Thailand, Germany lift lid on future of transport and energy
The German Embassy has unveiled a glimpse of Thailand’s future with a new exhibition at Samyan Mitrtown in Bangkok.
“Moving and powering the future” envisions the country’s energy and transport as it makes the transition to a smart, integrated, resilient and climate-proofed future.
Launched with Germany’s GIZ development agency, the interactive exhibition is also boosting awareness about green energy and sustainable mobility solutions.
“Less is more – how can we reduce our ecological footprint and have a better life?” asked German Ambassador Georg Schmidt at Friday’s launch. “The exhibition gives some ideas for a green and prosperous future. We can all be a part of that change. We vote with our wallets every day."
Representing Thailand at the launch, Transport deputy permanent secretary Sorapong Paitoonphong acknowledged technological innovation would play a crucial role in transforming transport.
“We support the use of clean energy and the development of technology for sustainable, clean and green transport,” he said.
The country had launched a National Electric Vehicle Roadmap in recognition that transportation is currently the second largest cause of air pollution in Thailand and the majority of greenhouse gas emissions come from road transport, Sorapong added.
He said EV buses would be seen on Thai roads in the next few months, while tax on electric vehicles was being cut to encourage usage levels seen in Europe.
Another milestone for smart mobility in Thailand is Bang Sue Central Station, set to spark a renaissance in rail travel when it opens as the region’s largest railwat station in November 2021, he said. With a daily capacity of 600,000 passengers, the new station will be a hub for the BTS Skytrain, MRT, Airport Rail Link, high-speed rail linking Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and U-Tapao international airports, and Thailand’s first high-speed train line, being built from Bangkok to Nong Khai.
On Thailand’s energy transition, the Energy Ministry is now developing the National Energy Plan (NEP) for a cleaner, greener and sustainable future, said ministry official Poonpat Leesombatpiboon.
The exhibition runs on the third floor of Samyan Mitrtown until March 18. It then moves to Rajamangala University of Technology in Khon Kaen from March 23 to 27.
