Major carmakers to join 2019 Electric Vehicle Summit

HYUNDAI, Mitsubishi and Nissan are set to exhibit their electric-powered models at the 2019 Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS). The carmakers will also display some internal combustion engine-powered cars converted to run on electricity. Battery maker Motolite will unveil a new EV as well.

According to the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP), these developments are part of the increasing acceptance of EVs in the country, with the group’s president, Edmund Araga, saying EVs are now becoming mainstream.

“All in all, we expect about 15 vehicles to be exhibited and over a thousand visitors to go to the EV Summit daily. We will have on display the latest electric tricycles, cars, SUVs and jeepneys participating in the [Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program] PUVMP,” Araga said, noting guests can even test-drive some of the EVs.

The executive revealed more “eJeepneys” are being deployed in Metro Manila and in parts of Visayas and Mindanao as part of PUVMP. The program aims to upgrade some 200,000 jeepneys over the next six years with models powered by either a Euro4 diesel engine or an electric motor. The PUVMP has made retail financing now available through LANDBANK and the Development Bank of the Philippines, Araga said.

“Infrastructure and government support to sustain the growth of the EV industry are now being set up. The 3,000 Bemac eTrikes of the Department of Energy now being deployed nationwide are becoming more visible in various LGUs,” he said in a statement released to journalists.

In the same statement, EVAP said it has also partnered with the Philippine Nickel Industries Association to explore the possibility of locally manufacturing nickel metal hydride and lithium-ion batteries for automotive application. The Bureau of Philippine Standards is now crafting a complete set of standards for EVs, which will cover parts, components, testing parameters and procedures and safety features, according to EVAP.

The 2019 PEVS will take place on July 17 and 18 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. Show visitors must first register at www.pevsummit.com.