The local motoring industry is experiencing a whirlwind of activity with the unexpected pace of new car launches, particularly in the hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) segment. Many automotive journalists are struggling to keep up with the influx of new models being introduced by various companies.
The motivation behind these launches seems to be a combination of wanting to capitalize on the recently concluded Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit 2023 and to prepare for the upcoming Christmas shopping season. It is evident that these car companies are anticipating the country’s transition towards electrified vehicles and mobility.
The 11th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS) 2023, held over three days and inaugurated at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on October 19, showcased the country’s rapid move towards electrification. This event comes on the heels of last year’s Manila International Motor Show, which served as the debut for several Chinese companies specializing in EVs in the Philippines. Now, local consumers have the opportunity to explore new and cleaner options for their next car purchase.
A significant advancement in the promotion of EVs in the country occurred during the PEVS 2023, thanks to a comprehensive presentation by the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP). In addition to introducing new EV technologies and modern EVs from various car manufacturers, EVAP shared essential statistics regarding the EV landscape in the Philippines.
According to EVAP’s data, there are currently around 15,000 EVs on local roads. Of these, 354 are registered electric motorcycles and 88 are electric buses, with the remainder being cars and other vehicles. Additionally, there are 900 EV charging units strategically located at stations nationwide.
The PEVS 2023 event showcased a variety of EVs from well-known manufacturers such as Mitsubishi, BYD, Jetour, Mercedes Benz, MG Philippines, Jaguar, Lotus, Hyundai, Hongqi, and Nissan. However, there are several other car companies whose EVs and hybrid vehicles are also making significant contributions to the country’s electrification movement.
One example of a notable hybrid is the Nissan Kicks e-Power, which uses a gasoline-fed engine to generate electricity for its high-output electric motor. Many Japanese companies are adopting a cautious approach to full electrification, preferring to explore hybrid options first. This hesitancy is partly due to their longstanding commitment to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
Nonetheless, Nissan has recently announced its plans to introduce seven EV models by 2026, with the goal of having 80 percent of its lineup consist of full EVs by 2030. Nissan was one of the first Japanese automakers to release a full electric vehicle—the Leaf—in 2011, which was named “World Car of the Year.” Even after a decade, the Leaf continues to be promoted by Nissan as its flagship car for electrification. The latest version of the Leaf reportedly features a range of Intelligent Mobility features for safer and smarter driving, as well as a new 220-volt power source with a quick-charger.
Hongqi, a premier Chinese luxury car manufacturer, is also a newcomer to the EV industry. The company captivated audiences with the launch of two attractive EVs—the Hongqi E-HS9 and the Hongqi EQM5. EvoXterra, the local distributor for Hongqi (which operates under the Transnational Diversified Group founded by group chairman J. Roberto Delgado), emphasized that the E-HS9 is not just a fully electric SUV but a testament to Hongqi’s engineering prowess and its flagship model. The Hongqi E-QM5, on the other hand, represents the company’s commitment to providing next-generation mobility solutions to a broader audience.
Another latecomer to the EV display was Lotus, a leading European automaker. In collaboration with the Autohub Group of Companies led by Willy Tee-Ten, Lotus unveiled the Eletre hyper-SUV. The Eletre is a bold and innovative model, marking the first in a new category of pure electric performance SUVs. It incorporates the core principles and DNA of Lotus, accrued over 75 years of sports car design and engineering, and transforms them into an all-new lifestyle vehicle.
Moreover, the Dongfeng lineup of highly-rated EVs made a significant impact just before the opening of the PEVS 2023, courtesy of Legado Motors Inc. The launch event at the Metrotent in Pasig City featured a special appearance by President Bongbong Marcos Jr., who was invited by Legado chairman and former Governor Luis Chavit Singson to inaugurate the lineup of three flagship EVs: the Dongfeng Mini EV, Aerolus Huge Hybrid, and the Forthing Friday.
During the event, President Marcos articulated the government’s goal of increasing reliance on EVs in the near future. He emphasized that the country must aggressively reduce its dependence on imported oil, especially as it transitions to electric vehicles for mass transportation. President Marcos also highlighted the commitment to the Paris Agreement, where the goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by almost 70 percent between 2020 and 2030.
As wealthy business conglomerates begin to invest in EVs, a rapid shift toward electrified mobility in the country is anticipated. The Ayalas, through AC Motors Corporation, have initiated significant efforts in electrification, as seen in their proactive development of electric infrastructure nationwide. AC Motors has partnered with Kia Motors and has already sold out their quota of the Kia EV6, with many inquiries for the Kia EV9.
To meet the increasing demand for electric cars, AC Motors recently became the official distributor for BYD in the country. As a leading battery manufacturer, it is only a matter of time before BYD surpasses Tesla as the world leader in EV manufacturing.
In a strategic move, AC Motors announced a price reduction for the new Dolphin EV, from P1.688-million to P1.398-million, and adopted the CCS Type 2 plug standard. At this early stage, the anticipation is high as the country navigates the challenges and opportunities presented by electric vehicles. For all competitors and major players, the stage is set for an electrifying showdown.