Core Viewpoint - Toyota is planning to source components from Chinese manufacturers for its largest production base in Southeast Asia, Thailand, indicating a shift in its supply chain strategy to adapt to the growing electric vehicle market and competition from Chinese automakers [2][3][4]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - Japanese automakers, including Toyota, are facing increased competition in Thailand, where their market share has declined significantly from over 90% to around 30% in 2024, with Toyota's sales dropping by 17.1% year-on-year [5][6]. - The overall automotive demand in Thailand is slowing, and rising costs of traditional fuel vehicles are pushing consumers towards energy-efficient options, benefiting Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers like BYD, which achieved a market share of 2.57 million units in the first half of the year [6][7]. Group 2: Electric Vehicle Trends - The Thai government has introduced the "EV3.5" policy, providing substantial subsidies for battery electric vehicles (BEVs), which has led to a market penetration rate of 14.0% for electric vehicles in 2024, with Chinese companies holding over 80% market share [7]. - Despite the dominance of hybrid and traditional fuel vehicles, there is a noticeable shift towards electric vehicles in Thailand, with BYD capturing significant sales [7][8]. Group 3: Supply Chain Strategy - Toyota's strategy includes localizing its supply chain by partnering with Chinese component manufacturers to reduce costs, with estimates suggesting a 30% reduction in costs for new models using Chinese parts [8][14]. - The company has previously collaborated with Chinese battery manufacturers, utilizing their technology in models like the Platinum 3X and bZ3, indicating a trend towards integrating Chinese technology into its offerings [11][12]. Group 4: Battery Production and Localization - Toyota's current battery production in Thailand focuses on nickel-metal hydride batteries for hybrid vehicles, while Chinese companies are filling the gap for BEV batteries, with several Chinese battery factories already established in Thailand [10][12]. - The company is cautious about building its own BEV battery factory in Thailand, focusing instead on hybrid models and facing challenges in localizing battery production due to market demand and cost issues [14][15]. Group 5: Competitive Landscape - The pricing of locally produced electric vehicles, such as BYD's Dolphin, is significantly lower than Toyota's bZ4X, which could impact Toyota's competitiveness in the Thai market, especially with upcoming subsidy regulations [15][16]. - The collaboration between Chinese and Japanese companies in Thailand is expected to create a tri-party component network, reflecting a shift towards a more integrated supply chain [17].