Introduction
Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a futuristic concept—they’re already transforming roads across Asia. In Cambodia, a country where motorcycles and fuel-based cars have long dominated, electric mobility is finally gaining traction. The shift is visible in Phnom Penh’s growing fleet of sleek, silent electric cars and the expansion of charging stations across major provinces.
But one pattern stands out: Chinese EVs are leading the revolution. From affordable compact models like the Wuling Mini EV to the stylish BYD Dolphin and tech-driven NETA V, Chinese automakers are rapidly conquering Cambodia’s emerging EV market.
The reasons go far beyond price. Strategic government incentives, bilateral cooperation between China and Cambodia, local assembly investments, and a new generation of eco-conscious drivers are fueling this change. This article explores why Chinese electric cars are dominating Cambodia’s market in 2025, spotlighting the brands, policies, and consumer trends shaping this electric revolution.
EV Market Growth in Cambodia: From a Niche to a National Trend
Just a few years ago, electric vehicles were rare sights on Cambodia’s roads. Today, they represent one of the fastest-growing sectors in the country’s transportation and energy transition strategy.
According to Xinhua News Agency (July 2024), Cambodia had registered 1,614 electric vehicles by mid-2024—an enormous jump from just a few hundred units the year before. By October 2024, registrations reached 2,513 EVs, marking a 620% year-on-year growth (Vietstock, 2024).
Government projections show that Cambodia aims to reach 30,000 EVs by 2030, with electric cars making up at least 40% of public transportation vehicles (Ministry of Public Works & Transport, 2024).
Key drivers behind this surge include:
- Tax and import incentives: Since 2021, Cambodia has cut EV import duties by roughly 50% compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
- Infrastructure expansion: Around 20–25 public charging stations now operate across major cities such as Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville (Xinhua, 2024).
- Regional influence: Neighboring Thailand and Vietnam are also promoting EV adoption, creating a competitive environment for ASEAN’s green mobility.
The combination of supportive policy, consumer awareness, and regional dynamics has made Cambodia fertile ground for Chinese automakers seeking to expand abroad.
5 Reasons Chinese Electric Cars Are Dominating Cambodia’s Roads
While Japanese, American, and European automakers are still gauging Cambodia’s EV potential, Chinese brands have already captured a dominant share of the local market. Here’s why.
1. Affordable Pricing and Market Accessibility
Chinese manufacturers like BYD, NETA, and Wuling have perfected the art of producing high-quality EVs at competitive prices.
For example:
- Wuling Mini EV sells for around US$16,800 in Phnom Penh (Khmer24.com, 2024).
- BYD Dolphin starts from US$26,000, while the NETA GT 580 AWD is priced around US$38,000.
These prices are significantly lower than most imported Japanese hybrids or Western EVs, which often exceed US$50,000 due to tariffs and logistics costs.
Affordability is crucial in a developing market like Cambodia, where the average household income still limits access to luxury imports. By providing attractive entry-level options, Chinese EVs are democratizing electric mobility.
2. Government Incentives and Bilateral Cooperation
The Cambodian government’s EV-friendly policies have directly benefited Chinese automakers.
Since 2021, the Ministry of Economy and Finance has reduced taxes on electric vehicle imports by half. This aligns with the country’s National Policy on E-Mobility, aiming to reduce fuel dependency and carbon emissions.
China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) further enhances bilateral investment opportunities. As part of Cambodia-China economic cooperation, several EV projects—including assembly plants and charging station networks—receive favorable treatment and financing.
This symbiotic relationship allows Chinese EV brands to operate with lower overhead costs and easier market entry.
3. Local Assembly and Industrial Investment
The single biggest game-changer is BYD’s decision to establish a local assembly plant in Cambodia.
In April 2025, BYD (Build Your Dreams) began construction on a US$32 million vehicle assembly facility in the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone (SSEZ). The plant will initially assemble 10,000 EVs annually, primarily for domestic consumption and later for export to other ASEAN markets (CNEVPost, 2025).
This marks a turning point for Cambodia’s automotive industry. Local assembly not only lowers import costs but also:
- Creates jobs and skill development opportunities.
- Strengthens after-sales service networks.
- Improves spare parts availability and affordability.
- Encourages supporting industries such as battery recycling and logistics.
