EV makers pursue ambitious program

The Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (Evap) is embarking on an “ambitious” program that will see its members collaborating to better provide a complete electric vehicle (EV) transport solution.

In a statement, Evap president Rommel Juan said that since the goods and services required could not be supplied by just one company, it would be prudent for Evap members to collaborate, not only to better service the requirements of the local market but to also improve their chances in securing transport projects.

If this succeeds, the move will not only boost the Philippine electric vehicle industry, but may also serve as an example that can be replicated in the region.

“Our membership consists of manufacturers, assemblers, suppliers, importers, dealers, fleet operators and battery makers. They need to provide a complete package of a EV transport solution that includes electric vehicles, battery swapping arrangements, charging stations, after sales services, fleet management, spare parts support and the like,” Juan said.

“We are, therefore, organizing members now so that we do not become competitors and we become partners and collaborators instead. The market is big enough for everyone, there is enough room for each member in his own niche market,” he added.

Juan said they were looking to conduct a pilot test to iron out the kinks and formulate a business operations template that could be replicated in many parts of the country.

He added that different areas in the country were interested in implementing electric vehicle mass transport programs.

“We want to come up with complete EV transport solutions for LGUs, government agencies, industrial zones, malls, schools, commercial establishments, resorts and others. We want to come in with the right product, battery management and charging solution, as well as a a fleet operator who can operate the system,” Juan said.

Evap had called on transport groups and the government to consider electric vehicles as a viable replacement for jeepneys and tricycles under a public transport modernization program.

E-jeepneys have been running in Makati since 2008 under its Makati Green Route project. They can also be seen plying routes within or near Filinvest City in Alabang; Ateneo de Manila University; De La Salle University; and Manila Electric Co. compound in Ortigas. E-trikes are also operating in many areas in Metro Manila including Quezon City, Mandaluyong City, and within the University of the Philippines Diliman campus; as well as in Bacoor, Cavite; Boracay, Aklan.