The popularity of electric vehicles, or EVs (Electric Vehicles), continues to grow in Thailand. In the past, many people may have viewed EVs mainly as an alternative for technology enthusiasts. Today, however, electric vehicles are available in a much wider range—from compact city cars and family SUVs to premium vehicles.
According to data from Thailand’s Department of Land Transport (DLT) compiled by JETRO as of August 11, 2026, a total of 144,189 BEVs were newly registered in Thailand from January to July 2026, representing an increase of 77.8% year-on-year. Passenger BEVs alone accounted for 126,439 registrations, up 88.2% compared with the same period of the previous year.
2026 EV registration data from JETRO, based on Department of Land Transport statistics
These figures show that electric vehicles are becoming an increasingly important part of Thailand’s automotive market. So, which five EV brands are among the best-selling in 2026, and which models are worth watching?
Note: This article uses passenger BEV registration figures as an indicator of market popularity. The figures cover January–July 2026 because the year has not yet ended, so rankings may change once full-year data becomes available.
Why Are Electric Vehicles Becoming So Popular?
The growing popularity of EVs is not driven by trend alone. Several factors contribute to their appeal, including operating costs, technology, and the wider range of models now available.
1. More EV Choices Are Available
Thailand’s EV market has become significantly more competitive in recent years. Consumers can now choose from brands such as BYD, MG, JAECOO, CHERY, GEELY, ZEEKR, GAC AION, DEEPAL, Tesla, XPENG, and many others.
This competition has created more options across different price ranges, from compact city cars to SUVs and premium electric vehicles.
2. Attractive Energy Costs
Another reason many people are interested in EVs is the cost of charging, especially for owners who can charge at home and choose lower-cost charging periods.
PEA VOLTA states that using a Time of Use (TOU) electricity meter can help reduce EV charging costs when charging during Off-Peak periods, when electricity rates are lower than during Peak hours.
From May 1, 2026, PEA VOLTA charging rates were approximately THB 4.90–7.90 per kWh, depending on charger power and the time of use.
PEA VOLTA EV charging rates for 2026
Actual savings will vary depending on the vehicle’s electricity consumption, electricity rates, driving distance, and charging habits.
3. No Tailpipe Emissions While Driving
Battery electric vehicles use electric motors rather than internal combustion engines. Therefore, they produce no direct tailpipe emissions while being driven.
This can help reduce local air pollution, particularly in heavily congested urban areas. However, the full environmental impact of EVs also depends on electricity generation, battery manufacturing, and end-of-life battery management.
4. Modern Technology and Safety Systems
Many new EV models are equipped with a wide range of advanced technologies, including:
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- 360-degree cameras
- Smartphone connectivity
- Large infotainment displays
- Mobile applications for vehicle control and status monitoring
These features make EVs attractive to consumers looking for technology, convenience, and modern driver-assistance systems.
5 Best-Selling EV Brands in Thailand in 2026
Based on passenger BEV registrations from January to July 2026, data compiled by JETRO from Thailand’s Department of Land Transport shows that Chinese manufacturers accounted for approximately 90.3% of Thailand’s passenger BEV market.
| Rank | Brand / Brand Group | Market Share, Jan–Jul 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | BYD / DENZA | 19.3% |
| 2 | CHERY / OMODA / JAECOO | 18.5% |
| 3 | MG | 14.0% |
| 4 | GEELY / ZEEKR | 11.5% |
| 5 | GAC AION | Approx. 11% |
Source: JETRO, based on Department of Land Transport data.
Which EV Models Had the Highest Registrations in 2026?
The following figures represent cumulative registrations from January to June 2026 and include only 100% battery electric vehicles, excluding HEVs, PHEVs, and other hybrid systems.
| Rank | EV Model | Registrations |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | JAECOO 5 EV | 11,288 units |
| 2 | BYD Dolphin | 8,696 units |
| 3 | BYD ATTO 3 | 7,357 units |
| 4 | MG S5 EV | 6,341 units |
| 5 | MG4 Electric | 6,018 units |
1. BYD
BYD remains one of the most popular EV brands in Thailand. When combined with DENZA, the group held approximately 19.3% of Thailand’s passenger BEV market between January and July 2026, the highest share in the market.
Popular BYD EV models include:
- BYD Dolphin
- BYD ATTO 3
- BYD Seal
- BYD Sealion 7
- BYD M6
From January to April 2026, the BYD Dolphin recorded 6,560 registrations, while the BYD ATTO 3 recorded 4,843 registrations.
