Electric Cars & Tuk-Tuks Providing Alternatives for Urban Transport
Electric vehicles (EVs) offer more than just a sleek, modern ride as they begin to replace traditional combustion engines on Thailand’s roads. This shift signals a powerful response to the country’s air pollution crisis, a bold step toward lowering carbon emissions, while encouraging technological innovation across Southeast Asia. From electric tuk-tuks weaving through traffic-choked alleys to cutting-edge factories churning out battery-powered exports, Thailand’s embrace of EVs is not just a trend. It is a transformation toward a cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable future.
In April 2025, Thailand marked a historic milestone by exporting its first-ever batch of electric vehicles (EVs)—660 units, accounting for 1.43 % of the month’s total auto exports—even as overall vehicle production hit a 44‑month low of 104,250 units. As part of its EV roadmap, “30@30,” the Thai government aims to produce 675,000 electric two-wheelers (EW2) annually by 2030. The government is offering a minimum three-year corporate income tax exemption for EV bike battery manufacturers, with the potential for additional tax incentives in the near future to support this goal.
Transportation generates nearly 30% of Thailand’s greenhouse gas emissions, contributing over 80 million metric tons of CO₂ annually. Without targeted interventions, emissions could rise to 110 million tons by 2030 and more than double by 2050. Electric mobility offers a practical and scalable solution. Research from the Government of Japan, conducted in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme and Chulalongkorn University, confirms that EV adoption not only reduces net carbon emissions but also improves urban air quality.
One promising example of how EVs are reshaping urban mobility is Muvmi, a Thai ride-sharing startup launched in 2017 with support from the National Innovation Agency. MuvMi provides rides via electric tuk-tuks through a mobile app, designed to offer convenient first- and last-mile connections to Bangkok’s mass transit system.
MuvMi emerged in response to changing urban lifestyles, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, when demand grew for more flexible and environmentally friendly transport. Initially popular with university students and young professionals, the service has since attracted a broader base of city dwellers, office workers, expats, tourists, and shift workers who need reliable transport outside peak hours. Much of its growth has come organically, through word of mouth within the communities it serves.
Since its inception, Muvmi has contributed to cutting more than 4000 tons of CO₂ as certified by the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization. The vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, helping reduce harmful PM2.5 levels and noise pollution in congested urban areas.
“We believe good urban mobility should meet the real needs of city dwellers while minimizing environmental impact. That means encouraging public transit use and supporting operators to adopt clean energy,” says Supapong Kitwattanasak, Co-Founder of Muvmi. He adds that policymakers and other stakeholders must also rethink infrastructure development, moving away from top-down, capital-intensive approaches toward scalable, community-based solutions.
Today, MuvMi operates a fleet of over 800 electric tuk-tuks across key Bangkok neighborhoods and employs around 700 drivers, many of whom previously worked in conventional public transport. The company has established a driver training academy and works with community vocational schools to build skills and provide public driving licenses, while ensuring drivers receive social security and employment benefits. Looking ahead, MuvMi is enhancing its app with AI-powered systems to optimize route planning and offer new ride-sharing options, further improving accessibility and efficiency.
Thailand’s EV momentum is accelerating, and MuvMi is an example of how grassroots innovation can support national sustainability goals. The adoption of EV technology not only promises cleaner air and a more sustainable urban future but also drives job creation and inclusive mobility. To sustain this progress, continued support from government policies and close collaboration between the public and private sectors will be essential.
