Automakers from China, Japan and other countries are promoting their electric vehicles in Thailand, as consumers shift away from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles due to rising oil prices and concerns over potential fuel shortages.

The annual Bangkok International Motor Show, which opens on 25th March and runs through April 5th, reflects this trend, with a local distributor reporting an increase in EV orders in recent weeks.

"It's a happy problem," Kullachart Chutichawakul, General Manager of Thonburi Neustern, the distributor of China's Geely, told media sources on 23rd March during the motor show's media preview. He stated that more customers are turning to EVs due to the oil crisis linked to tensions involving Iran. "They don't want to be hassled with surging oil prices and oil shortage."

According to Kullachart, bookings for the new compact Geely EX2 increased from January to March.

To respond to rising demand, automakers, particularly Chinese companies, are offering EVs priced between THB 600,000 and THB 800,000 (US$ 18,600-24,800) at the event, below earlier expectations of around THB 1 million. SAIC Motor, which owns the MG brand, has launched the MG S5 EV Plus at THB 619,900.

Japanese brands, which previously placed less emphasis on EVs, are increasing their focus on electric models compared with previous years. Toyota Motor has launched the bZ4X, an electric SUV, while Mazda is showcasing the Mazda 6e, an electric sedan, at the event.

"We are not switching our interest immediately from ICE cars to EVs," Thee Permpongpanth, CEO of Mazda Sales Thailand, told media sources. "However, it cannot be denied that the current oil crisis is likely to bring more EV customers."

Noriaki Yamashita, President of Toyoda Motor Thailand, stated: "We are not focused on a particular trend. However, various types of vehicles are being offered to match customer demand."

The shift towards EVs is occurring across the region, with the Middle East crisis tightening oil supplies in several countries. Vietnamese manufacturer VinFast is offering discounts on its EVs in multiple Asian markets to attract customers.

Thailand, like many other countries, is experiencing fuel supply constraints. With drivers queuing at stations and facing purchase limits, some have begun stockpiling fuel, further adding pressure to supply.

Despite the increased demand for alternatives to ICE vehicles, automakers are monitoring developments in the Middle East and continue to offer non-EV options in case conditions stabilise and oil supply routes improve.

Vudhigorn Suriyachantananont, Vice President of GWM Thailand, stated that the company has introduced its ORA 5 SUV with two powertrain options: a hybrid and a battery electric version. It is also offering a limited-edition Tank 300 aimed at diesel customers. The model is being launched at the show, with limited production.