Power Wheels Magazine A Notch Above
EVAP mounts biggest Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit in its 13th edition.
The Philippines is firmly on its path to achieving more sustainable mobility as both the public and private sectors intensify their efforts to promote widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). The enactment of the Electric Vehicle Development Act (EVIDA) in 2022 has catalyzed continued sector growth, attracting increased investments from local and international private companies eager to capitalize on the country’s EV potential.
Major Developments and New Investments
Recently, the Board of Investments (BoI) announced promising developments with a new Chinese delegation exploring the possibility of establishing local manufacturing facilities for EVs and renewable energy equipment. While specific details remain under wraps, the BoI has assured that these negotiations are likely to materialize, signaling a significant boost to the local EV ecosystem.
Simultaneously, the Department of Energy (DOE) has revealed that it has received expressions of interest from undisclosed private investors to deploy approximately 4,000 EV charging stations (EVCS) nationwide within the next two to three years. This initiative aims to address the critical need for a reliable charging infrastructure, a key component for increasing EV adoption.
Corporate Commitments and Strategic Initiatives
In June, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp announced plans to infuse an additional ?7 billion into the country over the next five years. This investment aligns with the government’s push for EV adoption and renewable energy initiatives, emphasizing the company’s commitment to sustainable mobility.
During the same month, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) pushed the Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy (EVIS), which, upon approval, could generate up to ?11.4 trillion in economic output and create nearly 700,000 local jobs. These jobs are expected to span EV assembly, battery manufacturing, EVCS installation, and maintenance services, further fueling the sector’s growth.
International Support and Innovative Infrastructure
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has committed $100 million (approximately ?5.84 billion) to support the local EV sector through a financing partnership with Ayala Corporation, operator of ACMobility, one of the Philippines’ largest EV distributors. The funds will be used to procure EV charging stations and expand the fleet of electric vehicles for commercial use.
Meanwhile, Australia’s GIGA Factory, set to open in September 2024 at New Clark City, marks a significant milestone with its first EV battery manufacturing facility in the region. With an initial capacity to produce 2 gigawatt-hours of batteries annually—enough to power up to 18,000 EVs—the plant is expected to boost local manufacturing capabilities and attract further investments in renewable energy and EV industries.
A Clear Roadmap for the Future
These investments are part of a broader strategic framework outlined in the Comprehensive Roadmap for the Electric Vehicle Industry (CREVI). The plan aims to deploy up to 7,300 EV charging stations by 2028 and over 20,400 by 2040, supporting a projected fleet of 2.5 million EVs on Philippine roads by that year.
A Pivotal Moment for the Sector
“After championing legislation and national policies to foster the growth of our local EV sector, we recognize that we are at a crucial juncture,” says EVAP President Edmund Araga. “Reliable and extensive charging infrastructure is essential, as is the development of more efficient, accessible battery technologies. We are committed to forging partnerships with the private sector and investors to accelerate progress.”
Araga emphasizes that ongoing investments are vital for nation-building—creating jobs, boosting economic outputs, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing mobility amid volatile fuel prices.
A Call for Continued Collaboration
“EVAP and the entire EV community remain dedicated to supporting the government’s efforts. We pledge to work collaboratively with stakeholders to deliver safe, reliable, and efficient mobility solutions for Filipinos. Our sector is committed to bringing positive news and progress amidst the current challenges,” Araga affirms.
Showcasing Innovation at the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit
These developments will be spotlighted at the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS), scheduled from October 23 to 25 at the SMX Convention Center Manila. Under the theme ‘Charge Ahead, Ignite the EVolution,’ PEVS 2025 continues its tradition of showcasing cutting-edge innovations, technologies, and models from leading EV brands, reinforcing the Philippines’ commitment to a sustainable transportation future.
EVAP is presenting PEVS 2025 with partners BYD Cars Philippines, Omoda & Jaecoo Motor Philippines Inc, United Asia Automotive Group Inc (UAAGI), GAC Dangdang, and the Department of Energy.
Visit the PEVS website (https://pevsummit.com) to learn more and to register for free.
