Thailand’s EV industry flourishing with three big players
Electric vehicles (EV) are fast becoming popular in many countries, including Thailand, as governments work towards protecting the environment and stimulating the economy.
Here are three companies that play an important role in Thailand’s EV industry:
MINE
Energy Absolute (EA) has set up several subsidiaries to support the trend of renewable energy, such as MINE.
MINE develops EVs, while its other subsidiary, Energy Mahanakhon, provides “EA Anywhere” charging stations.
So far, MINE has developed three EVs:
• MINE SPA1: An electric car that is 100-per-cent made in Thailand. Production to meet orders kicked off in the fourth quarter of 2020.
• MINEbus: Electric buses have been delivered to private firms for testing in smart cities, like Chachoengsao and Saraburi.
• MINE Smart Ferry: Electric ferries are currently plying down the Chao Phraya River between Pak Kret and Sathorn piers.
EA recently set up Amita Technology Thailand, the country’s first one-stop lithium-ion battery factory.
SHARGE
Thai firm SHARGE has 250 EV charging stations across Bangkok, Hua Hin, Pattaya and Khao Yai. It set up its first charging station in Bangkok’s Central Embassy shopping mall and then in Central Chidlom in 2018.
SHARGE aims to generate up to 3 billion baht in revenue and have the company listed in the stock market by 2025.
This year, SHARGE will cooperate with government and private agencies to set up charging stations in other provinces, including Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Rayong, Ayutthaya and Phuket.
Asia Cab
Asia Cab is both an automaker and an integrated taxi operator. It set up business in Bangkok last year and has been operating CABB – blue London cabs.
These blue cabs can be seen standing outside department stores or hospitals and can also be ordered by calling (02) 026 8888 or via a smartphone application. Fares start at 60 baht.
Asia Cab is working with SCG Chemicals, EA, Summit Auto Body Industry and Microsoft (Thailand) to develop an electric version of the blue London taxis. The EVs are expected to roll out in 2022.
