5-compliant internal combustion engine models and fully electric vehicles. The company is also gathering market feedback to enhance product quality. The second phase, planned from 2027 to 2030, will see a transition to local assembly (CKD) in Thailand with a localization rate exceeding 50%. This strategic shift aims to make Thailand a manufacturing and export hub for the ASEAN region, fostering supporting industries and creating local employment.
Kim Long Motor highlighted its automated and digitized production lines, maintaining autonomy across its value chain from components to chassis and electrical systems. The company stated a 90% localization rate for its diesel buses and 60% for electric vehicles, targeting 90% for EVs by late 2026. The launched models, such as the 12-meter KIMLONG99 series and the 7.9-meter KIMLONG19-N21, are designed for inter-provincial travel and urban transit, respectively, featuring amenities like USB charging ports, refrigerators, and advanced air conditioning. Safety features include internal and external camera systems and emergency exits. The KIMLONG99 series is powered by a YUCHAI K11 engine, offering fuel efficiency of 19-21 liters per 100 km.