Toyota has initiated a public transport pilot program in Thailand, deploying nine fully electric Hilux Revo pickup trucks modified into song-taews for public transportation. The initiative marks the latest effort by Toyota Motor Thailand to enhance its electric vehicle presence in the country amid increasing competition from Chinese EV brands.
During a launch event in Pattaya, Toyota Motor Thailand Executive Vice President Surapoom Udomwong unveiled the modified pickup trucks, which will operate on fixed routes within the city. The move is particularly significant as Pattaya, a prominent tourist destination located approximately 100 kilometers east of Bangkok, aims to reduce pollution levels.
Toyota’s foray into electric pickup trucks in Thailand coincides with growing investments from Chinese EV automakers in the region. Government subsidies and tax incentives have attracted significant Chinese capital, with companies such as BYD, Changan Automobile, Great Wall Motors, and Chery Automobile investing heavily in Thailand’s auto sector.
Toyota, which holds a substantial market share in Thailand, is set to deliver a dozen electric pickup trucks to Pattaya. Mayor Poramet Ngampichet expressed enthusiasm about the pilot program, stating that reducing pollution is a priority for the city. He also expressed hope that Pattaya’s entire fleet of 700 song-taews would eventually be converted to electric vehicles.
Toyota’s plans to mass-produce the battery Hilux pickup truck by 2025 have been announced, although the production location remains undisclosed. Pickup trucks are particularly popular in Thailand, accounting for approximately half of all vehicle sales. Isuzu, another prominent automaker in Thailand, has also announced plans to establish a manufacturing plant for the electric version of its D-MAX pickup truck, targeting both domestic and export markets.
