Electric vehicles are gaining traction across Thailand, but clearer information, better infrastructure, and broader choices are key to accelerating adoption.
As the world transitions toward more sustainable living, Southeast Asia is beginning to feel the electric pulse of a future with cleaner transportation. In particular, electric vehicles (EVs) are fast emerging as a cornerstone of the region’s push to reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, and combat urban congestion. Consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious, and governments are stepping up efforts to support clean mobility.
According to Martin Knoss, Regional President of Bosch Power Solutions ASEAN, EV adoption across the region is gaining impressive momentum, with penetration increasing from 9% in 2023 to 13% in 2024. This growth reflects a shift in consumer mindset and policy support that is increasingly favouring green transport solutions.
Thailand stands out as a frontrunner in this transition. As Southeast Asia’s largest and most mature EV market, the country is at the epicentre of the region’s mobility revolution. The Thai government has set an ambitious target, forecasting a 40% increase in EV uptake by 2025—a signal of its commitment to fostering a more sustainable transportation ecosystem.
Yet while the outlook is promising, key hurdles remain. High upfront costs, limited charging infrastructure, concerns over battery performance, and uncertainty around resale value continue to deter many would-be EV owners. For global technology leader Bosch, a major player in the automotive and mobility space, addressing these pain points is essential for widespread EV acceptance. Without clearer infrastructure development and greater public education, the road to electrified mobility risks stalling before it truly takes off.
Paving the Way: Overcoming Barriers to EV Adoption
Thailand’s EV journey has been supported by government-backed incentives such as subsidies, reduced excise taxes, and customs duties on imported vehicles. These policies have helped drive sales and increase public awareness. But as Bosch points out, policy alone cannot carry the industry forward. More must be done to support consumers on their path to EV ownership.
One of the biggest barriers is “range anxiety”—the fear of running out of battery power before reaching a charging station. In a region where long road trips and rural travel are common, this fear is very real. Martin Knoss explains how today’s vehicles are better equipped to handle such concerns.
“Software has not only changed the way we drive, it has also transformed the way cars are engineered,” says Martin. “Accurate and up-to-date range prediction give EV drivers a transparent view of how far their battery will take them, and even identify charging stations along the route. This technology effectively minimises range anxiety and ensures the vehicle’s roadworthiness.”
Bosch is also investing in hardware innovation to address performance and efficiency. Advances in battery technology, particularly the use of silicon carbide in inverters, are extending the distance EVs can travel on a single charge while improving energy efficiency. These improvements are crucial in building trust in the technology, especially among first-time buyers.
However, technical advances don’t always erase doubts about long-term ownership. Many potential buyers remain cautious due to concerns about battery health over time and the future resale value of electric vehicles. This is where Bosch has taken a proactive approach.
To reduce the uncertainty surrounding used EVs, Bosch has introduced a battery certification service. This tool allows prospective buyers to assess the remaining life and performance of a used EV’s battery—providing transparency and peace of mind. By building confidence in the second-hand market, Bosch is helping to ensure that EVs are a viable option for a broader range of consumers, not just early adopters.
Clearing the Air: Busting EV Myths
Despite the advances and growing adoption, electric vehicles are still subject to a number of common myths and misconceptions—many of which continue to shape consumer attitudes.
One persistent belief is that EVs are vulnerable to water damage or unsafe during heavy rains and flooding. “This is a major misconception,” Mr Martin explains. “EVs are engineered to perform safely even in adverse weather conditions. The battery packs are insulated and encased in protective shielding. High-voltage components are similarly insulated to prevent short circuits. Most modern EVs even feature fail-safe systems that shut down electrical circuits automatically in the event of a collision or malfunction.”
Another concern is cost. While EVs were once seen as an expensive alternative to gasoline vehicles, this is quickly changing. With battery production scaling up and technology becoming more efficient, manufacturing costs are dropping. As a result, the upfront price of EVs is becoming more competitive—especially when combined with government tax breaks and lower running costs.
In fact, many consumers are starting to realise that over the lifespan of a vehicle, EVs can be more economical. Lower fuel costs, fewer moving parts, and reduced maintenance requirements all contribute to long-term savings and lower total cost of ownership.
Driving Forward: A Greener Future on the Horizon
With continuous technological advancements, a growing variety of EV models, and improving infrastructure, the path toward electrified mobility is becoming clearer and more accessible. In Thailand, the direction is unmistakable: forward.
Bosch forecasts that by 2030, carbon emissions from traffic, not only from EVs, but also other NEVs, are projected to emit around 40 per cent less carbon dioxide than their conventional counterparts. This represents a significant environmental benefit and underscores the urgent need for widespread EV adoption.
What’s more, the EV market is becoming increasingly dynamic. As more automakers enter the space and competition intensifies, consumers will benefit from broader choices and better value. From compact city cars to high-performance models, the market is evolving to meet every lifestyle and budget.
“Bosch has always believed in the transformative power of technology,” Martin concludes. “Our mission is to ensure that electrified mobility is not only efficient, but also accessible, reliable, and appealing to everyone in the Land of Smiles.”
Discover how EVs are driving the country toward a cleaner, smarter future. Bosch experts break down the tech, tackle common myths, and explore and discuss the road ahead for “sustainable mobility”.
To learn more about Bosch’s innovations in electric mobility, visit https://www.bosch-mobility.com/en/.