BANGKOK, THAILAND – The Thai government planned a major cash bonus for drivers who scrapped old cars and switched to cleaner vehicles.
Government prepared large swap scheme
Authorities worked on a new incentive program for 2026 that would give motorists a strong financial bonus for trading in old vehicles for modern models. The stated aim was to cut air pollution and give a boost to the green economy.
Director General Pornchai Theeravech said the details were expected to be finalized by mid-May. The plans were then to be submitted to the Finance Ministry for review. The government intended to rapidly accelerate the shift to environmentally friendly technology.
Focus on electric and hybrid
The program was not designed for just any new cars, but for what officials described as the future of mobility. Electric cars and hybrid vehicles stood at the center of the new support scheme, as Thailand sought to reduce high oil consumption and curb emissions of harmful carbon dioxide.
Experts were examining in detail which vehicles would qualify for the swap. Battery size and retail prices played a decisive role in the assessment. Officials emphasized that no one should be disadvantaged in what was described as a huge deal.
What happens to the scrap
One major question remained open: what would happen to the thousands of old cars. Authorities were working under high pressure on a solution for handling the scrapped vehicles. A structured process for dealing with the waste of the past formed part of the new concept.
The Finance Ministry had already instructed the Revenue Department to speed up preparations. Because earlier studies were available, the team was able to build on existing knowledge. Officials said time was short, as the public was waiting for clear signals.
Industry already on board
Officials were in intensive talks with car manufacturers and leading industry associations. They aimed to ensure that factories could supply enough clean vehicles if the scheme went ahead. Production was already running at full capacity to meet rising demand.
Previous programs to promote electric mobility in Thailand had been described as successful. The government wanted to build on those measures and take what it called the next big step. By mid-May, it was expected to be clear how deeply the state would dig into its pockets for cleaner air.
“Would you have your beloved old car scrapped immediately in return for a state bonus?”
said Thairath, posing the question to readers.
“Write and tell us your opinion in the comments.”
said Thairath, inviting public feedback.