Chinese EVs dominate Myanmar's Christmas motor show

YANGON -- Chinese electric vehicle (EV) brands such as JMEV, BAIC and LEAP Motor took center stage at a Christmas motor show in Myanmar this year.

The event, held in conjunction with a real estate exhibition in Yangon, from Dec 20 to Dec 22, welcomed Christmas with a showcase that drew crowds of visitors eager to explore the latest EV models.

"We organized the motor show to welcome Christmas," said Si Thu Aung, the event's organizer, who is also a manager from an auto company in Myanmar. "Most of the vehicles featured here are EVs from China. The brands included JMEV, BAIC and LEAP Motor," he said.

Regarding the larger percentage of EVs at the motor show and the use of Chinese EVs in Myanmar, Si Thu Aung said, "More people are using EVs in Myanmar. Chinese EVs are gaining popularity in Myanmar as they are affordable and do not require fuel."

He also said that most of the EVs entering Myanmar are from China, saying, "Chinese brands like BYD lead the market in terms of quality and technology, making them increasingly popular among consumers."

While the adoption of EVs in Myanmar is on the rise, Si Thu Aung also acknowledged the challenges of developing the necessary infrastructure, such as charging stations. "It will take time, but many companies are working on building the required infrastructure," he added.

Visitors at the event showed great interest in the displayed EVs. Ma Zar, a woman in her 20s, shared her excitement, saying, "I'd like to buy an EV. I came here to learn more about them." She added, "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 said.

Similarly, Han Yun Long, 41, spent time observing the LEAP Motor T03 model on display. "I want to buy an electric car because EVs are quiet, environmentally friendly, and eliminate the hassle of buying fuel," he said.

Ko Zay, a salesperson representing BAIC at the event, highlighted the popularity of certain models. "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," he said.

The EV market in Myanmar continues to grow since the Southeast Asian country implemented a one-year pilot project for electric vehicles in 2023, according to official reports.

According to Myanmar's Road Transport Administration Department, as of October 2024, the country had registered 5,816 electric cars, including three passenger buses.