How many electric vehicles have been imported into Laos?

As of April 2023, a total of 3,895 electrically powered vehicles had been imported into Laos, of which 1,773 were motorbikes. VIENTIANE, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Due to the spiraling cost of fuel, more and more people in Laos are switching to electric vehicles (EVs) with the aim of saving fuel costs and reducing air pollution.

How does Lao support the growing EV market?

To support the growing EV market, the Lao government has also implemented strategic policies to push forward the EV agenda.

How to prevent a drop in fuel imports in Laos?

To prevent a drop in fuel imports, the government is working to ensure that fuel importers have access to sufficient foreign currency to buy all the fuel that is needed for Lao consumers. In 2022, the number of electric vehicles in use was recorded at 3,201, comprising 1,428 cars and 1,773 motorcycles.

How has Laos facilitated EV adoption?

Leveraging its huge potential for electricity generation from renewable energy, Laos’ government has been proactively facilitating EV adoption by both loosening regulations and improving infrastructure. In 2022, Laos removed the import limit for EVs, as long as EVs met international quality, safety, maintenance, and waste management standards.

Should Laos use EVs?

Buavanh Vilavong, director general of Department of Industry and Handicraft under the Lao Ministry of Industry and Commerce, said the use of EVs in Laos is urgent to minimizing the budget for importing petroleum, adding that the import value of this product in Laos is relatively high, accounting for 20 percent of the country's total import value.

How often should EV batteries be replaced in Laos?

EV batteries must be replaced every seven to 10 years for smaller vehicles, and three to four years for larger EVs such as buses or vans. While Laos’ EV market is currently smaller than that of neighboring countries like Thailand and Vietnam, the government is proactively driving EV adoption.