Delegation learns latest trends in environmental sustainability

During the mission, delegates were shown the latest technologies designed to minimize the impact that automobiles have on our natural environment while still meeting the needs of the modern motorist, passing on knowledge that will be vital for the government sector when it comes to formulating future policies and economic plans relating to the country’s electric vehicle industry. 

“With new technologies come new possibilities for enhancing environmental sustainability, and the purpose of this trip was to demonstrate that these new technologies exist and to explore how they might be put to use in transforming the industry,” TEBA executive director Hugh Vanijprabha said. “Thailand’s auto-industry has developed in leaps and bounds over recent years, becoming the 10th largest producer in the world. If Thailand is to maintain and strengthen this position, electric vehicles could be adopted as another champion product for Thailand.” 

Government delegates were able to see and experience the newest technological offerings from automotive companies including BMW with its i3. The car has been designed from the very beginning as an EV and is based on a highly efficient eDrive powertrain, offering zero-emission mobility. 

“Extensive road tests conducted as part of the ‘Project i’ proved that the car’s range of 130 to 160 kilometres is adequate to comfortably meet day-to-day mobility needs around the world,” said Krisda Utamote, director for corporate communications, BMW Group Thailand. “The consistently sustainable design of the BMW i3 makes it the perfect vehicle for urban environments, particularly for megacities such as Bangkok. Driven by pure electric power and customised for the requirements of sustainable and emission-free mobility, it embodies an intelligent form of travel. The vehicle represents an integrated and harmonious concept in which every detail has been optimised to its purpose,” he added. 

“Electric mobility is fast becoming a reality,” Bosch Thailand managing director Peter Vandlik said. “Software plays a crucial role in intelligently networking charging stations and enabling other value-added services such as roaming across various charging service providers. As the appointed infrastructure service provider for the current EV test-bed in Singapore, Bosch is responsible for the design and development of the charging infrastructure as well as its implementation, operation and maintenance. We have been involved in the area of electric mobility for several years now, where we offer easy-to-use, comprehensive solutions for service providers, EV operators and manufacturers, as well as fleet operators.”