Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Lepas Unveils Two New EV Models at Big Motor Sale 2026

Premium EV brand Lepas launches two new models—the L8 and L6 SIVP with advanced autonomous parking—in Thailand by year-end 2026, backed by expanded dealer networks and a shift toward domestic production at its Rayong factory.

Lepas Unveils Two New EV Models at Big Motor Sale 2026
1h ago Khaosod

Premium electric vehicle brand Lepas is pushing into the Thai market in the second half of 2026, announcing the launch of two new models: the Lepas L8 and Lepas L6 SIVP (Super Intelligent Valet Parking), featuring advanced parking systems and driver assistance technology. The vehicles are scheduled for rollout by year-end, accompanied by an expanded dealer and after-sales service network nationwide and domestic production readiness at the Rayong factory.

The business plan was unveiled at Big Motor Sale 2026, held August 21–30 at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre, with Lepas offering special promotions and new vehicle options. The brand is strengthening itself through three key strategies: product expansion, dealer network and after-sales service development, and preparation of a domestic production base in Thailand.

Lepas is transitioning from importing complete built-up vehicles (CBU) to establishing a domestic CKD (completely knocked down) assembly operation. Chalal Wang, Country Director of Lepas Thailand, said the company's growth strategy will move from CBU imports toward local manufacturing, supported by the Lepas Care program and expanded after-sales service networks to assure customers across all aspects of vehicle ownership and maintenance.

"A great brand requires a clear growth path. Our expansion strategy begins with CBU imports and progresses to a domestic CKD production base, backed by the Lepas Care after-sales service network to provide customers with complete confidence," Wang said.

For Lepas, vehicles are more than transport; they are "value partners" combining design, technology, safety, and driver identity to create travel experiences suited to modern consumer lifestyles.

Two key new models planned for launch this year are the Lepas L8 and Lepas L6 SIVP (Super Intelligent Valet Parking), a variant of the existing L6 that has found market success in Thailand. The L6 SIVP features Intelligent Pilot technology designed to enhance driving convenience across urban traffic, highway cruising, parking, and long-distance travel. Its standout feature is the SIVP system, which combines Automated Parking Assist (APA) and Remote Parking Assist (RPA) to simplify daily parking. It also includes Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for added convenience and driving confidence.

Lepas is expanding its dealer network, targeting 50 locations nationwide to support brand growth. Beyond product development, the company is strengthening its dealer and after-sales service infrastructure to back its Thai market expansion.

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Community

T-POP Group PERSES Launches as Mellolica's First Friend

T-POP group PERSES launched as Mellolica's official "First Friend" at Central World, with exclusive skincare products featuring custom scents designed by each band member and a mini concert performance.

T-POP Group PERSES Launches as Mellolica's First Friend
1h ago Khaosod

Mellolica held its "Mellolica Moment of YaY! x PERSES" launch event at the Eden Plaza on Level 1 of Central World, introducing the five-member T-POP group PERSES as "The First Friend of Mellolica." The band members—Jang, Ne, Krittin, Palm, and Pluggy—drew a packed crowd of devoted fans who came to support them up close. The event featured exclusive merchandise including limited-edition Mellolica x PERSES skincare products with custom scents designed by each band member: Krittin's Arctic Romance, Pluggy's Bunny Blossom, Palm's Sweet Puppy and Morning Bloom, and Jang's Secret Garden, plus seven collectible VR Card variations available randomly with purchases. The evening concluded with a mini concert from the five members, which Mellolica positioned as a warm-up before the group's upcoming full concert "PERSES 'Uncensored' Concert," with the brand promising ongoing surprises throughout the year for fans.

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National

Thailand Faces Indonesia in Asian Championship Volleyball

Thailand's women's volleyball team plays Indonesia today at 2 p.m. in a critical Group B match of the 2026 AVC Continental Championship in Tianjin, China, where the winner earns an automatic berth to the 2028 Olympics.

Thailand Faces Indonesia in Asian Championship Volleyball
1h ago Khaosod

Thailand's women's volleyball team faces Indonesia today at 2 p.m. in a crucial Group B match of the 2026 AVC Women's Volleyball Continental Championship. Coach Anucha Kaewtunyaroj said before the match that Indonesia's recent win over Kazakhstan means the team must stay disciplined, commit fewer errors, and maintain momentum to put pressure on their opponents.

The tournament takes place at the Tianjin Olympic Center Gymnasium in Tianjin, China, from August 21-30, 2026, with 12 nations competing. Thailand is grouped with Australia, Indonesia, and Kazakhstan. In their opening match, Thailand defeated Australia 3-0 (25-15, 25-15, 25-18) to secure three points. Indonesia beat Kazakhstan 3-0 (25-22, 25-22, 25-23).

