Mazda Considers Joining Thailand’s Eco-Car Program
Automakers have until March 31 to submit eco-car investment plans under the second phase of the government program.
Mazda is conducting a viability study into taking part in phase two of the Thai government’s eco-car project.
Senior Managing Executive Yuji Nakamine, in Thailand for the launch of the Malaysian-built CX-5 CUV, tells the Bangkok Post newspaper Mazda is discussing the conditions and rules for the project.
The Board of Investment has set a March 31 deadline for companies to submit eco-car investment plans.
To win tax concessions under the scheme, companies have to spend at least TB6.5 billion ($206.4 million) to build a new plant with an annual production capacity of 100,000 eco-cars within four years of operation. The cars must emit carbon dioxide of less than 100 g/km.
In return, the government will waive corporate taxes and import duties for machinery for eight years and participating automakers get excise taxes as low as 14%, with E85-compatible eco-cars taxed at 12%.
Nakamine says Mazda is keen to expand production capacity in Thailand. The company is aiming for annual sales of 150,000 units in the ASEAN region by 2015 and Thailand is the key priority market for the company’s business strategy.
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