Will South-east Asia’s ambitious EV targets drive the region’s sustainable future?

AS SOUTH-EAST Asian countries navigate the complex terrain of electric vehicle (EV) adoption, ambitious targets and transition pathways have become a focus of discussion. However, the critical question remains: are these targets sufficient to achieve the region’s long-term sustainability goals?

Both Singapore and Thailand have announced a target date to phase out the sale of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Other countries in the region have set alternative targets, including a minimum penetration rate for EVs.

Bold commitments are set out in the two countries. Singapore has aims for all new car sales and taxis to be of “cleaner-energy models” by 2030, with no more ICE vehicles on the roads by 2040. Thailand has committed to all new car sales being zero-emission by 2035.