Electric Cars, Scooters and Home Charging in Phuket

The market and policy

Reports say electric and hybrid vehicles took a record share of new car sales in the first seven months of 2026, and that the excise tax rate on passenger battery electric vehicles fell from 8 percent to 2 percent from January 2026 under the existing EV 3.5 framework. In September 2026 the national EV policy committee agreed in principle to restructure vehicle excise tax in tiers that favour locally manufactured models over imports, which could change prices, so check current rules before you buy. Cabinet also approved measures in April 2026 to promote electric motorcycles and charging and battery-swap stations.

Charging

National figures from early 2026 put Thailand at around 8,600 DC fast-charging outlets and 5,400 AC outlets, with a target of 12,000 DC points by 2030. Coverage is better in big cities than in provinces, so plan longer trips and check charging apps. Phuket has public chargers at malls, hotels and some fuel stations, but availability changes, so verify locally.

Home charging

• Tenants and condo owners need the landlord's or juristic office's permission and a safe dedicated circuit. Never use an extension lead.
• A dedicated wall charger installed by a qualified electrician is safer than a standard socket.
• Check your meter and tariff, and see the electricity and mould guide and the solar and power cuts guide.
• Home insurance may need to be told about charging equipment. See the home insurance guide.

Electric scooters and motorcycles

Electric motorbikes are registered in the tens of thousands nationally and are promoted by the government. Rentals of electric scooters exist in resort areas. The same licence, helmet and insurance rules as petrol bikes apply, so read the driving and scooter rules and the renting a scooter guide.

Buying cautions

Prices have been volatile, some brands have left the market and returned incentives, so check warranty and after-sales support in Phuket and battery guarantees. See the buying a car or scooter guide for registration and insurance, and the traffic guide for how Phuket's roads affect range and charging.