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In this edition of CIR Leader Talks, we speak with Mori Gong, Harmony Auto Cambodia (the parent company of BYD Cambodia) CountryBusiness Representative, who is at the forefront of BYD’s strategic efforts to establish a significant presence in Cambodia’s rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) market. The company’s leadership team has been instrumental in positioning BYD as a key player in the Kingdom, while also signaling to other Chinese companies the potential for investment in Cambodia.
BYD’s Commitment to Cambodia’s EV Market
BYD’s decision to build a production facility in Cambodia, with an annual capacity of 20,000 vehicles goal set by the Prime Minster of Cambodia Hun Manet, marks a significant step in the company’s broader strategy to capitalize on the rising demand for EVs in the region. “Cambodia’s EV market is not just a trend; it represents a substantial opportunity for growth,” Gong explains.
The current landscape of Cambodia’s EV market is still in its early stages but shows promising growth. According to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport As of June 2024, the country had registered 1,614 electric vehicles, with BYD the leading player the market, followed by other major brands such as Toyota and Tesla. In addition to cars, Cambodia has also registered 914 electric scooters and 440 three-wheeler electric vehicles, reflecting a broader adoption of electric mobility solutions.
Read More: BYD Revs Up for Cambodia’s Electric Vehicle Revolution
BYD’s strategy in Cambodia involves offering a range of vehicles that cater to different market segments, from affordable models starting at just $19,800 for BYD Cambodia entry model to the premium Denza brand, which is better known in China as BYD’s luxury line priced at $80,800. “We aim to meet the diverse needs of Cambodian consumers, from those seeking cost-effective options to those interested in high-end models,” Gong explains. This product diversity is designed to appeal to a broad range of buyers, particularly as awareness of sustainable and green technology continues to grow.
Supporting Cambodia’s EV Infrastructure
To support this growing market, BYD is focusing on expanding the EV infrastructure in Cambodia. “We recognize that the EV industry is still developing in Cambodia, and we are committed to playing a part in that growth,” Gong states. Currently, there are 18 EV charging stations available across the country, but BYD is taking proactive measures to enhance this infrastructure. The company offers free charging portals for installation in buyers’ homes or condos, ensuring that new EV owners have easy access to charging facilities from day one.
Gong acknowledges the challenges of expanding charging networks, particularly in rural areas, but remains optimistic about the progress being made. “While it may take time for the infrastructure to be fully developed in more remote regions, we are actively working with the government and other stakeholders to accelerate this process,” she says. The average driving range of BYD’s vehicles, which spans between 300 to 2,000 kilometers, is designed to meet the needs of most Cambodian drivers, from daily city commutes to longer weekend trips to destinations like Sihanoukville.
Ambitious Growth Targets for Southeast Asia
Looking towards the future, Gong shares that BYD has set ambitious targets for its operations in Cambodia and the broader Southeast Asian market over the next 5 to 10 years. Cambodia’s government has set a long-term goal to have 40 percent of all cars and 70 percent of motorbikes be electric by 2050, significantly reducing carbon emissions. BYD aims to be a significant contributor to these goals, supported by favorable government policies, such as reduced import duties on EVs, which are about 50 percent lower than those on traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
Read More: Is Cambodia ready for the upcoming Electric Vehicle revolution?
“Our aim is to contribute significantly to Cambodia’s EV adoption goals,” Gong says, highlighting the company’s role in the ongoing transformation of the country’s automotive landscape. BYD’s commitment to Cambodia goes beyond just vehicle sales; it encompasses a broader vision of fostering a sustainable, electric future that aligns with the country’s environmental and economic goals.
As BYD continues to expand its presence in Cambodia, the company is positioning itself as a leader in the region’s EV market. Gong’s efforts in guiding these initiatives underscore BYD’s commitment to both the local market and its broader regional strategy, making it a pivotal player in Cambodia’s journey towards a more sustainable and electrified future.
