Don't Be Surprised! Thai PM Switches from Rolls-Royce to BYD Due to US-Iran Conflict
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Thailand’s Prime Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, has decided to switch from a luxury Rolls-Royce to an electric vehicle produced by BYD. The decision has drawn public attention as it reflects a change in lifestyle among Thailand’s political elite amid the US war against Iran in the Middle East, which has led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a global oil shipping route.
Citing Kuaitech, the move was primarily triggered by the rise in fuel prices in Thailand. On 24 March, the local government announced a fuel price increase, with the average petrol price in Thailand now reaching US$1.382 per litre or Rp23,369 per litre, while diesel reaches US$1.010 or Rp17,079 per litre.
In response, Anutin has chosen to use fully electric vehicles in his daily activities. He is also encouraging the public to start switching to environmentally friendly vehicles.
“Electric vehicle models can significantly reduce fuel costs while achieving zero emissions,” Anutin stated in an interview, cited on Monday (30/3/2026).
He added that the use of electric vehicles is not only more energy-efficient but also provides significant environmental benefits amid growing attention to climate change issues. This step is seen as a strong signal from the Thai government in promoting the adoption of electric vehicles and accelerating the transition to green transportation.
The same report was published by Thai Enquirer. In detail, it states that Anutin has now switched to the BYD Sealion 7.
“Anutin, a car enthusiast who owns a collection of various vehicles up to aeroplanes, was seen today using the latest Chinese-made BYD electric car to head to the Government House, the Prime Minister’s headquarters,” the website wrote, uploading photos of the PM using the BYD Sealion 7 last weekend.
Thailand still has fuel stocks for up to 100 days ahead, provided the conflict between the US-Israel and Iran subsides soon. Anutin has previously issued a stern warning to fuel hoarders and will impose heavy sanctions if caught raising oil prices.