News and Activities – AAPICO

SODECIA AAPICO JV Announces New $120 Million Manufacturing Facility in Orangeburg, South Carolina

AH IR

State-of-the-art ladder frame plant will create nearly 400 new jobs; groundbreaking ceremony set for December 8, 2025

Left to Right:
1. Mr. Oliver Wollinsky, Chief Production Officer, Scout Motors
2. Mr. Yeap Swee Chuan, President & CEO, AAPICO Hitech PLC
3. Mr. Rui Monteiro, CEO SODECIA
4. Mr. Ryan Decker, Vice President Strategy and Brand, Scout Motors
5. The Honorable U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn, South Carolina’s 6th Congressional District
6. Mr. Johnnie Wright, Chairman, Orangeburg County Council
7. Ms. Ashely Teasdel, Deputy Secretary, South Carolina Department of Commerce
8. Mr. Joey Williamson, Vice Chair, Orangeburg County Development Commission Board
9. Mr. Chad Lowder, CEO, Tri-County Electric Cooperative

Orangeburg, South Carolina —The newly formed SODECIA AAPICO Joint Venture (SODECIA AAPICO JV) is pleased to announce that it will invest $120 million to build a new manufacturing facility in Orangeburg County, South Carolina, to produce ladder frames for Scout Motors. The 400,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art plant will create nearly 400 new jobs.

SODECIA and AAPICO, both family-owned global automotive manufacturers, announced in May the establishment of a new strategic joint venture in the United States, combining their core strengths and capabilities to better serve a key customer in the automotive sector, Scout Motors, through the manufacture and supply of advanced ladder frames. This new investment will enable SODECIA AAPICO JV to serve as a critical parts supplier for Scout Motors, the emerging automotive manufacturer that is revitalizing an iconic American brand and building its new Production Center in nearby Blythewood, South Carolina.

The SODECIA AAPICO Joint Venture broke ground on this new manufacturing facility on December 8, 2025. The new facility will feature top-of-the-art manufacturing technology, advanced automation, and energy-efficient systems designed to meet the highest global standards. Construction is expected to be completed during 2027.

The SODECIA AAPICO investment is projected to generate substantial economic benefits for the region by creating hundreds of high-quality jobs and strengthening the local automotive supply chain. The project is expected to attract additional suppliers and advance workforce development initiatives within Orangeburg County and the surrounding communities.

A Strategic Partnership with Global Strength

SODECIA is a global Tier 1 supplier headquartered in Portugal, operating across more than 40 locations in Europe, North and South America, and Asia. The company specializes in engineering and manufacturing innovative structural components, powertrain systems, and mechanisms for the world’s leading automotive manufacturers.

AAPICO is a publicly listed Tier 1 automotive parts manufacturer based in Thailand with more than 30 years of industry experience. The company excels in the production of jigs, dies, press parts, chassis frame components, cradles, plastic parts, and forged and machined components. AAPICO operates through 54 subsidiaries and associated companies across Thailand, Malaysia, China, and Portugal, supplying many of the leading Japanese OEMs in Asia.

SODECIA and AAPICO are recognized for their shared commitment to quality, modernization, technological advancement, operational excellence, and long-term partnerships with global automotive manufacturers. Their joint venture reflects a unified vision of innovation and responsiveness in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape.

By leveraging SODECIA’s global manufacturing expertise and AAPICO’s operational excellence and market agility, the new venture is strategically positioned to meet the precise needs of its customer while strengthening both companies’ roles as trusted global suppliers.

This partnership represents a significant milestone in the ongoing global expansion strategies of both organizations, highlighting their dedication to delivering high-quality, cost-effective, and timely solutions in North America.

Leadership Perspectives

“We are thrilled to take this important step toward expanding our footprint in the United States. With our joint resources and the strong confidence that Scout Motors has placed in both companies, success is our only goal.”
-AAPICO President and CEO Mr. Swee Chuan Yeap

“This project symbolizes the strength of collaboration. By combining the best of both companies, we are creating a world-class facility that will deliver value to our customer and long-term opportunities for the local community.”
-SODECIA CEO Mr. Rui Monteiro

“This announcement marks another important milestone as we work to build a robust, local supply chain for Scout Motors and create meaningful opportunities for South Carolinians. By investing in Orangeburg County, the Sodecia Aapico joint venture is bringing hundreds of new local jobs, strengthening this state’s thriving automotive ecosystem, and reinforcing our shared commitment to making high-quality Scout vehicles right here in South Carolina. We’re grateful to our partners and to the community for embracing our vision of growth and opportunity.”
– Scout Motors President and CEO Scott Keogh