BYD remains attractive to consumers because it offers a broad range of vehicles, from compact hatchbacks and SUVs to family-oriented EVs.
2. CHERY / OMODA / JAECOO
Another rapidly growing group in 2026 is CHERY, OMODA, and JAECOO, which ranked second in Thailand’s passenger BEV market with approximately 18.5% market share during the first seven months of the year.
Notable models include:
- JAECOO 5 EV
- JAECOO 6 EV
- CHERY V23
- OMODA C5 EV
The JAECOO 5 EV has been particularly successful. It recorded the highest EV registrations in Thailand during the first quarter of 2026.
By the end of April 2026, cumulative registrations of the JAECOO 5 had reached approximately 9,735 units.
3. MG
MG has been active in Thailand’s EV market for several years and remains one of the leading brands in 2026.
From January to July, MG accounted for approximately 14% of Thailand’s passenger BEV market, ranking third overall.
Popular MG EV models include:
- MG4 Electric
- MG S5 EV
- MG IM6
- MG MAXUS 7
- MG MAXUS 9
One of the most notable models is the MG S5 EV, which recorded 1,775 registrations in May 2026, making it the top-registered EV of the month. The BYD ATTO 3 followed closely with 1,769 units.
The MG4 Electric also remained popular, recording approximately 4,537 cumulative registrations from January to April 2026.
4. GEELY / ZEEKR
GEELY, together with ZEEKR, has emerged as one of the fastest-growing EV groups in Thailand.
From January to July 2026, GEELY/ZEEKR held approximately 11.5% of Thailand’s passenger BEV market, placing it fourth overall.
Notable models include:
- GEELY EX2
- GEELY EX5
- ZEEKR 7X
- ZEEKR 009
The GEELY EX2 became particularly popular in the middle of the year. In July 2026, it recorded approximately 2,640 registrations, ranking as Thailand’s No. 1 registered EV model for the second consecutive month.
This demonstrates how quickly EV rankings can change when new models with competitive pricing and equipment enter the market.
5. GAC AION
GAC AION is another EV brand that has achieved strong sales in Thailand, with several models targeting different customer groups.
Popular models include:
- AION UT
- AION V
- AION Y Plus
- HYPTEC HT
From January to April 2026, the AION UT recorded approximately 2,911 registrations, while the AION V recorded around 1,947 units.
Overall, GAC AION remains among the leading passenger BEV manufacturers in Thailand.
Is Tesla Still Popular in Thailand?
Although Tesla did not rank among the top five passenger BEV brands in cumulative registrations from January to July 2026, it remains one of the most recognizable and popular EV brands in Thailand.
The main Tesla models sold in Thailand are:
- Tesla Model 3
- Tesla Model Y
In May 2026, the Tesla Model Y recorded 779 registrations, while the Model 3 recorded 753 registrations.
During the first quarter of 2026, the Model 3 recorded approximately 1,431 cumulative registrations, while the Model Y recorded around 655 units.
Therefore, Tesla continues to have a strong presence in Thailand, although it was not among the top five brands by cumulative passenger BEV registrations during the period covered.
Which EV Models Are Popular in 2026?
Competition in Thailand’s EV market is extremely strong, and rankings can change almost every month.
| EV Model | Registration Highlight in 2026 |
|---|---|
| JAECOO 5 EV | Ranked No. 1 during Q1 |
| BYD Dolphin | Remains one of BYD’s most popular models |
| BYD ATTO 3 | Continues to achieve strong SUV registrations |
| MG4 Electric | Strong cumulative registrations in the hatchback segment |
| MG S5 EV | Ranked No. 1 in May |
| GEELY EX2 | Ranked No. 1 in June and July |
| AION UT | One of GAC AION’s key models |
| Tesla Model 3 | One of Tesla’s best-performing models in Thailand |
For example, the JAECOO 5 led the market during the first quarter, the MG S5 EV became No. 1 in May, and the GEELY EX2 moved into the top position during the middle of the year.
Advantages of Electric Vehicles
-
Lower Energy Costs
For drivers who can charge at home or choose appropriate charging times, the cost per kilometre can be attractive—especially when using a TOU electricity meter and charging during Off-Peak hours.
-
No Tailpipe Emissions
BEVs do not use internal combustion engines, so they produce no direct tailpipe emissions while driving.
