Bangkok: Supamas Isarabhakdi, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, has unveiled a new e-book aimed at addressing significant challenges in the automotive market, particularly focusing on electric vehicles (EVs) and used cars. The initiative seeks to close gaps related to "damaged, abandoned vehicles, and plummeting prices."
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Supamas, in her role overseeing the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), has tasked key officials, including Mr. Pradermchai Boonchuaylue, Dr. Patcharin Samsiripong, and Mr. Ronnarong Poolpipat, to proactively tackle issues faced by consumers in the automotive sector. This move comes as the market for electric vehicles experiences rapid growth, bringing with it a host of consumer concerns.
The newly launched e-book serves as a comprehensive guide for vehicle owners, providing essential information on both new and used cars, with a focus on transparent information verification. This initiative aims to eliminate consumer doubts and protect them from exploitation in the modern automotive landscape.
Ms. Supamas highlighted that data from the Consumer Protection Board and the Consumer Organization Council revealed over 1,300 complaints from EV users. The primary concerns include "defective vehicles," "abandonment after service centers close," and "fluctuating and rapidly decreasing selling prices." The e-book addresses these issues through detailed sections, offering consumers the tools to make informed purchasing decisions.
The e-book categorizes information for ease of use into three main sections: a New Electric Vehicle (EV) Label Hub, Standards for Vehicle and EV Labeling (Red License Plates), and Survival Strategies for the Used Car Market. These resources provide comprehensive data, empowering buyers to verify specifications, performance, and historical data before making a purchase.
Additionally, the Consumer Protection Board has emphasized legal provisions under the Consumer Protection Act B.E. 2522 (1979), mandating the labeling of electric vehicles and automobiles. Non-compliance by showrooms or manufacturers can result in substantial penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
The e-book is available for public access and download on the OCPB website, offering a valuable resource for consumers navigating the complexities of purchasing automobiles and electric vehicles.