“Today’s announcement by Sodecia Aapico JV is another clear vote of confidence in South Carolina’s world-class workforce, and it will further strengthen our booming automotive industry. This announcement is also the latest example of Scout Motors’ arrival driving additional investment and job creation across our state, bringing even more opportunities and prosperity for our people.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster

“South Carolina’s strong reputation as an automotive powerhouse continues attracting investments from global companies. We are thrilled to welcome Sodecia Aapico JV, along with this substantial $120 million investment, to Orangeburg County and look forward to building a partnership with the company as it launches its legacy in our state.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Today is a strong moment for Orangeburg County. Sodecia Aapico JV bringing 392 new jobs and $120 million investment to our community means real opportunity for the people who live and work here. We appreciate companies that see value in Orangeburg County – our workforce, our location and our commitment to support industry. We welcome Sodecia Aapico JV and look forward to the positive impact this project will have for our residents.”
-Orangeburg County Council Chairman Johnnie Wright

About Sodecia

SODECIA is a global Tier 1 supplier, headquartered in Portugal, and operating in over 40 locations across Europe, North and South America, and Asia to the automotive industry, specialized in engineering and manufacturing of innovative structural components, powertrain systems, and mechanisms.

SODECIA is an industrial group founded in 1980,headquartered in Portugal, operating, in over 40 locations across Europe, North and South America, and Asia, as a full-service supplier to the automotive industry, specializing in the development and production of stamped components and assemblies, including chassis, powertrain systems, body-in-white (BiW) structures, safety systems, tooling, access and authorization solutions and other equipment. As a trusted partner of major OEMs around the world, SODECIA is committed to delivering integrated product solutions that meet the highest standards of performance, continuously adding value to customer challenges, exceeding expectations, and contributing to their long-term success.

About AAPICO

Founded in Thailand in 1996 by, a Malaysian, Mr. Yeap Swee Chuan, AAPICO Hitech Plc. It is recognized as one of Thailand’s leading auto parts manufacturers and was listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand in 2002.

In addition to producing OEM auto parts, such as metal-forming parts, plastic parts, forging and machining parts, casting parts, and toolings, AAPICO also operates Mitsubishi and MG dealerships in Thailand, Honda and Proton dealerships in Malaysia, and engages in IoT connectivity and mobility businesses.

AAPICO Group’s esteemed clientele includes prominent and highly regarded automotive brands, as well as companies within related industries. These include Isuzu, Auto Alliance, Ford, Mazda, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Stellantis, Chery, Great Wall Motor, SAIC, BYD, Geely, Changan, VinFast and other global brands. AAPICO also supplies to Dana, American Axle, Continental, NTPT, Linamar, Magna, Schneider Electric, BorgWarner and other Tier 1 companies.

MEDIA CONTACT:

For Sodecia media inquiries, contact Mr. Armindo Jorge at
armindo.jorge@sodecia.com or call +351 937700182

For AAPICO Hitech PLC media inquiries, contact Ms. Pocharee Busrathepkul at
ir@aapico.com or call +66 2 613 1504

For Scout Motors media inquiries, contact Jamie Lovegrove at jamie.lovegrove@scoutmotors.com

AAPICO Forging Receives Recognition Award as “Supporting Organization for Driving Industrial Greenhouse Gas Management under the Project for Achieving Carbon Neutrality Goals in the EEC Area”

AH IR — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 01:42:00 +0000

On September 10, 2025, AAPICO Forging Public Company Limited, a subsidiary of AAPICO Hitech PLC, was honored with a Recognition Award, presented by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Deaw Kunpirak, Assistant to the President for Digital Transformation at King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) and leader of the project.

The project aims to support industries in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) in achieving Carbon Neutrality and Net-Zero GHG Emissions through the development of the Carbon Management Platform – a digital tool designed to help organizations systematically calculate, monitor, and manage their carbon footprint.

This recognition reflects AAPICO Forging’s strong commitment to advancing the Thai industrial sector toward a low-carbon economy, while reaffirming the company’s determination to achieve sustainable and resilient growth.

AAPICO Hitech Receives “SET ESG DNA” Certificate

AH IR — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 01:29:00 +0000

On August 26, 2025, Mr. Yeap Swee Chuan, President and CEO of AAPICO Hitech Public Company Limited, received the “SET ESG DNA” certificate from Dr. Soraphol Tulayasathien, Senior Executive Vice President of The Stock Exchange of Thailand. The certificate was awarded under the program “ESG DNA: Sustainability Knowledge for Employees at All Levels,” which aims to strengthen employees’ knowledge of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles across all organizational levels, enabling them to apply this knowledge in their work and contribute to the company’s sustainable development.

As part of the program, AAPICO employees completed key E-Learning courses, including Overview of Sustainable Business Development, Business and Greenhouse Gas Emissions, and Fundamentals of Business Sustainability. The certificate is granted to organizations where over 70% of employees complete the foundational sustainability courses, reflecting the company’s commitment to workforce development and its dedication to embedding a “Sustainability DNA” across all levels of the organization.

