The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is more than just a trend. In the Philippines, the EV market continues to grow at an exciting pace. In the first quarter of 2023 alone, there was a six-fold increase in sales, which experts expect to reach more than 6.6 million by 2030. EVs benefit you in a number of ways. They're energy-efficient, fuel-free, and eligible for a number of government-sponsored benefits. If you're interested in learning more about electric mobility, this article sheds light on the benefits of electric cars while addressing some common challenges they face.
Switching to an EV: 4 Electric Car Benefits You Need to Know
Although you may already have a gas-powered car you're used to driving, there are several compelling reasons why switching to EVs could help you in the long run. Here are a few EV benefits you should consider if you're still unconvinced about investing in one.
1. It helps maintain cleaner air
Air pollution is a serious problem in the Philippines. Fortunately, EVs allow you to minimize your environmental impact since they don't emit the common pollutants observed along busy roads like EDSA. This way, you can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate climate change, and support green jobs in the country.
2. It reduces car expenses
One of the most evident benefits of electric cars is that it's a practical way to avoid the financial pain that rising fuel prices regularly cause. Aside from the growing number of charging stations, your home can become your own personal "fueling" station. For instance, each BYD vehicle sold in the Philippines comes with two types of chargers: a portable charger and a 7KW charger.
The portable charger has an AC 2.3KW output and can be safely plugged into any 220V outlet at home. However, using this will take a long time to charge the Atto 3 from 10% to 80%—about 15 to 21 hours—depending on the home power output and the variant of Atto 3. The 7KW charger, on the other hand, can be installed at the owner’s home and can charge the Atto 3 from 10% to 80% in just 5 to 6 hours. This means you can charge your car overnight—much like how you would charge a smartphone—and enjoy a full day of driving.
Besides fuel, you can also expect to save on maintenance costs. There are no more spark plug or oil change concerns with EVs, as they don't heavily rely on a combustion system.
3. It allows you to enjoy incentives and exemptions
One of the most appealing advantages of electric cars in the Philippines is the number of incentives you can receive as an owner and driver. The most prominent law involving EVs is the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA Law). The numerous fiscal and non-fiscal incentives may include the following:
•Priority vehicle registration and registration renewal
• Exception from the number-coding scheme
• 100% excise tax exemption for fully electric vehicles, 50% for hybrid vehicles
4. It offers an impressive driving experience
EVs provide a unique driving experience. Instead of hearing the roar of the engine as you step on the accelerator pedal, you'll only hear the gentle hum of the battery propelling you forward. But don't confuse the quiet for a weak engine! EVs are known to be impressively powerful. For one, BYD's Atto 3 model delivers a best-in-class 204ps horsepower and 310Nm torque, along with its ability to go from 0 to 100km/h in less than 8 seconds for both its variants.
How to Tackle Challenges of Driving an EV in the Philippines
It's normal to feel reluctant about making the switch to EVs in the Philippines. However, the challenges around EVs in the country are getting easier to overcome over time. Here is a quick EV guide for addressing some of the potential challenges that come with electric vehicles.
Charging availability
Charging stations are definitely not as prominent as gas stations—yet. Fortunately, initiatives are underway to enhance accessibility. ACMobility, one of the leaders in this effort, has committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. It has rolled out over 20 charging stations across seven cities in Luzon and plans to set up 100 free charging stations by 2024. EV manufacturers, such as ACMobility's Infrastructure team, are also working with real estate developers to provide multi-story charging solutions for condominium residents who own EVs.
Range anxiety
Since charging stations aren't yet as common as fueling stations, it's natural to worry about how far a single charge can get you. It's helpful to plan your routes ahead of time to avoid wasting energy on winding roads. When you're in a purchasing mindset, one of the most practical EV tips for ensuring a good investment is to take a deep dive into the manufacturer. Before producing electric vehicles, BYD began developing rechargeable batteries in 1995. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the most reliable global battery manufacturers.
Their Atto 3 line of EVs can go as far as 480 KM on a full charge. That means you can drive from Makati to Tagaytay and back four times without worrying about running out of power.
Safety
Safety should always be a priority when buying a new car, and the same holds for EVs. Modern EVs have industry-standard, built-in safety features to ensure a smooth drive every time. For example, BYD's Blade Battery has passed numerous tests that assure industry-leading safety in a range of situations, such as punctures and floods.
Car service
Many drivers worry about where to bring their vehicles in case of a problem. If the EV market in the Philippines is so new, where could you bring your car if you need repairs? Businesses are constantly establishing EV service centers in key locations to ensure convenient access to maintenance services. BYD already has a center in Quezon Avenue and Makati, with ones in Alabang, Pampanga, and Cebu opening soon. Moreover, the simplicity of EVs—requiring service for only a few parts—adds to the overall convenience of car maintenance.
BYD also offers roadside assistance for six years to ensure that you're always satisfied with your EV on the road.
Prepare to Say Farewell, Fuel
Electric vehicles are becoming more common with each passing year because of the growing number of excellent EV choices and the country's improving EV infrastructure. Substantial fuel savings could already be a compelling reason to buy an EV today, but tax benefits and number-coding exceptions—among many other incentives—further sweeten the deal. That said, there are still challenges to overcome in owning an EV. But that doesn't mean they'll remain hurdles forever. Governments, private companies, and EV manufacturers are working hard together to make owning an EV in the Philippines much easier. If you're considering which EV should be your first, consider BYD. Since August 2023, we've partnered with ACMobility as a distributor to help make EVs more accessible to Filipinos. The models we currently offer are the Dolphin, Han, Tang, Atto 3, Sealion 6 DM-i, Seal EV, Seagull and the Seal 5 DM-i.
Explore our website and social media accounts to stay updated on our latest EVs, and take a closer look when you visit our showroom today!
