Cambodian government sets target to boost adoption of EVs to 30,000 by 2030

(MENAFN) The Cambodian government has set ambitious targets to significantly boost the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) by 2030. According to the National Policy on the Development of EVs 2024-2030 released on Thursday, Cambodia aims to increase the number of electric cars to 30,000 by 2030. Additionally, the country plans to expand the number of electric scooters to 720,000 and three-wheeler electric vehicles to 20,000 within the same timeframe.

The government articulated a clear vision for this policy, emphasizing the transformation of Cambodia into a nation with optimal electric vehicle usage to support sustainable development and enhance the well-being of its citizens. The policy highlights the growing popularity of EVs in Cambodia, attributing this trend to the lower fuel expenses and environmental benefits associated with electric vehicles.

The government provided a cost comparison to illustrate the economic advantages of EVs. It noted that using electric vehicles costs only 9,633 riels (approximately 2.35 U.S. dollars) for a distance of 100 kilometers, whereas petrol or diesel cars cost up to 35,723 riels (around 8.71 dollars) for the same distance. This stark difference in operating costs underscores the financial incentives for consumers to switch to electric vehicles.

As of now, Cambodia has officially registered a total of 1,614 electric cars, 914 electric scooters, and 440 three-wheeler electric vehicles. The country is also developing its EV infrastructure, with 21 EV charging stations currently in operation. The three most popular EV brands in Cambodia are China's BYD, Japan's Toyota, and America's Tesla, as reported by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport.

To further encourage the adoption of EVs, the Cambodian government has reduced import duties on electric vehicles since 2021, making them about 50 percent cheaper than traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. This reduction in import duties is a strategic move to make EVs more accessible to the Cambodian population.

Udom Pisey, an EV manager at Car4you Co., Ltd., which imports Letin Mengo EVs from China, highlighted additional benefits of electric vehicles. He pointed out that EVs have far fewer moving parts compared to petrol or diesel vehicles, resulting in lower maintenance and repair costs. This further enhances the appeal of electric vehicles as a cost-effective and sustainable transportation option.

Overall, the Cambodian government's proactive approach to promoting electric vehicles through supportive policies and incentives reflects its commitment to sustainable development and environmental conservation. By setting these ambitious targets and facilitating the necessary infrastructure, Cambodia is positioning itself as a forward-thinking nation in the realm of clean energy and green transportation.

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