This achievement marks another significant milestone in AAPICO’s ongoing efforts to drive the company toward sustainable and resilient growth.

Declaration of Collaborative Efforts Among Government, Private Sector, and Civil Society to Prevent and Resolve PM 2.5 Air Pollution Issues.

AH IR — Sat, 28 Jun 2025 02:42:00 +0000

On June 27, 2025, Mr. Yeap Swee Chuan, President and Chief Executive Officer of AAPICO Hitech Public Company Limited (AAPICO) met with the Prime Minister and participated in a press conference entitled “Declaration of Collaborative Efforts Among Government, Private Sector, and Civil Society to Prevent and Resolve PM 2.5 Air Pollution Issues.” The event was organized to demonstrate a unified commitment to addressing the environmental challenges that affect public health.

As a supporting partner, AAPICO contributed 10 million THB to purchase microorganisms for farmers in Pathumthani to be used to decompose the dried rice straws instead of the traditional burning the rice straws, which creates the pollution in the air. This budget covers 100,000 rai of rice field.

This initiative reflects the company’s strong commitment to sustainable social and environmental responsibility, emphasizing the use of technology and innovation to tackle the PM 2.5 issues in Thailand.

AAPICO Hitech ranked among Southeast Asia’s top 500 companies by Fortune.

AH IR — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 08:10:10 +0000

AAPICO Hitech ranked among Southeast Asia’s top 500 companies by Fortune.

AAPICO Hitech PLC was ranked No. 335 on the Fortune Southeast Asia 500 for 2025, following its position at No. 303 in 2024. The list highlights the region’s largest companies by revenue and business impact.

AAPICO Hitech receives “A” Rating in SET ESG Ratings 2024

AH IR — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 01:19:00 +0000

Mr. Yeap Swee Chuan, President and CEO of AAPICO Hitech Public Company Limited or AH, — a leading company in OEM auto parts manufacturing, car dealerships and after-sales service, and IoT (Internet of Things) Connectivity and Mobility — announced that the company has been awarded an “A” rating in the 2024 SET ESG Ratings for the industrial sector by the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET). This marks the sixth year that AH has been included in the list of Thailand Sustainability Investment (THSI) or SET ESG Ratings.

AH is one of the 228 listed companies that is qualified by Stock Exchange of Thailand, reflecting its commitment to conducting business with a focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) responsibility. AH remains committed to fostering sustainable development while engaging all stakeholders, including employees, communities, and society, as integral parts of its business processes.

AAPICO Hitech Public Company Limited, TISTR and Agriculture in PathumThani Province jointly launched the “BioD I Group Microorganism” Reduce burning problems in agricultural areas to reduce PM 2.5 pollution

AH IR — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 02:21:42 +0000

On July 17, 2024, Mr. Yeap Swee Chuan, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Mrs. Teo Lee Ngo, Executive Director of AAPICO Hitech Public Company Limited, along with Dr. Chutima Eamchotchawalit, Governor of the Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (TISTR) under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, and Mr. Khomsan Yanawattana, Deputy Governor of Pathum Thani Province, jointly launched the “BioD I Group Microorganism” for decomposing rice straw.

The event “Stop Stubble Burning, Pathum Thani to be smoke free province” took place at the demonstration rice field in Chiang Rak Yai Subdistrict, Sam Khok District, Pathum Thani Province.

AAPICO Group, including its subsidiaries, supported the initiative by providing 15 bio-fermentation machines to be distributed across 7 stations in 7 districts: Sam Khok, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, Thanyaburi, Lam Luk Ka, Lat Lum Kaeo, and Nong Suea with the sponsorship of 4,280,000 Thai Baht. The objective of this project, driven by AAPICO Group’s sustainable policy in 3 aspects of ESG (Environment, Social and Governance), is to address the current PM2.5 air pollution and contribute to mitigating global warming. One of the key factors contributing to PM2.5 pollution is the traditional practice of farmers called “Stubble Burning” which is burning of rice straw and bran for weed control and soil preparation for subsequent planting seasons. By promoting the use of bio-fermentation machines, we hope to alter farmers’ behavior and reduce the environmental impact associated with burning agricultural residues, as a result, decreasing of CO2 emission (E : Environment), clean air and better well-being for Pathum Thani locals (S : Social).

AAPICO received the ISG Activity Award for FY2023 ESG Activities Sharing at ISG Annual General Meeting 2024

AH IR — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 02:16:00 +0000

On June 10, 2024, Mr. Yeap Swee Chuan (Center), the President and CEO of AAPICO Hitech Public Company Limited (“AAPICO”), received the ISG Activity Award for “FY2023 ESG Activities Sharing” at the ISG Annual General Meeting FY2024. This award is presented to three companies with outstanding ESG performance and has been selected to share their ESG practices among Isuzu suppliers at the Isuzu Supplier meeting on January 24, 2024.

