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According to the Green Electric Vehicle Association (GEVA), Asian countries are embarking on a 'green makeover' of their tourism industry with the introduction of electric-powered tuk tuks.
The tourism sector in Asian countries is facing a severe threat from air pollution, primarily caused by the widespread use of conventional modes of transportation in tourist cities. As a response, most countries in the region are adopting green initiatives for their tourism sector, deploying electric tuk tuks to navigate the challenges.
Mr. Ed Benjamin, President of the Electric Green Vehicle Association, stated: 'In Asian countries, the two-stroke engine-powered three-wheeled vehicles, known as tuk tuks, have become iconic in the tourism industry of major cities such as New Delhi (India) and Bangkok (Thailand).'
Environmental experts identify these vehicles as the primary culprits behind air pollution in countries like India, Thailand, China, and even Vietnam.
The popularity of these two types of vehicles is attributed to their mobility and affordable cost. However, this choice has led to various consequences such as traffic congestion, significant CO2 emissions contributing to air pollution, and noisy engines causing discomfort to tourists. Consequently, tourism authorities express concerns about the return of tourists.
Amidst the current scenario, the tourism industry of Asian countries, especially those in Southeast Asia, is undergoing a 'revolution' in transportation through the introduction of electric-powered tuk tuks. This initiative aims to significantly reduce air pollution and noise levels caused by traditional vehicle engines.
An exemplary case is the Philippines, where electric tuk tuks are being utilized in Manila. The country plans to embrace green practices by incorporating approximately 100,000 electric tuk tuks into its nationwide transportation system by 2016.
Mr. Toru Tokushige, the CEO of the Japanese electric vehicle company Terra Motors, stated: 'Currently, we are endeavoring to introduce our line of electric tuk tuks into the tourism markets of Vietnam, India, and the Philippines. This marks a 'reverse revolution,' transitioning from developing nations to developed ones.'
Source: Tuoi Tre
