Myanmar's Christmas motor show this year was electrified by the dominant presence of Chinese electric vehicle (EV) brands such as JMEV, BAIC, and LEAP Motor. Held in Yangon from December 20 to 22 alongside a real estate exhibition, the event attracted numerous visitors eager to explore the latest in EV technology.
Si Thu Aung, the event's organizer and a manager from a local auto company, highlighted the significance of Chinese EVs at the show. \"We organized the motor show to welcome Christmas. Most of the vehicles featured here are EVs from China. The brands included JMEV, BAIC, and LEAP Motor,\" he explained.
The surge in EV adoption in Myanmar can be attributed to the affordability and fuel-free benefits of Chinese EVs. Si Thu Aung noted, \"More people are using EVs in Myanmar. Chinese EVs are gaining popularity as they are affordable and do not require fuel.\" Brands like BYD are leading the market with superior quality and technology, making them a favorite among consumers.
Despite the growing interest, challenges remain in developing the necessary infrastructure, such as charging stations. \"It will take time, but many companies are working on building the required infrastructure,\" Si Thu Aung added.
Visitors at the event expressed strong interest in the EVs on display. Ma Zar, a young woman in her 20s, shared her enthusiasm: \"I'd like to buy an EV. I came here to learn more about them. I have never driven an EV. I really like this pink one,\" pointing to a JMEV EV3 model.
U Kyaw Than, 66, attended the show with his wife and test-drove a LEAP Motor electric car. \"I think it's suitable for older people like us. It's easy to handle and comfortable,\" he remarked.
Similarly, Han Yun Long, 41, spent time observing the LEAP Motor T03 model. \"I want to buy an electric car because EVs are quiet, environmentally friendly, and eliminate the hassle of buying fuel,\" he said.
BAIC's representative, Ko Zay, highlighted the popularity of certain models, stating, \"We're exhibiting both EVs and gasoline cars here. Visitors seem particularly interested in the ARCFOX Alpha T5 EV we displayed because its features include a karaoke system and a cold storage box.\"
The EV market in Myanmar has been expanding since the country launched a one-year pilot project for electric vehicles in 2023. According to Myanmar's Road Transport Administration Department, as of October 2024, the country had registered 5,816 electric cars, including three passenger buses.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
