PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand is stepping up consumer protection measures in the fast-growing electric vehicle market, with authorities ordering stricter standards for EV labels, advertising, and after-sales commitments amid growing complaints from buyers. Minister Supamas Isarabhakdi joined officials from the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), the Thai Industrial Standards Institute, and consumer organizations in inspecting EV showrooms in Bangkok, including BYD Hi-Class and Omoda & Jaecoo dealerships on Lat Phrao Road.
During the inspections, officials focused on whether showrooms clearly displayed essential consumer information, including battery specifications, driving range, warranty coverage, spare parts support, pricing, and promotional conditions. Supamas said rising fuel costs and economic pressure have pushed more consumers toward EVs, making stronger protections increasingly important. “For many people, buying a car is one of the biggest purchases of their lives,” she said, stressing that consumers must receive transparent and accurate information before making decisions. Authorities said legally compliant EV labels must clearly state real-world driving range estimates, testing conditions, battery type, warranty terms, vehicle specifications, manufacturer or importer details, country of origin, and official pricing.
Officials warned that unclear or incomplete labeling could mislead consumers, particularly regarding driving range performance under different weather or passenger conditions. The government is also tightening scrutiny of EV advertising and promotions, saying dealerships must honor all advertised benefits, including free gifts, delivery schedules, and promotional packages. The inspections come after the OCPB recently met with representatives from more than 20 EV brands to discuss consumer complaints and establish new standards for the industry.
One major initiative under development is a government-backed e-Book and comparison platform that would allow consumers to compare EV models, specifications, warranties, and performance data across brands through the OCPB mobile application. Authorities say the system is intended to create greater transparency and prevent buyers from being misled before making major financial commitments.
According to officials, common complaints from EV buyers include real-world driving ranges falling short of advertised figures, incomplete promotional offers, and long waits for replacement parts and repairs. Supamas said concerns over rapidly falling EV prices appear to be stabilizing as local production expands and market conditions become more balanced under investment policies supported by Thailand’s Board of Investment. (TNA)
