At a recent virtual press conference, Malaysia Automotive Association (MAA) President, Datuk Aishah Ahmad said that only 274 EVs were registered in 2021. Meanwhile, Thailand saw 1,643 EVs being registered in the same year.

According to sales data obtained by AutoFun TH from Thailand’s Department of Land Transport, MG is leading the way, with its entire EV range taking up the top two positions. Last year saw 660 units of the MG ZS EV and 436 units of the MG EP being sold in the Kingdom.

The two MG models combined form the majority of new EVs that were registered in Thailand in 2021. The third-placed Porsche Taycan only saw a mere 170 units sold throughout the year.

Also read: From RM 508k, 2022 Porsche Taycan is now tax-free in Malaysia

MG’s popularity among EV buyers lies in the value. Even though the ZS EV is due for a mid-cycle update which could be launched in the land of smiles in March 2022, the electric crossover held its position as the best-selling EV thanks to its affordable (for an EV, at least) price tag of THB 1,190,000 (~RM 151k).

Also read: Over 1,000 EVs registered in Thailand in 2020, MG ZS EV more popular than Tesla

As for the second best-selling EV in the country, the MG EP might be a conventional-looking station wagon on the outside but from THB 988,000 (~RM 125k), it’s a practical all-rounder with plenty of space and decent range (380 km).

The following is the full breakdown of models and their sales figures courtesy of AutoFun TH:

The sales figures include small EV microcars like the Wuling Mini EV and the Fomm One as well as commercial EVs like the BYD T3 and the Takano TTE-500. Yet, there is one notable EV that is missing.

Also read: Fan-favourite Wuling Mini EV could be assembled in Indonesia and exported globally

Ever since it was launched in Thailand in October 2021, the Ora Good Cat received around 2,000 bookings. However, deliveries only started around November and weren’t listed under 2021 sales by the Department of Land Transport.

Also read: Review: Ora Good Cat – Affordable Porsche EV look-alike? Here’s what the Thai media says

As such, sales figures for the Good Cat are expected to be reflected in the 2022 sales report. With prices starting from THB 989,000 (~RM 126k), the Good Cat could eat into the ZS EV’s market share.

Also read: Ora Good Cat on display at KLCC, 501 km range, circa RM 130k price possible

In spite of the Thai government giving incentives for EV ownership and encouraging more EV charging stations to be built, there are still a few hurdles for EVs to truly take off in the Kingdom. EVs are still relatively more expensive than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and the existing charging stations are mostly confined in cities like Bangkok.

Also read: Study shows that 3 in 4 Thais don’t think the current EV charging infrastructure is enough

As such, EVs right now mostly benefit the upper class or the urban folk. There are some initiatives made by the Thai government to encourage regular Thais to own an EV including offering electricity rebates and even using them as taxis in some cities.

Also read: Thailand’s TNB offers cheaper electricity tariffs to encourage more EV users in the Kingdom

Still, at least Thailand is moving in a right direction with its EV policies. Meanwhile in Malaysia, our government’s plans to encourage the use of EVs only benefit a few and is as confusing as the whole RFID fiasco.

Also read: Tax-free EVs? MAA clarifies condition of Sales Tax exemption for EVs in Malaysia