Chinese electric vehicle (EV) brands took center stage at Myanmar’s Christmas motor show this year, with companies like JMEV, BAIC, and LEAP Motor showcasing their latest models. The event, held in conjunction with a real estate exhibition in Yangon from December 20 to 22, welcomed the festive season with a display of cutting-edge EV technology that drew crowds of enthusiastic visitors.
“We organized the motor show to welcome Christmas,” said Si Thu Aung, the event’s organizer and a manager from a Myanmar auto company. “Most of the vehicles featured here are EVs from the Chinese mainland. The brands include JMEV, BAIC, and LEAP Motor.”
The prominence of electric vehicles at the motor show reflects a growing trend in Myanmar. “More people are using EVs in Myanmar,” Si Thu Aung noted. “Chinese EVs are gaining popularity as they are affordable and do not require fuel.”
He emphasized the quality and technology of EVs from the Chinese mainland. “Chinese brands like BYD lead the market in terms of quality and technology, making them increasingly popular among consumers.”
Despite the rising interest, challenges remain in developing the necessary infrastructure. “It will take time, but many companies are working on building the required infrastructure, such as charging stations,” he added.
Visitors at the event expressed excitement about the EVs on display. Ma Zar, a woman in her 20s, shared her enthusiasm: “I’d like to buy an EV. I came here to learn more about them. I have never driven an EV before. I really like this pink one,” she said, pointing to a JMEV EV3 model.
U Kyaw Than, 66, attended the show with his wife and test-drove a LEAP Motor electric car. “I think it’s suitable for older people like us. It’s easy to handle and comfortable,” he remarked.
Similarly, Han Yun Long, 41, spent time examining the LEAP Motor T03 model. “I want to buy an electric car because EVs are quiet, environmentally friendly, and eliminate the hassle of buying fuel,” he said.
Representatives from the brands also highlighted the features attracting consumers. “We’re exhibiting both EVs and gasoline cars here,” said Ko Zay, a salesperson representing BAIC. “Visitors seem particularly interested in the ARCFOX Alpha T5 EV we displayed because its features include a karaoke system and a cold storage box.”
The EV market in Myanmar continues to grow since the Southeast Asian country implemented a one-year pilot project for electric vehicles in 2023, according to official reports. As of October 2024, Myanmar had registered 5,816 electric cars, including three passenger buses, according to the Road Transport Administration Department.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
