$46m EV plant in Pursat set to transform transport landscape

PHNOM PENH, Mar. 27, 2026 (KPT) – Pursat province is set to host a $46 million electric vehicle assembly plant, a project officials say will accelerate the shift to cleaner transport and boost local industry.

The Council for the Development of Cambodia said ZO Motors (Cambodia) will build the facility in the Pursat Special Economic Zone, creating about 428 jobs. The plant will focus on assembling EV cargo trucks, positioning Pursat at the forefront of the country’s green mobility drive.

Energy Minister Keo Rottanak said the introduction of locally assembled EVs would cut fuel costs, strengthen trade competitiveness and deliver environmental benefits. “By shifting to electric vehicles assembled locally, Cambodia can reduce logistics costs and protect the environment,” he said.

The investment highlights Pursat’s growing role in the regional transition to sustainable transport, while reinforcing its industrial base. ZO Motors, backed by Japanese and Chinese partners, is among international firms tapping into Cambodia’s emerging EV sector.

Government figures show nearly 13,000 EVs registered nationwide by 2025, with authorities targeting around 800,000 by 2030. Officials say expanding EV manufacturing in Pursat will support long term goals including energy security, lower carbon emissions and progress toward carbon neutrality by 2050.