The government is considering a 6-billion-baht scheme to subsidise the purchase of 400,000 locally produced battery electric vehicle (BEV) motorcycles, in an effort to curb fossil fuel consumption and accelerate the country's energy transition.
Under the proposed ‘MTC EV++’ scheme, buyers of domestically manufactured BEV motorcycles would receive a direct subsidy of 17,000 baht per vehicle.
Pornchai Thiraveja, director-general of the Excise Department, revealed today that it has submitted the proposal for funding under a 2026 Royal Decree, authorising the Ministry of Finance to borrow up to 200 billion baht to address the energy crisis and foster clean energy adoption.
Pornchai emphasised, however, that the plan remains under review by the loan expenditure screening subcommittee and has not yet received final Cabinet approval.
The initiative aims to address the low adoption rate of electric two-wheelers in Thailand. In 2025, newly registered BEV motorcycles totaled 23,971 units, representing just 1.38% of all new motorcycle registrations nationwide.
High initial purchase prices, down-payment hurdles and limited access to financing remain major barriers, particularly for low- and middle-income earners, freelancers and delivery workers who rely on motorcycles for their livelihoods.
To streamline implementation, vehicle dealers will register sales and Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) in a central tracking system.
Eligible buyers will confirm their credentials prior to vehicle delivery, with registration data cross-checked automatically to prevent duplicate claims.
Once verified, manufacturers will submit compensation claims to the Excise Department. Payment will be disbursed via the Government Savings Bank (GSB) to reimburse manufacturers, who will provide the upfront discounts to buyers.
The proposal forms part of a broader energy initiative, alongside household solar power schemes, though funding approval remains pending.
The ministry is also considering a trade-in program.
