The electric vehicle (EV) market has seen a notable upswing in Cambodia in recent years, reflecting a global trend towards sustainable transportation. An increasing number of EVs can be seen throughout the country, particularly in cities such as Phnom Penh, in a transition that has seen a rise in EV imports, greater domestic adoption, the emergence of international EV brands, and the expansion of charging infrastructure across the Kingdom.
As of August 2024, Cambodia registered a total of 3,676 electric vehicles, according to Minister of Public Works and Transport Peng Po Nea, who disclosed the data at the National Policy Dissemination Workshop on Electric Vehicle Development.
This significant increase from previous years indicates a growing acceptance and interest in electric mobility among Cambodians, reflecting the increasing focus placed on environmental sustainability.
Popular EV Brands in Cambodia
The Cambodian EV market has seen a diverse range of brands gaining traction. Among these, China’s BYD, Japan’s Toyota, and Tesla, America’s leading producer of EVs, have emerged as the most popular choices among consumers.
In Cambodia, BYD leads the market with over 650 EVs registered, followed by Toyota with 261, and Tesla with 186 as of June 2024, according to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport. The preference for these brands comes from widespread consumer trust in these manufacturers and their commitment to quality and innovation in the EV sector.
Expansion of Charging Infrastructure
To support the growing number of EVs, Cambodia has been actively developing its charging infrastructure. By August 2024, the country had established 21 EV charging stations nationwide.
This expansion is crucial in alleviating range concerns among potential EV buyers and ensuring the practicality of EVs for daily use in the country. The government’s proactive approach in collaborating with private sectors to set up these stations demonstrates a commitment to fostering an EV-friendly environment.
Government Initiatives and Future Outlook
The Cambodian government has set ambitious targets to promote electric mobility as part of its environmental sustainability goals. Aiming for 40% of cars and urban buses and 70% of motorcycles to be electric by 2050, the government has implemented policies to encourage EV adoption. Notably, since 2021, import duties on EVs have been reduced to about 50% lower than those on traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
This fiscal incentive is designed to make EVs more accessible to the general population and stimulate market growth.
Cambodia’s journey towards electric mobility is gaining momentum, driven by strategic government policies, increasing consumer interest, and the development of essential infrastructure. The collaboration between public and private sectors plays a pivotal role in this transition, paving the way for sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation in the years to come.
