PHNOM PENH, March 6 (Xinhua) -- Several Chinese automakers such as BYD, Forthing, Changan, and GAC were on display at the biggest annual Auto Show 2026 that kicked off in the capital of Cambodia on Friday, attracting crowds of car lovers.

Lim Sreytouch, sales manager at Forthing Cambodia, said the exhibition was a good opportunity to introduce Forthing electric vehicles (EVs) to consumers.

"Forthing electric cars have gained strong support from consumers in Cambodia because they save a lot on operating expenses and benefit the environment," she told Xinhua.

Sreytouch said that at the three-day auto show, the company showcases several latest models, including pure EV and plug-in hybrid EV.

"EVs have very low maintenance costs because they don't have as many moving parts as an internal combustion vehicle," she said. "The price of EVs is also competitive that can be afforded by Cambodians."

Hay Puthearoth, sales manager at GAC Cambodia, said many local consumers have shifted to Chinese EVs, which offer significant savings on fuel expenses and create significantly less carbon emissions, noise and air pollution than traditional vehicles.

"We have received good results in our sales and the GAC brand is widely recognized by consumers and members of the public in Cambodia," he told Xinhua. "Here, it's not only an auto show venue, but also a platform that customers can get the details of the cars and test-drive them."

Puthearoth said EVs have become popular in Cambodia because they have modern high-tech options. Moreover, they save users' operating costs and provide a comfortable driving experience.

"Modern EVs are packed with advanced technology designed to enhance safety, convenience, and connectivity," he said.

Cambodia has encouraged people to use EVs and electric motorcycles, saying that they are environmentally friendly and can save money.

A total of 9,065 EVs, 3,203 electric motorcycles, and 700 electric three-wheelers were registered from 2021 to 2025 in the Southeast Asian country, said a report from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport.

Phan Rim, a spokesperson for the ministry, said the government is committed to having 40 percent of EVs and 70 percent of electric motorbikes by 2050 to reduce carbon emissions.

To achieve the target, the government has reduced import duties on EVs since 2021 to nearly 50 percent of taxes on traditional vehicles, he said.