Thailand's head-to-head record against Indonesia in the last five meetings is 5-0, with recent wins on August 8 and July 31, 2024, and December 14, 2023.

Thailand's remaining matches: August 24 at 2 p.m. vs. Indonesia, and August 25 at 9 a.m. vs. Kazakhstan. Thai fans can watch live on Monomax Sports Channel 29 (free TV).

The 2026 championship carries major significance because the winning nation earns an automatic berth to the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, California. Teams finishing in the top three also secure qualification for the 2027 Women's Volleyball World Championship.

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Police

Gang of 15 Attacks Pattani Subdistrict Office, Sets Fires and Plants Bombs

A gang of at least 15 armed attackers stormed a government office in Pattani Province on August 23, setting fires and detonating explosives that destroyed four municipal vehicles and damaged the building. Investigators suspect involvement b

Gang of 15 Attacks Pattani Subdistrict Office, Sets Fires and Plants Bombs
1h ago Khaosod

At least 15 armed assailants stormed the Pho Ming Subdistrict Municipality office in Panare District, Pattani Province on August 23 at around 9 p.m., binding and restraining two security guards before splitting into separate teams to carry out arson and bomb attacks. Preliminary investigation confirmed four municipal vehicles sustained damage: one fire engine, one garbage truck, one pickup truck, and one ambulance. The attackers used explosives and incendiary devices to destroy vehicles in the parking garage and set fires inside the office building. They also detonated an improvised explosive device at the guard post, causing structural damage and scattering shrapnel across the area. Only the quick response of nearby firefighters prevented the office building itself from being fully consumed by flames.

Investigators identified that two municipal security staff were on duty at the guard post when the assault began. The attackers, armed with guns, entered from a wooded area behind the building, immediately captured and restrained the guards using cable ties, then dispersed to carry out their coordinated attack. One group broke into the vehicle garage, smashing windows, pouring fuel into cabins, and igniting all four parked vehicles. Another group pried open the office building's steel window grilles, entered, spread fuel inside, and set fires with the apparent intent to destroy the entire structure. A third team planted a timed explosive device at the guard post; approximately thirty minutes after the attackers withdrew toward the rear of the compound, the device detonated, destroying the guard house and sending shrapnel across the surrounding area.

After the attack, firefighters from neighboring subdistricts arrived to contain the blaze. Officials are currently collecting evidence from closed-circuit camera footage and the scene itself. Preliminary assessment suggests the attack was carried out not only by a known militant faction responsible for previous attacks in the area, but also involved previously unidentified individuals or supporters who remain without arrest warrants and may have served logistical and reconnaissance roles.

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Police

Railways Rush to Inspect Bomb Damage, Plan Quick Repairs

An explosion damaged railway track between Maru Bo and Tan Yong Mas stations; bomb disposal teams will inspect the site before repairs begin, with service expected to resume within three hours of clearance.

Railways Rush to Inspect Bomb Damage, Plan Quick Repairs
1h ago Khaosod

State Railways of Thailand reported on August 24 that an explosion occurred at kilometer 1090/6-7 on the railway line between Maru Bo and Tan Yong Mas stations. Bomb disposal and investigative units are scheduled to inspect the site around noon to collect evidence and confirm safety. SRT has already positioned staff, labor, materials, and maintenance equipment near the blast area to begin repairs immediately after clearance. Once the investigation is complete and the area is declared safe, the Tan Yong Mas maintenance branch will require approximately three hours to repair and reinforce the damaged track section to restore safe operation. SRT will closely monitor developments and assess safety conditions before reopening the line, prioritizing passenger and staff safety throughout the process.

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National

Government Mobilizes Flood Relief and Recovery Efforts

Thai government officials led by Prime Minister Anutin met in Nan to coordinate flood relief efforts across northern and northeastern regions, issuing six directives for immediate assistance and long-term recovery as the situation gradually

Government Mobilizes Flood Relief and Recovery Efforts
1h ago Khaosod

Agriculture Minister Suriya Chungrungreung led the Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry team in a meeting to monitor the flooding crisis across northern and northeastern areas. The session, chaired by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and attended by Deputy Prime Minister Yossanan Wongswaddi and Defence Minister General Adulyadej Boontharmchai, was held at Nan Provincial Hall and conducted via video conference with relevant regional agencies.

The Prime Minister expressed condolences to families of flood victims and ordered all agencies to intensify relief, assistance, and recovery operations. While the overall situation is improving, authorities must remain vigilant for heavy rainfall, flash floods, and landslides. The Prime Minister issued six key directives covering relief and rehabilitation, weather monitoring and forecasting, water situation tracking, flash flood and landslide warning, transport and infrastructure restoration, and long-term problem-solving measures.

