Bangkok authorities impose stricter exhaust-smoke limits for diesel vehicles amid Thailand’s push for electric mobility and climate legislation. (Photo: iStock)
Bangkok authorities have announced stricter exhaust-smoke limits for diesel vehicles effective Nov. 1, as part of Thailand’s broader push toward electric mobility and its first Climate Change Act.
The new rule targets older diesel engines, particularly those predating Euro 5 standards, and lowers the permissible opacity of exhaust emissions from 30 percent to 20 percent. Offenders face fines of up to THB 4,000 (about USD 123）, while vehicles that fail to comply after re-inspection will be barred from use for 30 days.
Thailand strengthens EV industry with incentives and export push
Thailand is the largest EV market in Southeast Asia, and the sector continues to expand rapidly. In the first seven months of 2025, EV registrations reached 66,000 units, nearly matching the full-year total of 67,000 units in 2024. The government has set an ambitious goal for 30% of vehicle production to be zero-emission by 2030, equivalent to more than 700,000 units annually at current volumes.
