EVs take limelight at Bangkok motor show, spurred by subsidy as fuel prices surge

Electric vehicles took centre stage at the Bangkok International Motor Show this week, where thousands gawked at the latest fuel-efficient models that car manufacturers have to offer, as global fuel rices continue to soar due to the war in Ukraine. Attendants were intrigued by the additional perk of a 15 percent government subsidy for select EVs.

The show highlights the increasing demand for EVs after a slow start in Southeast Asia. Now Thailand has become a prime target for Chinese manufactures, who hope to sell their EVs at cheaper prices. The number of registered EVs doubled last year to nearly 4,000, according to CNA. But it’s still a drop in the oil pan compared to a total domestic car sales of 759,119 last year.

The year, government subsidies for EV buyers were debuted. Great Wall Motor’s ORA Good Cat EV drew special attention, with people lining up to take a look at the interior. The car is competitively priced, compared to EVs from other well-known manufactures. The company’s Thailand GM Michael Chong said more people will adopt EVs while fuel prices remain high and car prices remain low. It makes economic sense.

Thailand is currently the fourth-largest auto export and assembly hub in Asia for global brands like Honda and Toyota. The government sees EVs as essentials to maintaining its stake as a main player in Asia’s automaker industry, with plans for EVs to comprise 30% of its total auto production — or 725,000 vehicles — by 2030.

Great Wall Motor’s ORA Punk Cat EV on display at the 2022 Bangkok International Motor Show. Credit: GWM Thailand

SOURCE: CNA