The Nation is reporting that automakers at the 34th Bangkok International Motor Show are expecting record sales, perhaps as high as 60,000 vehicles, thanks to attendance not only by Thai drivers but also from motorists throughout ASEAN.
Alan Mulally, president and chief executive officer of Ford Motor Company, lauded the opportunities proffered by the Motor Show, saying, “ASEAN is such an important growth opportunity for Ford within our Asia-Pacific region.”
He went on to state that he expects 60 to 70% of Ford’s sales growth within the next decade to come from the Asia-Pacific region. Apparently operating in accordance with a similar logic, automakers such as Toyota, Chevrolet and Honda have designed cars specifically for sale in Thailand and Malaysia.
While ASEAN provides a fertile market for international automakers, Thailand also stands to benefit from sales generated by the show. Though Thailand is expected to consume fewer cars this year than last (the first-car tax break having expired), a number of new products are expected to nonetheless help stimulate Thailand’s domestic market.
The 36 automakers taking part in the 2013 motor show expect eco-cars to prove a major draw this year, even amongst the other automotive toys on offer. For Thailand’s domestic auto industry, this may prove a fantastic boon.
