Bangkok Motor Show 2025: EVs Rise, China Dominates, Auto Map Shifts

Chinese Automakers Take Center Stage

The 46th Bangkok International Motor Show, held from March 26 to April 6, 2025, at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, highlighted a turning point in the automotive world. With the presence of 54 automakers, including 41 car manufacturers and 13 motorcycle makers, the event accentuated a significant trend: the increasing influence of Chinese car brands on the Southeast Asian market.

This year, 16 Chinese car brands showcased their latest offerings, marking a pronounced shift in the region's automotive dynamics. Newcomers like Zeekr, Omoda, Jaecoo, Chery, and others emphasized Thailand's growing attractiveness to international automotive players, driven by supportive policies and a strategic location. For more insights, visit Thai Times.

Electric Vehicles Dominate the Exhibition

The 2025 show underscored a global automotive transformation towards electric vehicles (EVs). Chinese automakers particularly shone in the EV category, presenting models that align with sustainable global aspirations. The highlights included:

• BYD's Sealion 7: Positioned to capture the mid-range market with prices ranging from $33,100 to $36,000. Explore more details on Thai Times.

• Geely's EX5: Making its Thai debut with two variants, offering impressive ranges with its 60.22 kWh battery.

• IM Motors' LS6: Available as MG IM6 in Thailand, showcasing Premium RWD and Performance AWD variants, the latter boasting a 100 kWh battery.

• MG's S5 EV: With three trims, offering ranges up to 550 km with its advanced battery options.

• Aion V: Featuring a 75.3 kWh battery for a range of 602 km, this model further adds to the EV diversity.

These models reflect the innovative engineering and commitment to sustainability that characterizes the current Chinese automotive strategy.

Thailand's Strategic Position in the EV Market

Thailand's pivotal role as Southeast Asia's automotive hub is increasingly evident. Policies like tax incentives for hybrid manufacturing and credit guarantees for pickup trucks have attracted significant investments from Chinese EV manufacturers. The Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand forecasts approximately 80,000 battery electric vehicle registrations this year, marking a 6.5-fold increase from 2021.

The Thai government's proactive approach has led to stronger partnerships with international car makers, facilitating technological advancements and the entrance of cutting-edge EVs into their domestic market. Visit Thai Times for more.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite the promising trends, challenges such as high household debt and restricted credit access have affected domestic sales, which declined in February. However, industry leaders are optimistic, expecting a gradual recovery steered by robust exports and government support measures. More in-depth details can be found at Reuters.

The Bangkok Motor Show 2025 showcased how the automotive industry is embracing electric vehicle technology and highlighted how Chinese manufacturers are capturing a significant portion of the Southeast Asian market, reshaping the global auto map.

Thailand's emergence as a strategic focal point for EVs emphasizes its role in the evolving global automotive narrative, setting a precedent for future international collaborations and innovations.