With BYD leading the charge, other Chinese automakers like NETA and SAIC-GM Wuling are expected to follow with local partnerships and dealership expansion.
4. Strong Distribution Networks and Brand Visibility
Unlike Western or Japanese automakers that rely on regional importers, Chinese EV brands are actively building local distribution ecosystems in Cambodia.
- BYD already operates showrooms in Phnom Penh and is expanding into Siem Reap and Battambang.
- NETA Auto, distributed by SNKH (Cambodia) Co., Ltd, officially launched in early 2025 with plans to open multiple retail outlets nationwide (Fresh News Asia, 2025).
- Wuling has partnered with independent dealerships, offering affordable compact EVs targeted at city commuters.
Aggressive marketing, frequent test-drive events, and localized financing options (through banks like ACLEDA and Canadia) have made Chinese EVs more visible and accessible to Cambodian buyers.
5. Technological Innovation and Consumer Appeal
Chinese automakers no longer lag behind in design or performance. Their latest EV models incorporate advanced battery technology, AI-driven infotainment systems, and safety features once reserved for premium brands.
For instance:
- BYD’s Blade Battery offers enhanced safety and longer lifespan.
- NETA Auto integrates intelligent cockpit displays and smart voice assistants.
- Wuling Mini EV caters to Cambodia’s urban mobility needs with compact size, energy efficiency, and easy charging.
Cambodian consumers—especially younger urban drivers—are drawn to this blend of affordability and innovation. EVs have become symbols of progress, aligning with the aspirations of a tech-savvy middle class.
Meet the Chinese EV Brands Powering Cambodia’s Electric Revolution
BYD: Market Leader and Manufacturing Pioneer
BYD (Build Your Dreams) is currently Cambodia’s top-selling EV brand, holding roughly 40% of the market share as of mid-2024 (Xinhua, 2024).
BYD’s long-term commitment is evident in its Sihanoukville factory project, part of the Belt and Road Initiative’s industrial cooperation framework.
Popular BYD models available in Cambodia include:
- BYD Dolphin – compact hatchback ideal for city driving.
- BYD Seal – sleek sedan with over 500 km range.
- BYD Atto 3 – family SUV blending performance and safety.
BYD’s localized production and service network give it a decisive advantage over import-only competitors.
NETA Auto: The Rising Challenger
NETA Auto, a subsidiary of China’s Hozon New Energy Automobile Co., officially entered Cambodia in January 2025 through its distributor SNKH (Cambodia) Co., Ltd.
Its lineup includes:
- NETA V – affordable compact crossover.
- NETA GT – premium performance EV designed for urban professionals.
NETA’s marketing emphasizes “Smart, Safe, Sustainable” mobility, appealing to Cambodia’s growing middle class. The brand’s strong digital presence and collaborations with local influencers have quickly elevated its profile.
With price points between US$30,000–$40,000, NETA positions itself as the bridge between entry-level and luxury EVs.
Wuling: The Compact Urban Hero
Wuling Motors, a joint venture between SAIC, GM, and Liuzhou Wuling, has carved a niche in Cambodia’s market for compact electric cars.
Its Mini EV, famous for its affordability and efficiency, is a top seller among Phnom Penh commuters. Designed for short-range travel, the Mini EV offers up to 280 km range—perfect for Cambodia’s city landscape.
At US$16,000–$18,000, Wuling’s models make EV ownership possible for small business owners, students, and families who might otherwise stick with motorbikes.
Wuling’s simplicity, reliability, and cost efficiency embody what Cambodian consumers seek: practical innovation that fits everyday life.
How Policy and Infrastructure Are Fueling EV Growth
The Cambodian government’s strong commitment to green mobility has accelerated EV adoption across the country.
Key policy measures include:
- Reduced import taxes and zero VAT on EVs.
- Encouragement for EV assembly plants through the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC).
- Partnership with Electricite du Cambodge (EDC) to build charging stations nationwide.
Infrastructure remains limited but growing. As of mid-2024, Cambodia had around 25 public charging stations, mostly concentrated in Phnom Penh and tourist hubs (Xinhua, 2024). Plans are underway to expand this network to 100+ stations by 2026, supported by both public and private investment.
Moreover, solar-powered charging initiatives—often backed by Chinese renewable energy firms—are being explored to make EV charging cleaner and cheaper.