Agriculture Minister Suriya also tasked Deputy Agriculture Minister Watchraphol Khaokhram with visiting Pua district in Nan to assess flood damage, gather farmer feedback, and compile comprehensive data for targeted recovery and aid measures across all affected occupational groups.

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National

Former Thai Star Suchao Retires to Launch Football Academy

Former Thai footballer Suchao Nuchnum, a 25-time domestic champion, retires at 43 to establish the Kob Suchao Academy in Kanchanaburi and develop young talent through school football programs.

Former Thai Star Suchao Retires to Launch Football Academy
1h ago Khaosod

Suchao Nuchnum, 43, a former Thai national footballer, has officially confirmed his retirement from professional football after achieving considerable success, including 25 domestic championships. He revealed that he is now focusing on establishing the Kob Suchao Academy to develop young footballers in Kanchanaburi province. In addition, he will establish a football team at Wisutthirangsi School, the province's first secondary school to do so.

The former player, known as "Prince Frog," also indicated that he may join Thailand's youth national team coaching staff in the future. Although several clubs from Thai League 1, 2, and 3 have approached him to continue playing, he decided that retiring and dedicating himself fully to football academy development would be a better choice.

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National

Toyota Pledges Long-Term Customer Care From Purchase to Service

Toyota has expanded its customer support commitment, guaranteeing spare parts availability for at least 15 years after production ends and emphasizing long-term care through financing, insurance, and nationwide service networks across Thail

Toyota Pledges Long-Term Customer Care From Purchase to Service
1h ago Khaosod

Toyota has updated its commitment to customer support before and after purchase, ensuring peace of mind throughout vehicle ownership. The company guarantees spare parts availability for at least 15 years after production of any model ends.

Toyota held a mini press conference at the Big Motor Sale 2026 at Bangkok International Trade Fair, featuring senior executives Suphakorn Ratnawarahah (Deputy Managing Director), Nattharot Srinivej (Assistant Executive), and Anyya Ploykitikul (Assistant Managing Director) of Toyota Motor Thailand. The event showcased a virtual showroom and service centre to illustrate Toyota's comprehensive customer care philosophy under the tagline "Buy with ease, use with ease."

Toyota emphasizes that purchasing a vehicle represents choosing "confidence and trust" that will accompany customers throughout their ownership. The company aims to deliver not just reliable vehicles but comprehensive care and service. This commitment is built on five pillars of confidence: product reliability for all uses, easy ownership through flexible financing, peace of mind through standard after-sales service, expanded options including ECO Pack and Toyota Sure programmes, and returning value to society.

Toyota offers diverse financing programmes tailored to different customer needs, whether seeking low interest rates or manageable monthly instalments. The company maintains consistent nationwide service standards through over 25,000 trained personnel and 450 standard service centres, plus 250 body and paint shops across Thailand. Toyota Parts Centre and Accessory Plus (TPCAP) stocks and distributes over 120,000 genuine spare parts, with guaranteed availability for at least 15 years after model production ends.

The company provides Toyota Care PHYD insurance with discounts based on driving behaviour, renewable for up to eight years with genuine parts repairs at authorized centres. The TCFR+ programme extends warranty coverage up to eight years or 225,000 kilometres for customers maintaining regular service schedules. Toyota's approach reflects its philosophy of long-term partnership with customers.

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National

Four Nations to Compete in Thailand U-17 Cup

Six youth soccer teams from Thailand, Japan, Vietnam, and Indonesia will compete in the TEIJIN U-17 New Generation Cup at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom from August 27–30, 2026. The tournament aims to develop young talent and foster fo

Four Nations to Compete in Thailand U-17 Cup
1h ago Khaosod

The TEIJIN U-17 New Generation Cup 2026 in Thailand will showcase emerging young footballers under 17 years old from August 27–30, 2026 at Mahidol University's stadium in Nakhon Pathom. The tournament, held for the third consecutive year, is organized by the Japan Dream Football Association under the patronage of the Thai Football Association. Last year's champions were Chonburi FC.

Six youth teams from four countries will compete: three Thai clubs—Assumption United, Prime FC, and Chonburi FC—alongside three international sides: Takigawa II from Japan, PVF Vietnam, and Persija Jakarta from Indonesia. The championship final is scheduled for Sunday, August 30, 2026 from 12:00–13:20, followed by a closing ceremony and awards presentation.

