IN last week’s article, we listed down the ratios between the countries that have the most electric vehicles (counting only trucks and cars). This week the focus is on Southeast Asia and continues and concludes on EVs as a major part of the sustainability
In Southeast Asia the mix is different with fossil fuels still dominating, at least 70 to even 80 percent of the energy mix in most countries. The overall ratios, based on consolidated reports by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and RedSmith, a research and consulting company, shows that coal makes up for approximately 40 to 45 percent, natural gas about 25 to 30 percent and oil and bunker fuel some 15 to 20 percent. Hydropower accounts for 10 to 15 percent, solar and wind a mere 3 to 5 percent and geothermal and biomass just 1 to 2 percent.
The electric vehicle (EV) and battery manufacturing landscape in Southeast Asia is evolving, with Thailand and Indonesia taking the lead.
Thailand has leveraged its strong automotive industry to attract major investments from Chinese automakers like Great Wall Motor and BYD, resulting in a surge in EV production.
Indonesia is capitalizing on its rich nickel reserves, essential for EV batteries. With investments from Hyundai and LG Energy Solution, the country has launched its first EV battery plant, positioning itself as a future battery production hub.
Malaysia, with its well-established automotive sector, is transitioning into EV manufacturing. Automakers like Hyundai and Geely are exploring production opportunities, and national brands like Proton and Perodua are set to introduce EV models soon.
The Philippines is attracting attention for its vast nickel reserves, with companies like VinFast expressing interest in battery manufacturing. The government is also promoting EV development through incentives, and 12 EV brands have already entered the market.
Vietnam’s VinFast has positioned itself as a rising EV player by opening an EV battery plant, enhancing its supply chain and opening doors for potential collaborations and exports.
Singapore, though limited in manufacturing space, is focusing on EV adoption through policies, tax rebates, and charging infrastructure, leading to a rise in EV imports.
However, the challenge of relying on fossil fuels to power EVs remains. Despite this, EVs still contribute to sustainability through reduced emissions, cleaner air, and innovation in energy technology. As grids shift towards cleaner energy, EVs will become even more environmentally friendly.
And the balance comes after charging.
EVs can contribute to sustainability even if the electricity used to charge them currently comes from fossil fuels, in several ways:
1. Overall emissions reduction: Even when charged with electricity generated from fossil fuels, EVs generally produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions than conventional gasoline-powered vehicles. This is because electric motors are more efficient than internal combustion engines, and power plants, even those using fossil fuels, often have better emissions controls than individual vehicles.
2. Shift towards cleaner energy: The electricity grid is gradually transitioning towards cleaner sources like solar and wind power. As this happens, the environmental impact of EVs will decrease further, making them even more sustainable in the long run.
3. Reduced local pollution: EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, meaning cleaner air in cities and reduced health risks for the population, even if the electricity generation still involves some pollution at a distant power plant.
4. Energy diversification: EVs offer the potential to reduce dependence on imported oil, as electricity can be generated from a variety of domestic sources, including renewables. This can enhance energy security and reduce vulnerability to fluctuations in global oil prices.
5. Technological advancements: The EV industry is driving innovation in battery technology, renewable energy integration, and smart grid systems. These advancements can benefit the entire energy sector and accelerate the transition to a cleaner energy future.
While the ideal scenario is for EVs to be charged entirely with renewable energy, their current contribution to sustainability should not be dismissed. They represent a significant step in the right direction and will become even more environmentally friendly as the power grid becomes cleaner.
To fully realize the potential of EVs in combatting climate change, a simultaneous and urgent transition to clean energy sources is imperative. This will require a multi-faceted approach, requiring and expanding solar, wind, and other clean energy sources will reduce the carbon intensity of the electricity grid, making EVs even greener.
Governments and policymakers need to continue incentivizing EV adoption and investing in charging infrastructure while promoting a swift transition to a clean energy future. — with Raymond B. Tribdino
