The Thai government is making a huge push towards a sustainable future by promoting the use of electric vehicles.
It has approved a budget of $AU118,000 (THB3 million) to subsidise the price of electric vehicles in the country.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has also installed free-to-use electric vehicle charging stations at Benjakitti Park, Bangkok to promote the shift to reducing carbon emissions.
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The BMA plans to install further charging stations across 10 more public car parks and at government organisations in order to promote the move towards eclectic vehicles.
A spokesperson for Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha says the Thai government aims to reduce their environmental impact.
In a statement, they said: “The government has a policy to promote Thailand's electric vehicles and to reduce CO2 emissions to make Thailand the centre of production of electric cars and motorcycles in the ASEAN region.
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“To be a leader in the automotive industry, (moving towards) clean energy and cutting-edge technology will reinforce Thailand's Detroit of Asia status and be a step forward in accordance with the national strategic plan to generate income and increase the country's competitiveness.”
The initial budget could also be expanded if the demand for electric vehicles increases.
Two car manufacturers in Great Wall Motor and MG Camp have agreed to join the project, with a total of 2,000 electric vehicles available at a price approved by the Thai government.
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Top brands such as Benz, BMW, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Foxconn, and Neta have also expressed interest in joining the project.
The move came after a survey held at Bangkok’s 43rd annual International Motor Show indicated a large number of people would be interested in converting to using electric vehicles.
In late 2021, $3,000 cash rebates for the purchase of electric vehicles was introduced to states around Australia.
South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland all announced the move, while the ACT announced free registration for electric vehicles.
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In the United Kingdom, grants of up to AU$5,500 (GBP3,000) are offered, as well as exemption from the vehicle excise duty.
Jayden Collins