Deputy PM Ekniti says the Finance Ministry is restructuring car excise tax so that carmakers with factories in Thailand are treated fairly against imports from FTA partners that enter at lower tariffs. The aim covers EV, hybrid and combustion vehicles. The detailed plan is due by September 2026, before cabinet review. The battery excise change (currently a flat 8%, possibly tiered) may come later. For auto parts makers, dealers and suppliers, the key point is that local-production status will shape car tax, so watch the September proposal before changing sourcing or investment plans.