These combined efforts demonstrate that policy and infrastructure are advancing hand-in-hand, ensuring the EV revolution isn’t just for the wealthy but for the wider Cambodian population.
Why Cambodian Drivers Are Choosing Chinese EVs
To understand why Chinese EVs are so appealing, it’s essential to look at local consumer behavior.
1. Cost Efficiency
The operating cost of an EV is roughly US$2.34 per 100 km, compared to US$8.69 for a gasoline car (CambodgeMag, 2024). This dramatic difference makes EVs financially attractive, especially as fuel prices fluctuate.
2. Tech Appeal
Cambodian consumers—especially millennials—are drawn to digital dashboards, AI assistants, and smartphone integration. Chinese EVs, with their modern infotainment systems, deliver these features without premium pricing.
3. Environmental Awareness
As air pollution and traffic congestion worsen, more citizens are becoming eco-conscious. Choosing an EV, particularly one manufactured with renewable energy partnerships, is increasingly seen as a responsible lifestyle choice.
4. Accessibility and Financing
Local banks like ACLEDA, Canadia, and PPCBank have introduced EV loan programs with low interest rates, making electric cars easier to finance. Chinese automakers collaborate directly with these institutions to create buyer-friendly installment plans.
These factors combine to make Chinese EVs not just a technological novelty—but a practical choice for Cambodian households.
Challenges Chinese EVs Still Face in Cambodia
Despite their growing success, Chinese EV brands face several challenges in Cambodia’s evolving market.
- Limited Charging Infrastructure – Rural and provincial areas still lack accessible charging points.
- After-Sales Support – Service centers are concentrated in Phnom Penh; expansion is needed for nationwide coverage.
- Consumer Skepticism – Some Cambodians remain uncertain about EV battery lifespan, repair costs, and resale value.
- Competition from Hybrids – Japanese hybrid vehicles, such as Toyota’s Prius and Aqua, remain popular for their familiarity and fuel efficiency.
To overcome these hurdles, automakers are investing in education campaigns, expanding maintenance networks, and offering battery warranties of up to 8 years to reassure buyers.
The Future of Chinese EVs and Cambodia’s Electric Mobility
Cambodia’s EV journey is just beginning, and Chinese automakers are shaping its roadmap.
In the next decade, we can expect:
- Expansion of local assembly: BYD’s plant may inspire NETA and Wuling to build their own facilities.
- Regional exports: Cambodia could emerge as an EV manufacturing hub for Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam.
- EV ecosystem growth: Battery recycling, software upgrades, and EV component suppliers will form new industries.
- Green energy integration: Solar and hydroelectric power will increasingly feed Cambodia’s EV charging infrastructure.
This aligns with Cambodia’s broader 2030 Sustainable Development Vision, which prioritizes clean energy and low-emission transport.
Chinese EV dominance will likely continue—not just through sales but through industrial partnership, local innovation, and regional leadership.
Conclusion
Chinese EVs are more than vehicles—they’re catalysts of Cambodia’s economic modernization and environmental progress.
From BYD’s factory in Sihanoukville to NETA’s digital showrooms and Wuling’s compact city cars, Chinese automakers have successfully localized their strategies for the Cambodian market. Their focus on affordability, accessibility, and innovation gives them a decisive edge over Western and Japanese competitors.
For Cambodia, the EV boom isn’t just about cleaner roads—it’s about creating new industries, jobs, and sustainable growth for the next generation.
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References
- Xinhua News Agency. Cambodia registers 1,614 electric vehicles as of June 2024. (July 9, 2024).
- Vietstock. Cambodia registers 2,513 electric cars as of October 2024. (Nov 2024).
- China.org.cn. Cambodia’s EV market grows sixfold in 2024. (Jan 2025).
- CNEVPost. BYD breaks ground on new EV assembly plant in Sihanoukville. (Apr 29, 2025).
- Fresh News Asia. NETA Auto officially launches in Cambodia. (Jan 17, 2025).
- CambodgeMag. EV adoption and running cost comparison in Cambodia. (2024).
- Ministry of Public Works & Transport. Cambodia EV Roadmap 2030. (2024).
- Khmer24.com. Listings for BYD, NETA, and Wuling EVs in Phnom Penh. (2024).
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. OrkunSantepheap.com is not affiliated with any automaker or government body. For official EV policy updates, please visit the Ministry of Public Works and Transport website.