Amidst the automotive industry’s quest for sustainable energy solutions, PTT’s subsidiary, Arun Plus, is taking bold steps in Thailand.
Partnering with Taiwan’s Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., they aim to produce electric vehicles (EVs) locally. However, PTT’s vision extends beyond batteries, with a strategic focus on harnessing hydrogen’s potential as a versatile energy source.
PTT’s collaboration with the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand and ACWA Power from Saudi Arabia underscores its commitment to a cleaner future. Together, they strive to make green hydrogen production economically viable. Green hydrogen, extracted from water using renewable energy, stands as a beacon of sustainability despite its current cost challenges.
While batteries dominate the current discourse in passenger vehicles, PTT’s exploration of hydrogen signals a broader vision. Heavy-duty transport, such as buses and trucks, could find hydrogen’s attributes more compelling. Grey hydrogen, though less eco-friendly, offers an interim solution, especially for nations eager to accelerate their decarbonization journey.
PTT’s interest in hydrogen aligns with its smoother transition from conventional combustion engines, akin to Japanese automakers’ experiences. The versatility and potential applications of hydrogen, coupled with its compatibility with existing infrastructure, position it as a formidable contender in the sustainable mobility landscape.
As global sustainability initiatives reshape the automotive sector, EVs witness unprecedented growth. With governments incentivizing EV adoption and a rising emphasis on autonomous and shared mobility, the industry landscape is evolving rapidly. Forecasts predict a surge in EV sales, while the hydrogen fuel cell market anticipates significant expansion, highlighting the industry’s dynamism.
