Thailand is on a rapid path to becoming a pivotal center for smart and eco-friendly transportation by forging key partnerships with top electric vehicle manufacturers and technology firms from China, Japan, and Europe. The Board of Investment (BOI) recently organized the “Thailand Driving Toward Smart and Green Mobility” symposium during SUBCON Thailand 2026 in Bangkok, uniting global automotive leaders, investors, and industry specialists to explore the future of the EV sector and cutting-edge automotive technology.
The symposium attracted over 500 attendees, including top executives from notable companies like China EV100, BYD, Bosch, and Isuzu. The discussions centered on the global shift towards EVs, smart transport systems, clean energy solutions, and state-of-the-art automotive technologies, including artificial intelligence, autonomous driving, and digital mobility platforms.
BOI Secretary-General Narut Teodsathirasak emphasized that Thailand is not merely adapting to global automotive trends but actively influencing the future of the industry within Southeast Asia. He underscored that the automotive sector is stepping into the ACES era—Autonomous, Connected, Electric, and Shared Mobility technologies. He highlighted that software systems, battery management technology, electronics, and intelligent driving are vital for competitiveness in today's automotive landscape.
The Thai government remains committed to fostering investments in electric vehicles and associated sectors to enhance national energy security and boost long-term economic resilience. From 2017 to March 2026, investment applications exceeding 182 billion baht for the EV sector have been recorded. Such investments encompass electric vehicle production, battery manufacturing, charging infrastructure, and advanced automotive components, solidifying Thailand’s status as a prominent EV production hub in ASEAN.
Industry figures at the symposium stressed the necessity of creating a complete EV ecosystem within Thailand. Experts advocate for the expansion of charging infrastructure, modernization of production technologies, heightened clean energy utilization, and the cultivation of a skilled workforce to usher in the next automotive evolution. Several leaders emphasized stronger collaboration among tech firms, energy suppliers, and automotive manufacturers.
Representatives from BYD Auto Thailand mentioned that escalating energy costs and global fuel challenges are fast-tracking Thailand’s transition to electric mobility. They urged the Thai government to continue backing Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) to facilitate local parts manufacturers in adapting to new technologies while preserving the integrity of Thailand’s automotive supply chain.
Executives from Bosch and Autoliv noted that advancements in software, electronics, AI, and smart safety technologies are swiftly transforming the global automotive landscape. They acknowledged Thailand’s robust manufacturing capabilities and a well-established supplier network but insisted that further investment in innovation and cutting-edge technology is vital for maintaining competitive edge in the global market.
China EV100 President Zhang Yongwei forecasted that by 2030, electric vehicles may constitute nearly 45 percent of global vehicle sales. He portrayed EVs as more than mere transportation tools; rather, they are evolving into technological platforms integrating AI, clean energy, digital services, and connected mobility systems. He further emphasized that international collaboration in fields such as battery technology, semiconductors, autonomous driving, and software will dictate the automotive industry’s future.
The Thai government is firmly convinced that smart and green mobility will significantly contribute to sustainable economic progress, energy security, and environmental preservation. They also aim to position the country as a comprehensive manufacturing hub for future vehicles while integrating Thai businesses seamlessly into global supply networks over the coming decade.
