In a delightful twist of environmental consciousness meets high office, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin made a stylish and green entrance at Government House, commanding the attention of all as he rolled up in a Fiat Abarth 500 electric vehicle (EV) – a small, zesty lime-green marvel that seems to have popped right out of the future. The scene was set on a sunny Wednesday morning, with the Prime Minister behind the wheel, embarking on what was just another workday, yet with an eco-friendly flair that caught everyone’s eyes.
This wasn’t just any ordinary day at the office for Prime Minister Srettha; he was on a mission to steer the day’s agenda towards a greener horizon. He had a pivotal meeting to chair on EV policies, a rallying point for Thailand’s charge into a sustainable future. But before we delve into the nitty-gritty of governmental meetings and policies, let’s take a moment to appreciate the ride that got him there. Picture this: the bustling streets of Bangkok, the usual line of official cars – and then there’s Srettha, in a car that’s about as far from “business as usual” as you can get, bringing a whole new meaning to the term ‘power drive’.
Srettha’s choice of transport was a personal one, and it tells us a bit about the man behind the title. This EV, with its striking color that adds a dash of whimsy to its eco-conscious stature, belongs to his daughter. It’s a beautiful blend of family values and a commitment to sustainability. With a tongue-in-cheek pride, he shared on social media platforms, including the X platform and Facebook, “One of my joys is to drive sometimes. This car belongs to my daughter. I like it very much. The colour is beautiful and cute, and it is an EV.” It’s clear: this is a prime minister who doesn’t just talk the talk on environmental change; he drives the drive – quite literally.
As he navigated the lime-green Fiat through the streets of Bangkok, moving effortlessly from his residence in the trendy Asok-Sukhumvit area to Government House, it was as if the Prime Minister was charting a tangible path towards Thailand’s sustainable future. And let’s not overlook the fact that the man at the country’s helm was driving himself, following behind his usual van in a motorcade. It speaks volumes about his approach to leadership – hands-on, grounded, and ready to lead by example.
The car itself, a Fiat Abarth 500 EV, with its charming presence and a market price tag of about 2.38 million baht, is no small player in the narrative of embracing cleaner, greener technologies. It’s a statement piece, quietly asserting that luxury, performance, and environmental responsibility can indeed go hand in hand.
As the day unfolded at Government House, with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin at the helm of Thailand’s first EV policy meeting of the year, it was clear that the ride there wasn’t just a matter of personal preference or style. It was a prelude to what’s on Thailand’s horizon – a future where green is not just a color but a way of life, where driving an electric vehicle is as commonplace as enjoying a sunny morning in Bangkok. And if the Prime Minister’s ride of choice is any indication, Thailand’s journey towards this future is already off to an electrifying start.
I think it’s fantastic that the Prime Minister is setting such a positive example by driving an EV! Shows real commitment to sustainability.
While it’s a nice symbolic gesture, one car change doesn’t solve the bigger environmental issues. What about policies and systemic changes?
Absolutely agree on the need for broader changes, but leadership often starts with personal example. It raises visibility and can drive public interest and policy changes.
Don’t underestimate symbolic gestures. They can be powerful catalysts for change, especially from someone in such a high position.
Feels more like a PR stunt to me. Politicians do this all the time to look good. Let’s see if any real policy changes happen.
That’s a fair point. However, today’s PR stunt can become tomorrow’s policy reform if there’s enough public pressure and support.
As someone living in Bangkok, I’ve seen little improvement in our city’s air quality. Actions speak louder than words, or in this case, cars.
Isn’t the Fiat Abarth 500 EV a bit of an unusual choice? It’s not exactly the first car that comes to mind when you think ‘electric vehicle’.
Unusual, yes, but that might be the point. Choosing a unique car makes the statement more noticeable, hence more effective in promoting EVs.
The color and the make of the car aside, this move has the potential to make people more open to adopting EVs. It’s about time high-profile leaders show the way.
True, and it could also signal a boost for the EV market in Thailand, which is great for both the industry and the environment.
It’s refreshing to see leaders who are willing to personally adopt eco-friendly practices. Hoping this encourages more individuals to consider EVs.
Optimism is good, but don’t get your hopes up. Most people will follow suit only when it’s financially viable for them, not because a leader does it.
Love that he chose a Fiat! It’s about time smaller EVs get some love. Not everyone needs a Tesla to make a difference.
Driving an EV worth 2.38 million baht isn’t exactly relatable to the average Thai citizen. How are we expected to follow this ‘example’?
It’s more about the push towards electric vehicles in general rather than the specific model. Hopefully, it paves the way for more affordable options.
All this buzz around EVs, but what about the charm and legacy of gasoline cars? I feel like we’re moving too fast without appreciating what we’re leaving behind.
It’s not about forgetting the past but ensuring there’s a future to look forward to. Electric vehicles are a necessary step towards a sustainable world.