-
Quiet Driving and Quick Response
Electric motors operate more quietly than internal combustion engines and can provide instant torque, giving many EV models strong acceleration.
-
Simpler Maintenance
BEVs do not require some of the maintenance items associated with petrol or diesel vehicles, such as engine oil, spark plugs, or exhaust-system servicing.
-
Advanced Technology
Many new EVs include driver-assistance systems, digital displays, 360-degree cameras, smartphone connectivity, and mobile applications.
Disadvantages of Electric Vehicles
-
Charging Requires More Planning
For long-distance journeys, drivers need to check the remaining battery range and the locations of charging stations along the route.
-
Charging Takes Longer Than Refuelling
Even though many newer EVs support DC fast charging, charging a battery generally takes longer than filling a conventional car with fuel.
-
Less Convenient Without a Regular Charging Point
People living in condominiums, apartments, or homes where a wall charger cannot be installed may need to rely more heavily on public charging stations.
-
Battery Condition Matters in the Long Term
The battery is one of the most important and expensive components of an EV. Buyers should therefore check the battery warranty, warranty conditions, and availability of service centres.
-
Resale Values Can Change Quickly
Strong price competition, frequent new-model launches, and rapid technology changes can make the resale value of some EVs more volatile than buyers may expect.
Which Electric Vehicle Should You Choose?
Sales and registration figures can help show which models are popular, but they should not be the only factors considered when choosing an EV.
Before buying, consider:
- Budget
- Daily driving distance
- Driving range per charge
- AC and DC charging speeds
- Passenger and cargo space
- Nearby service centres
- Vehicle and battery warranty periods
- Spare-parts and insurance costs
- Ability to install a home charger
- Expected resale value
For mainly city driving, compact models such as the BYD Dolphin, MG4 Electric, or GEELY EX2 may be worth considering.
For families looking for an electric SUV, options include the BYD ATTO 3, MG S5 EV, JAECOO 5 EV, AION V, and Tesla Model Y.
Summary: 5 Best-Selling EV Brands in Thailand in 2026
Based on the latest registration data from January to July 2026, Thailand’s EV market continues to grow significantly. Passenger BEV registrations reached 126,439 units, an increase of 88.2% year-on-year.
The leading brand groups by market share were BYD/DENZA, CHERY/OMODA/JAECOO, MG, GEELY/ZEEKR, and GAC AION.
At the model level, newer vehicles such as the JAECOO 5 EV, MG S5 EV, and GEELY EX2 are increasingly competing with established favourites such as the BYD Dolphin, BYD ATTO 3, and MG4 Electric.
When choosing an EV in 2026, consumers should not focus solely on which model sells the most. Price, driving range, charging speed, battery warranty, service network, and actual driving requirements should all be considered before making a decision.
References
1. Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)
EV registration data in Thailand, January–July 2026, compiled from Thailand’s Department of Land Transport.
JETRO – Passenger BEV Registrations January–July 2026
2. Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)
EV registration data for January–June 2026.
JETRO – BEV Data January–June 2026
3. AutoLifeThailand
Thailand 100% electric vehicle registration data by model.
AutoLifeThailand – EV Registrations Q1 2026
4. Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA)
EV charging information and PEA VOLTA charging rates.
PEA – EV Charging Information
5. PEA VOLTA
Information about TOU electricity meters and choosing suitable EV charging periods.
PEA VOLTA – TOU Meter for EV Owners
If interested in renting electric car, where should contact ?
1. Website : Electric car rental
2. Line ID : @exclusivecar
3. Tel : +66 21260718
4. E-mail : info@exclusive.co.th
How much does cost to rent EV car with Exclusive Car Rental ? Is there a delivery service ?
Electric car rental price table
|
EV's list |
Daily price |
Monthly price |
|
BYD Dolphin |
1,284 Baht |
19,260 Baht |
|
Nata V |
1,284 Baht |
19,260 Baht |
|
BYD Atto 3 |
2,461 Baht |
36,380 Baht |
|
MG Maxus 9 |
5,350 Baht |
85,600 Baht |
EV car rental service point
- Exclusive Car Rental Company does not charge a service fee
Location : No.489 Nonthaburi Road, Tha Sai Subdistrict, Mueang Nonthaburi District Nonthaburi Province 11000
- Outside delivery service fee: 1. Bangkok and Nonthaburi 1,070 baht 2. Samut Prakan 1,498 baht 3. Samut Sakhon 1,712 baht
- Promotion !!! Long-term electric car rental, free delivery
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