Toyota joins hands with Pattaya to tackle pollution with EV public transport

Toyota EV pickup trucks, the Hilux Revo model, have been modified into local public vehicles known as “Songtaew” for public transportation in the region.

This trial project will run through December 2025.

Aside from encouraging green mobility and sustainability, the decision points to the Japanese automaker's commitment to maintaining its dominant position in Thailand's vehicle sector, which is presently under threat from the rapid rise of Chinese EV manufacturers.

Toyota Motor Thailand executive vice president Surapoom Udomwong said the pilot project is a collaboration with Pattaya Municipality as part of its initiative to develop a sustainable and pollution-free model city.

He said the company would operate on a multi-pathway system, with Toyota providing a variety of green models to serve short, medium, and long distances throughout Pattaya and the surrounding areas, including U-Tapao Airport.

"Currently, there are tourists and citizens in Pattaya interested in using Toyota's alternative energy vehicle service, which has sent vehicles to participate in the project more than 4,500 times, with a total distance of more than 335,000 kilometres," he said.

He expected the company's cooperation would assist Pattaya accomplish its aim of lowering carbon dioxide emissions from the tourism industry. The project's overall aim is 4,225 tonnes by 2025.

Toyota recently announced its carbon neutrality mission, which entails dedicating its innovation and operations to supporting the global sustainable development goal.