Great Wall Motor opens EV learning centre

Great Wall Motor (GWM) recently opened a Electrical Vehicle Learning Center at the Chonburi Technical College by the Office of the Vocational Education Commission in an effort to promote the capabilities and learning of Thai youths.

The company said in a press release that it has provided an ORA-branded vehicle to support practical education at the centre, equipping younger generations with essential skills to serve future market requirements.

Additionally, GWM has signed a memorandum of understanding regarding EV vocational workforce production and development under the supervision of the Sub-Committee of Public-Private Sectors for Vocational Workforce Production and Development for EV-related careers.

GWM stated that the initiatives reiterated the company's mission and readiness to become the xEV leader with full commitment to thrive alongside society and drive Thailand's transformation into the hub of EV manufacturing and exports in Asean.

The collaboration between GWM, the Office of the Vocational Education Commission and Chonburi Technical College will provide further opportunities to develop skills and capabilities through EV-specific experiences for vocational students, while teachers will have an opportunity to enhance and round out their curriculum.

GWM noted that in the future, this endeavour will equip Thailand with a quality workforce capable of driving forward the new energy vehicle industry, creating a full-fledged EV ecosystem, and transforming Thailand into the regional hub of the EV industry.

Since its entry into Thailand several years ago, GWM has been active in activities and collaborations with various agencies and schools. Its joint effort with Pridi Banomyong International College of Thammasat University is aimed at offering opportunities and practical experience in the electric vehicle industry to undergraduate students. The sponsorship for the world's second biggest business case competition -- the Thammasat Undergraduate Business Challenge -- allows undergraduate students from leading universities around the globe to utilise their knowledge, capabilities, and analytical skills.

The partnership with the Office of the Vocational Education Commission and Mahanakorn University of Technology was initiated to study, design and produce modern vehicle training equipment from passenger cars. The initiative also covers other science-based technology vocational colleges under the Office of the Vocational Education Commission's supervision. The alliance with the Digital Economy Promotion Agency allows GWM to provide an ORA-branded vehicle for educational use throughout DEPA's network of vocational schools.