Masao Kiba, tournament director and president of the Japan Dream Football Association, stated that the competition aims to develop emerging footballers from Japan and ASEAN nations, providing international competition experience and fostering cross-border exchange through football. He expressed hope that many athletes from the tournament will advance to play in Japan's J-League in the near future.

Fans can follow all matches live on YouTube through the official U-17 NGC channel and receive updates via the U-17 NGC Facebook and Instagram pages. The tournament is supported by Teijin Polyester (Thailand) Limited as the main sponsor, along with the Thai Football Association, Molten Thailand, C.B.TACT Thailand, Morishita Jintan, Thonburi United, and Mahidol University.

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Police

Surat Thani MP Charged in Online Gambling Network Case

Surat Thani MP Chonnapathat Nakasam was charged with operating an illegal online gambling website and involvement in transnational organized crime, with prosecutors finding evidence linking him to a billion-baht gambling network in Southern

Surat Thani MP Charged in Online Gambling Network Case
1h ago Khaosod

The Department of Special Investigation filed charges against Chonnapathat Nakasam, a Surat Thani MP from the Palang Pracharath Party, in connection with an illegal online gambling operation. DSI investigators presented the case summary to the Special Cases Prosecution Office on August 24, 2025, at the Supreme Prosecutor's Office on Ratchadaphisek Road.

The Supreme Prosecutor found that some offenses may have occurred outside Thai territory, prompting the addition of two charges under Criminal Procedure Code Section 20. The first charge is operating an illegal gambling website under Criminal Code Section 209, which carries a sentence of up to 7 years imprisonment and a fine not exceeding 140,000 baht. The second is involvement in a transnational organized crime group under the Organized Transnational Crime Prevention and Suppression Act of 2013, carrying 4–15 years imprisonment and fines of 80,000–300,000 baht, or both.

Nakasam arrived with his legal counsel and stated he was submitting a justice petition on nine grounds. He emphasized that one key concern is asking investigators to clarify the nature of his alleged involvement in the transnational crime charges. He said he had previously raised fairness concerns during DSI's investigation but received no clarity.

"I don't want to point fingers at any agency, but I hope that in my justice petition, the organization that holds my trust will ensure fairness," he said.

Regarding parliamentary immunity, Nakasam clarified that charges filed carry no immunity protection. Immunity applies only during investigation and when a summons is issued. He denied having any special privileges.

Nakasam said he faces concurrent proceedings at both prosecution and court levels but does not view this as political. Instead, he compared it to a storm breaking loose—as a fighter, he must slowly unravel each problem and see this as an opportunity to clear his name of public suspicion that he abused parliamentary immunity, which he said he never has. "I am simply a citizen subject to the same law as everyone else," he added.

After surrendering, Nakasam filed the justice petition with the Special Cases Prosecutor's Office. The case was distributed to four special prosecutors, and a hearing is scheduled for September 28.

The case stems from an earlier arrest of a major online gambling network in Southern Thailand with over one billion baht in circulation. Investigators found financial links to Nakasam. The DSI launched "Operation Gameflow" on March 5, 2025, conducting raids at ten locations across four provinces.

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National

Security Panel Slams Failure to Arrest Southern Border Attackers

A parliamentary security panel criticized the government's failure to arrest perpetrators of coordinated attacks on 76 locations across Thailand's four southern border provinces on August 24, citing operational and intelligence failures dur

Security Panel Slams Failure to Arrest Southern Border Attackers
1h ago Khaosod

At a parliament session on August 24, Montian Songprecha, chair of the State Security Committee's subcommittee on national security and border affairs, condemned the coordinated attacks that struck 76 locations across the four southern border provinces—Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Satun—simultaneously. Officials admitted there was no intelligence warning of the violence, and the 22-year southern insurgency has never seen a peaceful year. Montian noted the synchronized nature of the attacks across all four provinces suggested deliberate timing, possibly around significant dates, to send signals and damage the government's credibility after its recent intensified crackdowns on illegal activities.

Montian criticized the response, stating that attacks lasting 12 hours with no arrests represent operational failure. He confirmed the prime minister had instructed him to investigate what went wrong with intelligence gathering and security coordination. The committee will convene on August 27 with six agencies: the National Security Council, the Internal Security Command, the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Centre, Internal Security Operations Command Region 4, Royal Thai Police Region 9, and the National Intelligence Agency. He identified four root problems driving unrest: narcotics trafficking, smuggling, annual budget allocations reaching tens of millions of baht, and territorial disputes—issues requiring reasoned dialogue rather than violence against innocent civilians.

Spokesperson Peerapol Kanokwilai, from the Economic Party, added that insurgents are targeting both the economy and government credibility at a time when the BRN militant group is undergoing generational change, budget allocations are under review, and drug suppression operations are ongoing.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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