Thailand is making imported EVs much more expensive to sell. From Jan. 1, 2027, the excise tax on fully imported battery-electric cars rises from 10% to 35%. Extended-range EVs, now taxed at 15%, also move to 35%. Automotive World reports that the cabinet approved the plan on Nov. 3.
Who is affected
EVs built in Thailand keep a 2% rate. That shields BYD, Great Wall, MG and Changan on the models they already assemble there. Automotive World says the burden falls instead on brands with no local plant, naming Tesla, Volvo, Porsche and Audi. electrive says the rule targets cars imported as finished vehicles or without Thai-made components. It adds that firms promising new local investment can expect special rates.
Why now
Automotive World cites Federation of Thai Industries data: 161,532 passenger BEVs were sold in the first nine months of 2026, 31% of the market. Domestic BEV output over the same period was just 70,472. Commerce Ministry data put BEV imports at US$2.36 billion for January to September, with 96% from China.
Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa said the government «prioritizes supply chains and investors who have invested in Thailand», particularly Japanese companies. That quote is translated, as reported by Nikkei and cited by Automotive World.
Investment so far
electrive says approved investments across Thailand's EV sector had reached the equivalent of €4.1 billion by August 2026, spread over 189 projects.