The Bangkok International Motor Show is witnessing a surge of innovation as Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers showcase their latest models, including groundbreaking technologies like flying cars. Companies such as BYD, XPeng, and Great Wall Motors are making significant strides in the Thai market, challenging traditional leaders like Toyota, Isuzu, and Ford.
BYD, a prominent EV manufacturer, sold an impressive 30,650 electric vehicles in Thailand last year. They were closely followed by Neta, a brand under Hozon Auto based in eastern China’s Zhejiang Province, which sold 12,777 units. Other key players include Tesla, British brand MG, and Great Wall Motors.
Pratarnwong Phornprapha, Chief Executive Officer of the Rever Group, BYD’s distributor in Thailand, expressed optimism about the evolving market. “It’s very colorful now. Many brands come in. I think this is very good and it’s looking very bright for the whole market of EV cars, to be honest,” he said.
XPeng, a startup headquartered in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou, is entering the Thai market with confidence. Paramee Thingcharoen, the company’s Chief Marketing Officer, highlighted their focus on premium segments. “We target the premium segment, however, with the very high-tech products that we have to offer. We’re pretty confident that we have ample space to enter the market with that positioning, and we’re not quite worried about the competition,” she noted.
At the show, XPeng unveiled its XPeng AeroHT Voyager X2, a futuristic flying car concept. “We believe the future of mobility is not limited to only on wheels,” Paramee added. “It can be a unicorn you can ride on in the future. It’s unlimited.”
The presence of these Chinese EV makers at the Bangkok Motor Show signifies a dynamic shift in the automotive industry, not only in Thailand but across Asia. As they expand their global footprint, their innovative approaches and advanced technologies are set to reshape the market landscape.
