Parts Transformation: ชิ้นส่วนยานยนต์ไทย พลิกโฉมสู่อุตสาหกรรมแห่งอนาคตParts Transformation: Thai Auto Parts Redefining the Future Industry

On July 3, 2025, Mr. Isares Rattanadilok na Phuket, Vice Chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), had the honor of presiding over the seminar "Parts Transformation: Options - Survival for Thai Automotive Parts," together with Mr. Supatch Sukphisan, Chairman of the Automotive Parts and Accessories Industry Group at FTI, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.

This seminar serves as a gathering of efforts to seek crucial answers on how the Thai automotive parts industry can survive and thrive as the world transitions to electric vehicles and new technologies.

Mr. Isares stated that Thailand needs to drive its industrial sector forward to become a New Growth Engine, especially in the automotive parts industry which is currently facing significant challenges. FTI places great importance on the transition of the Thai automotive industry into the future, or Part Transformation.

"Today, I am pleased to see all entrepreneurs being proactive because this is a critical step that will help strengthen and sustain the Thai economy and the automotive parts industry in the long term," said Mr. Isares.

Meanwhile, Mr. Supatch addressed the situation of the Thai automotive industry, noting that although 2025 targets production at 1.5 million units, a slight increase from the previous year, domestic sales continue to contract, particularly in pickup trucks where sales have dropped by over 20% in the Northeast and Central regions due to household debt and a sluggish economy. Additionally, electric vehicles (EV) are rapidly transforming the industry, prompting parts manufacturers to seek new opportunities for survival and stable growth in the future.

This event received an enthusiastic response, with an atmosphere full of interest from automotive parts entrepreneurs and various industrial groups who gathered to listen and exchange ideas with the speakers. After the opening remarks, the speakers shared experiences regarding their own business transitions intensely, reflecting the potential of Thai entrepreneurs who are ready to adapt to the future.

Dr. Kriangsak Wongphratorn, Director of the Automotive Institute, opened up interesting new perspectives on developing Thai automotive parts for the rail systems industry. He highlighted that electric trains will have a niche market with significant growth potential. Dr. Kriangsak revealed that the Automotive Institute has signed a cooperation agreement with the Railway Technology Research and Development Institute (Public Organization) or STR, and Blue Engineering S.r.l. from Italy to develop Thailand's rail systems industry. He also cited Turkey as an example of a country that has successfully exported trains, stating, "If Turkey can do it, why can't Thailand?"

In addition, Dr. Ekarat Wainit, Director of the Rail and Modern Transport System, National Metal and Materials Technology Center, or MTEC, discussed the exciting and challenging project focused on developing multiplier vehicles towards the future business ecosystem, stating that "even though the prototype vehicles have achieved their goals, there are still business challenges regarding production and transportation." This emphasizes that developing technology alone is insufficient; comprehensive systemic development is necessary for sustainable business.

Mr. Charak Trangadisai, Managing Director of BKF Aerospace, shared his journey of "Exponential Growth," starting with just $50,000 in 2012. Today, the company occupies 4,240 square meters, employs 330 people, and produces over 2,100 aviation parts with a CAGR of 72%. However, this success comes with challenges at the global, national, and company levels.

Ms. Watchara Leekomolchai, Chief Executive Officer of CLP Group, transformed crises into opportunities when competition from China necessitated a reinvention from "automotive parts manufacturer" to "agricultural machinery innovator," utilizing Japanese-standard rice milling machines priced affordably for Thai SMEs. Not stopping there, CLP Group has also created a "comprehensive agricultural ecosystem," encompassing upstream machinery, irrigation systems, and downstream processing, along with a learning center and Innovation Park to elevate Thai farmers to become true "Smart Farmers."

Furthermore, Mr. Napoom Wityapat, Factory Manager from C.C. Autopart, recounted an unexpected transition from 35 years of expertise in metal forming for automotive parts to producing complete dental units. He emphasized four key factors for transformation, including detailed target market research, factory standard improvements, robust logistics system creation, and personnel skill development.

Ms. Siraporn Onart, Managing Director of O.E.I. Part, shared her journey towards becoming the "Silicon Valley of Asia," starting from business matching in 2015. "We began SOPs in 2016 and currently derive over 30% of our revenue from the semiconductor and electrical industry, down from nearly 90% reliance on the automotive sector," she disclosed. This adaptation involves not just product changes but a complete elevation across all dimensions, including precise chemical composition, stricter precision tolerance, and significantly higher cleanliness standards.

The key to success lies in good planning, leveraging existing strengths, and being ready to adapt to changes, alongside appropriate support from the government.

This transition is not merely about surviving a crisis but about creating new opportunities that will help strengthen the Thai economy in the long term.

This seminar clearly demonstrates that "Parts Transformation" is not just a phrase but a real endeavor by Thai entrepreneurs who are ready to transform from "parts producers" to "innovation leaders" in a new industry to create a sustainable future for the Thai economy.