PHNOM PENH—Cambodia has registered a total of 4,320 electric vehicles (EVs) as of October 2024, including 2,513 electric cars, according to a report from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport.

The report, presented on November 28 during the 3rd Meeting of the Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee to Draft the Legal Framework, Policy, and National Strategy for the Management and Development of EVs, also highlighted the registration of 1,329 electric motorcycles and 478 electric three-wheelers.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Public Works and Transport Peng Ponea stated that Cambodia aims to increase the number of EVs to 800,000 by 2030, including 30,000 electric cars, as part of its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“EVs have become increasingly popular among Cambodians in recent years,” Ponea said, noting that China’s BYD, Japan’s Toyota, and America’s Tesla are currently the most popular EV brands in the country.

There are currently 21 EV charging stations nationwide.

In contrast, Cambodia has over 7.6 million petrol-powered vehicles, with motorbikes and three-wheelers comprising 85 percent. Cars account for 10 percent, while buses, lorries, and heavy machinery make up the remaining 5 percent.

Despite the growing adoption of EVs, the country faces challenges in repairing and assembling them, said Natharoun Ngo Son, Director of EnergyLab Cambodia.

“EnergyLab will launch a new program from 2025 to 2028, focusing on identifying the needs of private sectors to enhance skills and capacity,” Natharoun said. He added that the organization plans to work closely with both private and government sectors to promote greater EV usage.