Govt backs electric vehicle drive

The government programs to increase the number of electric powered vehicle (EV) charging stations from 944 to 1, 394 countrywide by 2030.

The target has been set following a study by the Ministry of Energy on infrastructure needed to promote the production associated with EVs, said deputy government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek on Fri.

Also as part of the policy, the Electricity Generating Power of Thailand (Egat) and National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) have launched a centre for testing and certifying high-voltage chargers for EVs along with other devices, said Ms Rachada.

The centre, at the Thailand Science Recreation area in Pathum Thani, began testing and certifying 150kw chargers and other equipment on July 15. This implies local producers associated with high-voltage chargers no longer have to send their products overseas to be authorized, she said. “This not only cuts costs but will also accelerate development of new EV chargers, ” the girl said.

The centre might also help boost the domestic EV business. The government hopes to become a world leader during a call, she said.