Thailand Launches E-Book for EV and Used Car Buyers to Enhance Consumer Protection

The Thai government has launched a comprehensive e-book for electric vehicle (EV) and used car buyers, aiming to strengthen consumer protection. This initiative comes in response to the increasing number of consumer complaints within the rapidly growing EV market. Supamas Isarapakdi, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, who oversees the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), announced that the e-book will serve as a valuable resource for EV and used car purchasers. It is designed to provide buyers with transparent information about vehicles before making a purchase. According to reports from the OCPB and the Confederation of Consumer Organizations, EV users have filed over 1,300 complaints. The primary concerns raised are "vehicle defects," "lack of support due to service center closures," and "rapid fluctuations in sales prices." The newly launched e-book aims to act as a "weapon" to address these issues, featuring three key sections: 1. EV Hub: Consolidates information for all EV brands' new cars, allowing for comparison of specifications, performance, and features. 2. New Car and EV Label Standards: Gathers information on regulatory requirements for displaying technical specifications, including battery information, driving range, testing standards, prices, and warranty conditions. 3. Used Car Market Solutions: Addresses concerns of used car buyers by providing transparent and reliable vehicle history information, reducing the risk of fraudulent sales. Minister Supamas emphasized that, in addition to the e-book, all vehicles, including EVs, will be designated as "labeled controlled goods" under the Consumer Protection Act. She warned that businesses failing to provide adequate labeling or withholding crucial information could face imprisonment of up to six months, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both. The e-book is available for download on the OCPB website (www.ocpb.go.th), and inquiries can also be made through the consumer hotline at 1166. Source: INN News