Automobile

BOI approves Toyota’s THB1.49bn hydrogen Hilux project in Thailand, with production due from December 2027 for export markets.

Thailand plans to raise excise tax on fully imported EVs to at least 30% from January 2027 to encourage local production and parts sourcing.

Tesla unveils its long-delayed Roadster with SpaceX thrusters, sub-one-second acceleration and production scheduled to begin in 2028.

Thai suppliers may need costlier imported parts to meet carmakers’ contracts, while Toyota’s October 12 restart remains provisional.

Toyota and Honda halt vehicle production in Thailand as floods disrupt parts deliveries, with industrial losses estimated at more than THB1 billion.

Mercedes-Benz Thailand previews the all-new electric GLC with a WLTP range of more than 600km as it expands its product and customer strategy.

Japanese carmakers’ established Thai factories, supplier networks and hybrid expertise could become an advantage under a proposed three-tier electric vehicle (EV) tax overhaul.

Tata Motors targets lower costs and a 300,000-vehicle break-even point at JLR, which still plans five new models over the next year

Volkswagen has approved plans to cut about 50,000 more jobs worldwide, potentially doubling planned reductions to 100,000 as it overhauls models, factories and management

Toyota’s Vietnam investment is not a production shift from Thailand but highlights the race for new automotive investment in the EV transition.

The Excise Department is designing EV tax policy around investment, export-scale production and higher-value local content, with details pending.

Toyota’s US$283m Vietnam expansion adds electrified vehicle capacity but does not indicate relocation from the much larger Thai production base

Thailand plans a CO2-based vehicle tax overhaul covering EVs, hybrids, batteries and local content as it seeks to protect jobs and expand EV exports.