Northern Laos eyes electric vehicle freight hubs

Northern Laos could become a key hub for electric freight transport under a new study supporting greener logistics along the Thailand-Laos-China economic corridor.
The study will examine the feasibility of developing electric vehicle (EV) truck parks at the Amata Smart and Eco City Namor project in Oudomxay province and the Amata Smart and Eco City Nateuy project in Luang Namtha province, which shares a border with China. Freight traffic along the corridor is being driven by the Laos-China Railway. 
The initiative is expected to support the growing use of electric trucks on one of the region’s busiest trade routes, helping to improve cross-border transport efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and strengthen regional supply chains.
The project took a step forward after Amata City Laos and PTT (Lao) Company Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding authorising them to carry out the feasibility study, according to PTT (Lao).
Under the agreement, the two companies will study site suitability, technical requirements and investment models before setting up a joint working group to move the scheme forward.
According to PTT (Lao), Amata City Laos will provide land for the proposed facilities and coordinate with government agencies, while PTT Lao will contribute expertise in energy systems, charging technology and related infrastructure.
The planned EV truck parks would be designed as integrated service centres for electric freight vehicles travelling on arterial routes. They would include ultra-fast charging stations and supporting facilities for truck operators and drivers to improve the efficiency, safety and commercial use of long-distance electric freight transport.
Lao Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce Dr Manothong Vongsay said the ministry fully supports the scheme because it aligns with the government’s policy to expand electric vehicle use, reduce transport-related pollution, improve green logistics, and make better use of the country’s renewable energy resources.
The government aims for electric vehicles to account for 30 percent of all vehicles by 2030. It is investing in charging stations, maintenance centres, financial support measures and technology cooperation to encourage wider adoption while reducing logistics costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
The proposed EV truck parks are expected to strengthen cargo movement along the Thailand-Laos-China economic corridor, attract more foreign direct investment, and reinforce Laos’ ambition to become a regional land-linked transport and logistics hub.
The initiative reflects growing efforts to develop cleaner transport infrastructure while reinforcing Laos’ position as a strategic logistics gateway linking ASEAN and China through sustainable trade and transport networks.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update July 24, 2026)