BYD Overtakes Toyota in Bangkok Motor Show Orders: A Sign of Thailand's EV Future?
By Team Dailyrevs April 16, 2025
BYD Overtakes Toyota at the 2025 Bangkok Motor Show — And It's a Bigger Story Than You Realize
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BYD recorded the most bookings at the Bangkok Motor Show, outpacing Toyota for the first time.
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Demand for EVs is on the rise in Thailand, with Chinese manufacturers rapidly gaining market share.
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Government subsidies and shifting consumer preferences are accelerating the transition from ICE vehicles to EVs.
Tipping Point for Thailand's Auto History?
Something quietly momentous occurred at the 2025 Bangkok International Motor Show — and unless you were paying attention, you might have missed it.
Chinese EV behemoth BYD booked more vehicle orders than Toyota, the long-standing king of Thailand’s auto industry. That’s not just a newsflash — it’s a clear signal. A subtle yet powerful message: Thailand’s car buyers are turning a corner, and it’s electric.
The Numbers Tell the Story
Figures published by multiple outlets confirm BYD’s strong performance at the show:
| Brand | Vehicle Bookings (approx.) | Highlight Models |
|---|---|---|
| BYD | 5,300+ | Dolphin, Seal, Atto 3 |
| Toyota | 4,500+ | Hilux Revo, Yaris, Corolla |
| Honda | 3,000+ | City, HR-V, Accord |
| GAC Aion | ~1,500 | Aion Y Plus, Aion V |
| Denza (BYD) | ~800 | Denza D9, Denza N7 |
| Deepal (Changan) | ~600 | Deepal SL03, Deepal S7 |
Note: Exact figures may vary slightly by source, but the ranking holds steady.
BYD’s ascent is as much about timing as it is about strategy.
DENZA D9 Image Gallery
So, Why Did BYD Take the Crown?
1. Huge Local Incentives
Thailand’s government has pushed aggressively for EV adoption through tax rebates, import duty reductions, and exclusive benefits for automakers producing EVs locally.
2. Price-Performance Advantage
BYD’s highly competitive pricing — especially for entry-level models like the Dolphin — makes EV ownership more accessible than ever. Combined with their Blade Battery technology, buyers are offered value and confidence in one package.
3. Expanded Product Lineup
Unlike some automakers who showcased just one or two models, BYD brought a diverse portfolio: hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, and premium offerings through its sub-brand Denza. A lineup for every need.
Toyota: Still Strong, But Not Invincible
Toyota remains a brand of trust in Thailand. But its slower push toward full electrification might become its Achilles' heel.
While rivals led with EVs, Toyota's presence was still centered around ICE and hybrid vehicles — efficient, yes, but no longer viewed as the future of personal mobility.
The Chinese Are Here — and They're Not Slowing Down
The Bangkok show made one thing clear: Chinese automakers are not just participating — they’re leading.
Outside of BYD, brands like GAC Aion and Deepal drew noteworthy sales, reinforcing that their growing presence isn’t incidental — it’s strategic and gaining traction fast.
“We’re seeing the strongest shift in automotive buyer interest in years, and EVs are at the center of it.”
— Mr. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary General, Board of Investment (BOI)
Deepal SL03 Image Gallery
SUVs, Sedans, and Premium EVs — All in the Mix
From the affordable BYD Dolphin to the sleek Seal sedan, all the way to the premium 7-seater Denza D9, the Chinese EV portfolio leaves little room untouched.
Curious how these cars look? We’ve compiled high-resolution image galleries you can explore here.
What This Means for the Region
Thailand has long served as a production stronghold for Japanese automakers. But that foundation is shifting.
If the trend continues, Thailand may become China’s EV beachhead — a critical gateway to ASEAN markets hungry for electrified transportation.
Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call, Not Just a Victory Lap
This story isn’t just about booking numbers. It’s about momentum — and right now, BYD has it.
For Toyota and other incumbents, this is a nudge to evolve — or risk becoming irrelevant in a fast-changing landscape.
For Thai consumers, it’s an EV future rich with options. For the industry? It’s decision time: adapt or get left behind.