Phuket Municipality has introduced two open-top electric buses as part of a broader initiative to support tourism and environmental sustainability on the island. The 18-seat vehicles, unveiled in March 2025, are intended to serve both as eco-friendly public transport and as mobile promotional tools showcasing the province’s cultural landmarks.
The electric buses have been decorated with illustrations inspired by Phuket Old Town’s Sino-European architecture, reflecting the city’s heritage and aiming to strengthen its visual identity. According to the municipality, this initiative aligns with efforts to reduce air pollution, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and to encourage low-emission travel in tourist areas.
Supplied by Electric Vehicles (Thailand) Plc, the buses represent part of a larger urban development push by the local government. Upcoming projects include the installation of additional surveillance cameras across 26 intersections, 33 residential areas, and three public parks. These cameras will feed into a centralised command room operating 24 hours a day, with the goal of enhancing public safety and improving residents’ and visitors’ overall quality of life.
In parallel, the Saphan Hin Sports Centre is preparing to host two international sports events in 2025. The Toyota Phuket International Series, a global badminton tournament, is scheduled from 1–6 April at Gymnasium 2. Later in the year, from 22–27 August, the venue will welcome the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship at Gymnasium 1. Both events are expected to contribute to the island’s sports tourism strategy and stimulate local economic activity. The 4,000-seat facility will undergo renovations following the events and will be closed to the public starting June.
Officials including Phuket Mayor Saroj Angkanapilas were present at the launch of the buses and outlined the future development plans.
