Transport
Thailand Plans Transition to Electric Public Buses
Deputy Prime Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn aims to secure funding for a nationwide shift to electric public transport.
On August 11, 2026, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn announced plans to propose the use of a 200-billion-baht emergency loan decree to accelerate the transition of public buses to electric vehicles (EVs). According to Khaosod Online, the proposal is expected to be submitted this month following discussions with the Ministry of Finance.
The initiative aims to modernize the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) fleet. Officials anticipate the arrival of approximately 2,320 electric buses by mid-2027, with the long-term goal of replacing all combustion-engine BMTA buses with electric models. Furthermore, the Ministry is exploring the possibility of extending this transition to inter-provincial public transport services, potentially utilizing the same emergency loan budget to fund these upgrades.
For residents and travelers, this transition could eventually lead to a quieter, cleaner public transportation experience in Bangkok and on long-distance routes. However, the plan remains in the proposal stage. Key details, including the final approval of the budget, the specific timeline for inter-provincial implementation, and how this shift might impact current ticket pricing or service frequency, have yet to be confirmed by the government.