It is expected that BYD will finish delivering a total of 18 units in 2022. This was the first time that Meralco purchased battery-electric passenger vehicles for corporate use. In fact, it was the very first public invitation for the bid to purchase pure electric models for the Philippines.
As the largest electric power distribution utility in the Philippines, Meralco is also the only electric power distributor in the national capital region. After smooth trial operations of BYD vehicles, Meralco has laid a solid foundation for cooperation with BYD.
The government of the Philippines is now pushing the launch of the Comprehensive Roadmap on Electric Vehicles (CREV) and will require establishments with 20 or more designated parking slots to dedicate 5% of their space for the use of EVs and provide charging points. This also highlights the country’s determination to go electric.
Coming government`s EV Bill
“Through this Program, we express our full support for the Philippines’ transition to electric transportation. As we look forward to the government’s enactment of the EV Bill—which will provide incentives to both EV suppliers and users—we welcome a greener, cleaner, and safer environment in our streets and thoroughfares,” said Ray C Espinosa, the President and CEO of the Manila Electric Co.
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“As the first NEV maker which has successfully entered the Philippines, BYD is very pleased to establish a partnership with Meralco,” said Benjamin Zhao, the General Manager of BYD Philippines Corp. “As a pioneer in the NEV industry, BYD has developed green business in four industries including automobiles, electronics, new energy, and rail transit. The electrification of transportation in the Philippines as a major car production hub in Southeast Asia is exciting. We hope for more opportunities to make sustainability a reality in daily life.”
Franchising of different e-mobility solutions
To support the charging requirements of its EVs, Meralco is also installing 5 charging stations in strategically located company facilities across its franchise area. Through its subsidiary eSakay, Inc., Meralco also offers end-to-end EVs and charging infrastructure solutions to institutional customers and to the riding public.
BYD entered the local passenger vehicle market in 2013. After nearly a decade of consistent efforts, it now holds the leading position in the local market for new-energy passenger cars with a share exceeding 80%. (hcn)
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