General
Motors and Isuzu will combine pickup truck production in Thailand from 2003
when an all-new Isuzu model is released. The new model may also be the basis
of a new Opel/Vauxhall Frontera SUV built in Europe.
In the meantime, Isuzu will follow Ford/Mazda and Mitsubishi and transfer remaining
pickup production from Japan to the Samut Prakan plant in Thailand, which already
accounts for about half of the company’s global pickup output.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Discover B2B Marketing That Performs
Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.
Samut Prakan will then produce vehicles for Thailand, Australia and New Zealand
while GM’s Rayong plant supplies other markets.
The vehicles will be badged to suit individual markets.
Australian and New Zealand models will have Holden badges but it is not yet
known if a Chevrolet version of the new model will be offered in Thailand.
The new pickup is expected to have common-rail direct-injection diesel engine
technology and to meet Euro III emission standards. Versions will also be sold
in Europe with Opel and Vauxhall badges.
