Hyundai Mobility Thailand (HMT) has partnered with EVme to offer a new option for consumers looking to use electric vehicles (EVs) in a rental capacity rather than ownership. This initiative aligns with the growing trend of consumers preferring rental services, making it easier for them to manage unpredictable expenses under a single price. The first model available under this program is the Hyundai IONIQ 5, offered at a special rental rate of 33,300 baht per month for a 12-month package. This offer is available through the EVme application from March 24, 2025, until June 30, 2025, or until the vehicles allocated for the program run out.
The rental service provided by EVme is designed to cater to the evolving preferences of consumers who are increasingly interested in renting vehicles rather than purchasing them outright. One of the key advantages of this service is that it encompasses all unpredictable costs within one price. Users will not have to pay a down payment, and the rental fee covers all basic expenses, including mandatory car insurance, comprehensive insurance, maintenance costs, 24-hour emergency roadside assistance, and replacement vehicles in case their car is not operational.
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is the First Edition model, exclusively available on the EVme platform. This top-tier model was launched in 2024 and boasts a powerful electric motor with a maximum output of 217 horsepower and peak torque of 350 Newton-meters. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.4 seconds, reach a top speed of 185 km/h, and travel up to 451 kilometers on a single charge (WLTP).
Charging capabilities are impressive as well, with DC fast charging supporting up to 350 kW, allowing the vehicle to charge from 10% to 80% in just 17.16 minutes. The promotional price of 33,300 baht per month is a significant discount from the regular monthly fee of 59,299 baht for the 12-month package, available with the code HYUNDAI12M25 on the EVme application. However, this special offer is limited, and consumers are encouraged to act quickly.
Hyundai places great importance on innovation and new service solutions to present products that contribute to a sustainable future, adhering to its vision of 'Progress for Humanity.' The company aims to become a leader in electric mobility and transition into a Smart Mobility Solution Provider, enhancing all customer expectations to new heights.
In 2025, EVme is continuously developing its services and solutions for electric vehicles, integrating innovative services and modern digital tools to provide a seamless user experience that aligns with changing consumer behavior. Recently, EVme launched a new corporate campaign titled 'EVme Understands EV Users Best,' emphasizing its commitment to delivering automotive solutions that meet the needs of every customer. More details about the electric vehicle services can be found on their website or by downloading the EVme application.
Meanwhile, the SCB Economic Intelligence Center (EIC) has released the third episode of its series on "Conscious Consumerism," focusing on green electronics. This analysis highlights the changing consumer behavior towards sustainability, based on a survey of 1,103 participants nationwide. The report suggests policy recommendations and business adjustment strategies to align with sustainable economic growth and consumer demands.
The Global E-waste Monitor reported that in 2022, 62 million tons of electronic waste were generated globally, with projections indicating this could rise to 82 million tons by 2030, averaging an increase of 2.6 million tons per year. Alarmingly, only 22.3% of electronic waste is properly recycled. In Thailand, electronic waste has also been on the rise, increasing from 374,140 tons in 2011 to 439,495 tons in 2022, a 17% increase.
The SCB EIC Consumer survey indicates that 30% of Thai consumers plan to replace their IT equipment every 3-5 years, while 5% do so every 1-3 years. Moreover, the survey found that 88% of Thai consumers are concerned about environmental issues and the growing problem of electronic waste. Despite this awareness, only one in three consumers understands how to manage electronic waste effectively, with approximately 20% still unaware of proper disposal methods.
Interestingly, while there is a significant interest in green electronics, many consumers are reluctant to pay much more for these products. The survey revealed that over half of the respondents are willing to pay no more than 5% extra, while 37% would consider paying an additional 5-10% for green electronics. This hesitance is particularly evident among those with moderate to high household incomes.
Looking forward, the global market for green electronics is projected to grow from 1.73 trillion US dollars in 2023 to 1.77 trillion US dollars by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate of 26.14%. This trend underscores the increasing consumer demand for sustainable products.
As the electronics industry faces mounting pressure regarding sustainability, companies like Apple and Samsung have begun adapting their strategies to focus on environmentally friendly practices, including using lower-carbon materials and increasing recycling efforts. The emphasis on green electronics is not just a trend but a necessary shift to meet consumer expectations and regulatory pressures.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Hyundai and EVme represents a significant step toward promoting electric vehicle usage in Thailand while the SCB EIC's findings on consumer behavior reveal a growing concern for sustainability in electronics. As both sectors evolve, they highlight the importance of adapting to consumer preferences and the urgent need for effective management of electronic waste.
