Core Insights - The International Energy Agency's report recognizes China's leading position in the electric vehicle (EV) market and highlights the significant role of Chinese EV exports in expanding into emerging markets, particularly in Thailand, where Chinese products hold a 75% market share [4][5][8] - Despite the high production capacity of over 500,000 EVs planned in Thailand, the annual registration of EVs is only around 70,000, indicating a potential oversupply issue for Chinese automakers in the Thai market [4][8][9] Industry Overview - Thailand is solidifying its status as a major EV manufacturing hub in Southeast Asia, with production capacity exceeding 500,000 units, largely due to the active investments of Chinese automakers [5][6] - The Thai government has implemented various incentives, including the EV 3.0 policy, which reduces import tariffs by up to 40% to encourage local production and aims for 30% of vehicle production to be electric by 2030 [5][6] Company Developments - Several Chinese automakers, including BYD, Neta, GAC Aion, Changan, and Great Wall, have established manufacturing facilities in Thailand, with planned capacities exceeding 600,000 units [5][6][7] - BYD's factory in Thailand is set to produce 150,000 units, primarily the Dolphin model, while GAC Aion's facility will start with a capacity of 50,000 units, expanding to 100,000 [6][7] - Changan's factory has an initial capacity of 100,000 units, with plans to increase to 200,000, and it will also produce various models including hybrids and fuel vehicles [6][7] Market Challenges - The Thai automotive market is experiencing a decline, with a projected 2024 vehicle sales drop of 26.09% to 572,700 units, and a 20% decrease in production, marking a four-year low [8][9] - The electric vehicle registration in Thailand is expected to decline by 8.1% in 2024, marking the first drop since 2020, despite the strong performance of Chinese brands like BYD [8][9] Future Outlook - Industry experts warn of a potential oversupply crisis in the Thai EV market, with production capacity expected to exceed market demand by over 60% [9][10] - However, there is optimism regarding the long-term potential of the Thai and Southeast Asian markets, with predictions of a 1.5% to 2.5% growth in automotive production and sales in 2024 [9][11] - Chinese automakers are encouraged to deepen localization efforts beyond just establishing factories, focusing on long-term strategies that include product planning and supply chain development [11][12]

Core Points - The article discusses the experience of purchasing a house in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture, and the subsequent decision to relearn driving for better mobility in the area [1][2] - The author emphasizes the challenges of public transportation in mountainous regions and the necessity of driving for convenience [2][5] - The narrative highlights the personal growth and new experiences gained through the driving training process, including overcoming fears and achieving a driving license at an older age [6][7] Summary by Sections Purchase and Initial Experience - A house named "Yatsugatake Mountain Residence" was purchased in June 2023, with a focus on accessibility to public transport [1] - The journey from Tokyo to Hokuto took significantly longer than expected due to transportation delays, prompting the need for a car [1] Decision to Relearn Driving - The decision to relearn driving was made due to the inadequacy of public transport in the area, especially on mountainous roads [2] - The local driving school was fully booked for summer classes, necessitating a quick enrollment in a two-week intensive course [2] Driving Training Experience - The training involved intense practical sessions, leading to physical and mental exhaustion, but also moments of joy and camaraderie with fellow students [3][6] - The author faced challenges such as navigating difficult road conditions and overcoming anxiety during driving practice [4][5] Achievements and New Beginnings - Successfully passing the driving test after 14 days of training marked a significant personal achievement [6] - The decision to purchase a new car, specifically a BYD ATTO 3, was influenced by safety considerations and personal experiences [6] - The author reflects on the transformative impact of driving on lifestyle, enabling new experiences and interactions in the Hokuto area [7][8]