With local car buyers still hesitant to transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), various organisations and policies are working to promote the adoption of electrified mobility in the Philippines.

These efforts have introduced EVs and HEVs to the Philippine market and provided ownership incentives.

The EVIDA law and its role in EV adoption

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian is the principal author of the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), a law designed to promote the growth of the EV sector in the Philippines.

One of its key provisions is the suspension of tariffs on imported EVs, enabling more competitive pricing and making electrified vehicles more accessible to local consumers.

Beyond price adjustments, the law provides various incentives for both manufacturers and end users.

A provision under EVIDA exempts EV and HEV owners from the number coding scheme, offering added convenience to those who choose these vehicles.

The role of the electric vehicle association of the Philippines (EVAP)

Since its establishment in 2009, the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) has been engaged in EV promotion in the country.

Under the leadership of Ferdinand Raquelsantos, EVAP has worked to connect industry players and advocate for policies that support electrified mobility.

One of EVAP's initiatives is the Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS), an annual event that highlights developments in the local EV industry.

What began as a small gathering at the Meralco grounds in Ortigas has since expanded into a larger event at the SMX Convention Centre in Pasay, with multiple brands exhibiting their EV technologies and offerings.

The Development of EV Infrastructure and Market Expansion

EV infrastructure in the Philippines, particularly charging stations, remains limited, but developments are underway. In September 2023, the country inaugurated its first EV battery plant in New Clark City.

The Australian-owned StB Giga Factory aims to produce batteries for 18,000 EVs by 2030, contributing to the localisation of EV production and supply.

The presence of EVs on Philippine roads has increased compared to the pre-pandemic period. The pandemic influenced consumer behaviour, with some individuals prioritising environmental considerations. With zero emissions, EVs have gained interest among specific consumer segments.

For many Filipinos, the initial experience with EVs likely came from fully electric public utility vehicles (PUVs) in the early 2010s.

Boracay was among the first locations to introduce electric tricycles. Public transport initiatives have provided practical demonstrations of EV use, influencing purchasing decisions.

The role of automotive brands in EV adoption

The availability of EVs in the Philippine automotive market has been influenced by brands introducing electrified models.

Toyota, the country's leading automotive brand, has been offering hybrid vehicles. The introduction of the Toyota Prius in 2014 familiarised Filipinos with HEVs, and Toyota Motor Philippines now provides a range of HEVs across different market segments.

Honda was also an early adopter of hybrid technology with the Honda CR-Z, a hybrid hatchback featuring the brand's Integrated Motor Assist system. The company continues to offer hybrid variants of the Civic and CR-V with its e:HEV hybrid technology.

Nissan has introduced the Nissan Leaf, the first globally recognised EV to enter the local market.

Additionally, Nissan's e-Power technology, available in the Nissan Kicks, serves as a transitional option for consumers moving from ICE vehicles to EVs by eliminating range concerns while maintaining an electric driving experience.

Mitsubishi, a member of EVAP, continues to promote EV technology through events such as PEVS. The company offers the Outlander PHEV, a plug-in hybrid SUV available to Filipino consumers.

New market entrants have introduced additional options. Dongfeng has been active in the electrified utility vehicle segment, while Hyundai and Kia have launched their Ioniq and EV models.

Chery offers HEVs and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) across various segments, while Jetour's Ice Cream EV, a compact electric hatchback, has entered the market.

Other brands include MG, now under SAIC, which offers full EV crossovers, and BYD, which has expanded its presence through AC Mobility.

BYD recently launched the Shark 6 DMO, an electrified pickup truck. Tesla has also established an official presence in the Philippines.

The road ahead for electrified mobility in the Philippines

With industry developments, government initiatives, and market expansion, EV adoption in the Philippines is progressing.

Further infrastructure improvements and incentives are necessary for wider adoption. The number of HEVs and battery EVs on the road continues to increase, reflecting changes in consumer interest.

As more automakers introduce electrified models and EV infrastructure develops, the transition to electrified mobility in the Philippines is ongoing.

Continued collaboration between the government and the automotive industry is expected to influence the future of EV adoption.