Who’s winning the EV race?

Are high energy prices prompting a shift to electric vehicles in Asia? In China, more than half of all new cars sold are now electric vehicles or plug-in hybrids. But across the rest of Asia, the shift is much slower, in part due to a lack of charging infrastructure. Will high oil prices due to the Iran conflict be the catalyst to change that? Chinese carmakers are rapidly expanding into Southeast Asia, setting up factories, and challenging long-established Japanese and Korean manufacturers. But a rush in South East Asia to attract Chinese investment and technology is being offset by growing concerns that cheaper Chinese models are flooding markets. Even US giant Tesla is hugely reliant on China for its business. So can carmakers compete with China’s EV manufacturing might? On this episode of Asia Specific, host Mariko Oi is joined by Hannah Miao, China economy reporter at the Wall Street Journal, and Theo Leggett, the BBC’s Transport Correspondent, to unpack the global EV race. Asia Pacific, unpacked by those who know it best. Bringing you essential insights and conversations on the stories shaping the region - an economic powerhouse, geo-political flashpoint and the birthplace of global cultural trends. Hear Asian perspectives on international issues and in-depth analysis on news from a region that’s home to nearly 2.5 billion people. Whether it is the latest on trade between the US and China, the rise and fall of political dynasties in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, or South Korea’s K-pop inspired soft power strategy, we find out what key players are thinking and dive into the stories that matter. Hosted in Singapore by Mariko Oi, alongside BBC experts in Beijing, Bangkok, and beyond – listen to new episodes twice a week. Episodes of Asia Specific are also available on YouTube, here: https://bit.ly/4iJyeVt Get in touch: asiaspecific@bbc.co.uk