Pickups are an integral part of the automotive landscape in Thailand, with a long history and a significant impact on the country's economy and culture. These versatile and durable vehicles are used for many different purposes.

Their popularity in the US is enormous, but why is it the same for the Thai market? That certainly is due to their low cost of ownership and also to their ability to withstand the roughest road conditions. In 2022, these vehicles accounted for 45.7% of all vehicles sold in Thailand.

A total of 388,296 pickup trucks were sold in the country in 2022. Two models, in particular, distinguished above the rest. In this article, we'll examine the role of pickups in the Thai automotive industry (and economy). You can make yourselves comfortable. We're embarking on a brief journey through Thai automotive history.

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A Look At The Rich History Of Pickup Trucks In Thailand

Pickup Truck in Thailand
Via: Shutterstock

The history of pickups in Thailand is about innovation and economic development. Their popularity in Thailand starts in the 1960s when Toyota saw an opportunity to tap into the growing demand for practical vehicles in the country. The company began producing pickups at its factory in Samut Prakan, just outside of Bangkok, and these vehicles quickly gained a reputation.

Over time, the pickup market in Thailand continued to grow and evolve. Other automakers, such as Ford and Isuzu, also entered the market and began producing pickups there. These companies invested heavily in research and development in order to produce vehicles that met the needs of Thai consumers. This surely helped to drive the growth of the automotive industry in the country.

Pickups and Thailand
Via: Shutterstock

Today, pickups are a major part of the automotive landscape in Thailand. They are also affordable to own and maintain, and this makes them a popular choice for so many people in Thailand.

But two models are the true protagonists - the Isuzu D-Max and Toyota Hilux (which is banned in the US).

Combined, these two models control 83% of the market share, with the Isuzu D-Max on top for the third year in a row. The D-Max model recorded 175,425 unit sales in 2022, making it the market leader with a 45.56% market share, while Toyota Hilux came in second place, with 148,101 units sold in the same year, accounting for 37.77% market share.

Top Factors Driving The Popularity Of Pickups In Thailand

People on a Pikcup Truck in Thailand
Via: Shutterstock

Pickups are the most popular vehicles in Thailand. Why? One of the main reasons is their versatility. In this country, pickups are used for a wide range of purposes, including personal transportation, commercial use, and working vehicles.

For this reason, some of them are built to be unbeatable. They are well-suited to the rough road conditions that are common in many parts of the country. Moreover, their open bed design makes them ideal for carrying heavy loads.

Toyota Hilux Tiger in Thailand
Via: Shutterstock

Pickups are also known for their durability. These vehicles are built to face the dangers of daily use and are designed to handle the demands of tough working conditions. This makes them a popular choice for people who need a trusty, long-lasting vehicle. This being said, you should seriously avoid some of them, of course.

Another factor that has contributed to the popularity of pickups in Thailand is their relatively low cost of ownership. These vehicles are affordable, and they are also quite inexpensive to maintain. So, naturally, they're an appealing choice for so many people. All these factors have helped to make them a mainstay of the Thai automotive landscape.

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Pickup Trucks Are More Than Just Transportation In Thailand

pickup truck in thailand
Via: Shutterstock

In Thailand, pickups are an integral part of the country's economy and culture. These strong vehicles have played a vital role in the development of the country, and their impact can be seen in many different areas. Sometimes you can do unimaginable things with a pickup truck.

The automotive industry is a major contributor to the Thai economy, and pickups account for a significant portion of total vehicle sales. This has helped to drive the growth of the industry, creating employment opportunities and attracting investment from other sectors. The popularity of pickups in Thailand has also had an impact on trade, with many of these vehicles being exported to other countries around the world.

Isuzu Pickup Truck in Thailand
Via: Shutterstock

But why be always so material? Let’s tell the truth: these vehicles are a common sight on the roads of Thailand because they're loyal friends to people, and if you treat them well they can last even for decades.

In short, in Thailand, pickups are a way of life, and we hope that they will continue to be an important part of the Thai landscape for many years to come.