AAPICO has been actively engaged in ESG activities for over 5 years, establishing the Sustainability Development Committee and obtaining certification for Carbon Footprint for Organization (CFO) according to the international standard ISO 14064-1:2018 across AAPICO Hitech and its subsidiary plants. ESG principles are deeply embedded in AAPICO’s vision, core values, and strategic plans, with the ultimate goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2048.

In addition, AAPICO has received recognition for its sustainable operations from various institutions which are SET ESG Rating, organized by the Stock Exchange of Thailand, to badge companies in the stock market with outstanding sustainability practices. In the year 2023, AAPICO was assessed at the A level. Furthermore, AAPICO has been selected to be part of the SETESG Index, organized by the Stock Exchange of Thailand, and the ESG100 Securities Group by Thaipat Institute, for the past 2 years, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable development and responsible business practices consistently upheld by the company.

CHANGAN and AAPICO Collaborate to Localize EV Components in Thailand

AH IR — Mon, 20 May 2024 07:01:30 +0000

On May 14, 2024, Ms. Mao Qiong Lin, General Manager of Changan Automobile Purchasing Center, and her team visited Mr. Yeap Swee Chuan, the president of AAPICO HITECH PUBLIC COMPANY LIMITED (“AAPICO”), at the AAPICO Ayutthaya plant. During the visit, Ms. Mao and her team presented a letter of nomination and a car model to Mr. Yeap, symbolizing the start of this cooperation.

Following this initial engagement, on May 16, 2024, Changan Automobile participated in Subcon Thailand 2024. Mr. Shen Xinghua, the Managing Director of Changan Auto Southeast Asia Co., Ltd, a manufacturer and distributor of Changan automobiles (CHANGAN), announced a partnership with Thailand parts manufacturers such as AAPICO, Thai Summit, and Summit. The collaboration includes a total procurement plan of more than 20 billion baht for the production of their first electric vehicle, which is set to begin production in Thailand at the start of next year.

CHANGAN has established three companies in Thailand, investing up to 8.8 billion baht in a production base in Rayong province. This facility will encompass the entire automotive manufacturing process, from welding and painting to battery assembly and final assembly. Phase 1 has an annual production capacity of 100,000 vehicles starting in the first quarter of 2025, which will increase to 200,000 vehicles the following year.

CHANGAN plans to launch more than 15 new electric vehicle models over the next five years for Thailand’s electric vehicle users. The company aims to increase the use of locally sourced parts to more than 60% and supports Thai parts manufacturers, making Thailand a supply chain hub for New Energy Vehicles (NEV) in the industry. The goal is for the supply chain to be able to serve both the domestic market and abroad, especially in Southeast Asia.

With Thailand’s rapid shift towards EV adoption, CHANGAN is eager to lead the country’s transition to a more sustainable automotive landscape.

On the left is Ms. Mao Qiong Lin, the Purchasing General Manager for Chanan. In the middle is Mr. Yeap Swee Chuan, the President and CEO of AAPICO HITECH PUBLIC COMPANY LIMITED. On the right is Mr. Guan Xin, the Deputy General Manager of Changan Auto Southeast Asia Co., Ltd.

Executive Director and QCC team from QUALITY CIRCLE FORUM OF INDIA visited AAPICO Hitech Public and AAPICO Hitech Parts at Hi-Tech industrial estate, Ayutthaya.

AH IR

On February 20, 2024, Mr. Srivastava (Executive Director) and a QCC team of total 153 people from QUALITY CIRCLE FORUM OF INDIA visited AAPICO Hitech PLC. and AAPICO Hitech Parts Co., Ltd in Bang Pa-In district, Ayutthaya province.

Mr. Srivastava said in the opening speech that Quality Circle Forum of India or QCFI was started in 1982 as a small organization and now they have more than 1,000 companies participating in adopting QCC, TPM, TPS, and Lean Manufacturing, they are growing faster. Also, Mr. Srivastava thanked AAPICO’s Top management for giving them an opportunity to visit our companies.

Additionally, Mr. Srivastava expressed his appreciation for AAPICO during the Q&A session. He commended our smooth preparation and was particularly excited and impressed by the video presentation showcasing our teamwork, recovery efforts, and management during significant flooding. Moreover, he praised our strong TPS practice at the Shop floor and OBEYA room, along with our Top management’s deep understanding of TPS principles.

Mr. Srivastava gave a gift to
Mr. Supornchai and Mr. Tiwa

Mr. Srivastava and a QCC team took a plant tour.