Japan believes that hybrid vehicles can be a critical route for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to achieve its sustainable development goals. During the “Economic Security and Supply Chains” seminar, Prof. Yasuyuki Todo from the Faculty of Political Science and Economics at Waseda University explained that ASEAN should be cautious about relying too much on the electric vehicle (EV) industry.
Due to ASEAN’s primary dependence on fossil fuels for energy production, using EVs may not be as environmentally friendly as hoped. Prof. Todo emphasized that though EVs are often promoted as eco-friendly, they still consume precious non-renewable resources for their energy needs.
Therefore, he proposed that ASEAN, including Thailand, should instead focus on hybrid cars. These vehicles present a more practical alternative for many countries in terms of reducing carbon emissions. Hybrid cars combine the benefits of conventional and electric vehicles, providing a balanced approach to energy efficiency and sustainability.
Prof. Todo also stressed that Thailand has progressed beyond the stage of being merely a hub for car manufacturers. He suggested that the country should now focus more on research and development rather than car production. Companies like Toyota already have significant research centers in Thailand, positioning the country to lead in automotive innovation.
To achieve its carbon neutrality and zero emissions goals by 2050 and 2065 respectively, Thailand should invest in producing and managing energy more efficiently. Leveraging existing technology can significantly improve energy productivity and help meet these ambitious goals. “Producing energy more efficiently is another way to achieve sustainable development,” Prof. Todo said, urging ASEAN nations to utilize technology to enhance their energy sectors.
Adding to the conversation, Shinnosuke Ito, Head of the Keidanren Environment & Energy Policy Bureau and Challenge Zero Promotion Office, spoke at another seminar, “Towards Green Transformation.” Ito advocated for a diversified approach to achieving net-zero emissions, highlighting the role of hybrid cars as a more realistic option compared to a sole focus on EVs.
“We should not pursue EV success to the detriment of other industries,” Ito cautioned. “We need to allow alternatives such as hybrid cars. We need to go step by step.” He pointed out that the Japanese automotive industry, including giants like Toyota Motor Corp, offers a variety of vehicle lines alongside EVs. Jumping head-first into EVs is deemed unrealistic for even an advanced nation like Japan.
Reiji Takehara, Director of the Keidanren International Cooperation Bureau, also weighed in on the issue. He explained that transitioning to net-zero emissions should not focus exclusively on EVs. “When governments offer subsidies for EVs, the prices become more attractive for buyers. But when the subsidies stop, people will be reluctant to purchase them again,” he noted.
Highlighting the practical challenges, Takehara mentioned that Japan still lacks a sufficient number of EV charging stations. Additionally, to truly reduce carbon emissions, the electricity used for charging EVs must be generated entirely from renewable sources. “In Japan, we still burn fossil fuels to produce electricity, which is supplied to the country, including EV charging stations,” he explained.
“Are there any countries that can boast that 100% of their electricity needs are met by renewable sources? I do not think so. Therefore, we should not be shortsighted,” Takehara concluded, emphasizing the need for a balanced and realistic approach toward sustainable development.
The author attended these insightful discussions in Japan from July 16-19 as part of the “2024 Invitation Programme for ASEAN Journalists,” hosted by the Keizai Koho Centre. This program aims to foster mutual understanding between ASEAN and Japan, focusing on their cooperation to achieve sustainable development goals.
I think Prof. Todo makes a good point. Relying solely on EVs given our current energy infrastructure could be a bad move for ASEAN.
Agree! Hybrids may strike the perfect balance, especially when most of our electricity still comes from fossil fuels.
But isn’t that the problem here? By promoting hybrids, aren’t we only delaying the shift to renewable energy and cleaner technology?
Not necessarily, TechieAvenger. Hybrids can serve as a middle ground, helping us reduce emissions now while we work on cleaner power sources.
Exactly, Joe. ASEAN nations need a practical approach, and hybrids make sense given our current energy mix.
I’m skeptical. Hybrids are still using fossil fuels, albeit less. Shouldn’t we be pushing harder for renewable energy instead?
That’s ideal, but consider the infrastructure costs and the current state. Sometimes, gradual steps are more effective than abrupt changes.
Right, Erik. Renewable energy should be the end goal, but we need practical steps to get there. Hybrids provide a feasible transition.
What about battery disposal issues with hybrids? Are we just trading one environmental problem for another?
Good point, Vicky. I feel like neither solution is perfect, but perhaps hybrids are less problematic than fully committing to EVs so soon.
Valid concern! Both EVs and hybrids need better waste management solutions for batteries. This problem needs addressing as part of the overall strategy.
Not impressed by these opinions. Fact is, EV infrastructure is already growing globally, ASEAN needs to catch up.
Sure, Carlos. But growth in infrastructure doesn’t mean it’s equitable or practical everywhere. Some regions need alternative paths.
Fair, but should we slow down our progress just because the infrastructure isn’t there yet? We need to expedite it.
The argument for hybrids might be convincing, but are we ignoring how this could slow investments in renewables?
That’s not necessarily true. Hybrids can be a bridge that also supports renewable energy advancements. It’s not mutually exclusive.
EVs are the future, no question. We just need a stronger push towards cleaner electricity.
Isn’t it unfair to force ASEAN countries to follow the same path as developed nations? We need solutions tailored to our unique situations.
Exactly! Not all regions can adopt the same strategies. Local context matters for sustainable development.
Glad someone gets it, Rick. Our policies should reflect regional capabilities and limitations.
Subsidies for EVs are a short-term fix. If they end, EV adoption drops. Hybrids may provide more lasting changes.
Absolutely, Tanya. Sustainable policies need to look beyond short-term incentives and focus on long-term infrastructure and habits.
True! Policies should encourage sustainable transition without making us overly dependent on subsidies.
While hybrids sound practical, shouldn’t we accelerate R&D for exclusively renewable solutions regardless of the current energy mix?
Countries like Thailand, with advanced R&D, could definitely spearhead hybrid technology and make a significant impact in the region.
Toyota has been investing in hybrids for years. Maybe ASEAN can learn from their model to balance immediate needs with future goals.
I’m still not convinced. We need a more focused approach toward EVs if we ever want to truly rid ourselves of fossil fuels.
Diversified strategies ensure we aren’t putting all our eggs in one basket. A mix can safeguard socio-economic stability during the transition.
Absolutely right, AI_wiz. A balanced approach can offer the flexibility needed to adapt to future changes in technology and policy.
For regions heavily dependent on fossil fuels, hybrids could indeed be the sensible middle ground.
Spot on, Jane. It’s about realistic and achievable steps toward a sustainable future without disrupting economic stability.
Exactly, FutureEngineer. Gradual change over time is often the most effective route to large-scale societal shifts.
Whatever the solution, the priority should always be aligning policies with the long-term goal of zero emissions.