“EV adoption is continually increasing mostly because of government support that is encouraging car makers to bring in more EVs and hybrids, as well as the expansion of the charging infrastructure.” This according to Edmund A. Araga, president of the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP).
“The 12th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS) is designed to further ignite a powerful call to action for a transformative shift in transformation and mobility,” he added while pointing out how his group is not seeking to extend the zero-tariff policy on EVs past 2028. The EVAP chief said that extending the tariff would encourage imports, instead of developing local manufacturing. He did acknowledge that Executive Order (EO) No. 12, which temporarily reduced tariffs on EVs to zero until 2028, has helped improve EV sales in the Philippines.
The 12th PEVS proved to be more than just a showcase of the latest EV models and technologies; it served as a critical platform for driving the adoption and expansion of electric vehicles in the country. Through government announcements, industry discussions, and public engagement, the event highlighted the growing momentum of the Philippine EV sector. Open forums and panel discussions also fostered increased collaboration between government agencies, industry players, and research institutions, creating a united front to accelerate EV adoption.
Expanding charging infrastructure remained a key priority, with discussions focused on addressing range anxiety and encouraging wider EV use. The event also played a crucial role in raising public awareness about the benefits of electric vehicles, contributing to a growing understanding and acceptance of this sustainable transportation solution.
Hyundai, MG and Nissan went the extra mile to set up dual booths simultaneously at the 2024 Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) and at the PEVS. ACMobility owned the largest piece of real estate at the show, displaying all of its vehicles and charging capabilities and equipment.
Vietnamese car maker VinFast also had a display of the VF 5, the luxurious VF 7 and the VF 3.
BYD’s booth showcased all its complete line up including the ATTO3, Dolphin, Sea Lion, Tang Hybrid. The highly anticipated Seal was launched and the panel discussion on the “Expansion of Charging Infrastructure in the Philippines,” led by ACMobility Head of Infrastructure, Carla Buencamino discussed how to make EV infrastructure in the country more accessible and convenient.
A key highlight of the PEVS show was the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) announcement of the forthcoming Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy (EVIS). Expected before the end of 2024, this strategy will provide crucial fiscal and non-fiscal support to bolster local EV manufacturing, charging infrastructure development, and research initiatives. The DTI emphasized its commitment to fostering a robust local EV industry, aiming to position the Philippines as a regional leader in EV production.
The Department of Energy (DOE) also reinforced its dedication to supporting the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) and the Comprehensive Roadmap for the Electric Vehicle Industry (CREVI), frameworks designed to cultivate a thriving EV ecosystem in the Philippines. The DOE reported a significant increase in registered EVs, signaling a positive trend in adoption.
Despite a slight dip in EV sales in the first part of 2024, the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) expressed optimism for the future, citing new model launches and strong government support as key drivers of growth. EVAP also advocated for the extension of zero import duties on EVs beyond 2028 to further stimulate market expansion.
