The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is a global phenomenon, driven by the urgent need for cleaner and more sustainable transportation solutions. In the Philippines, this shift is also gaining momentum. Recent data indicates a significant surge in EV adoption, with registered electric vehicle units more than doubling in the first half of 2022 compared to the previous year. This growth underscores the increasing interest in electric mobility within the country.
However, as the number of EVs on Philippine roads increases, questions naturally arise regarding their integration into existing traffic regulations. One prominent regulation is the number coding scheme, designed to alleviate traffic congestion in metropolitan areas. A crucial question for prospective and current EV owners is: are hybrid cars, and electric vehicles in general, exempt from number coding in the Philippines?
This article directly addresses this question, providing a clear understanding of electric vehicle coding exemptions in the Philippines, particularly for hybrid cars, and how these regulations support the adoption of cleaner transportation.
Decoding Electric Vehicle Coding Exemption in the Philippines
The answer to whether electric cars, including hybrid models, are exempt from number coding in the Philippines is a resounding yes. Republic Act No. 11697, also known as the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), explicitly grants exemptions from number coding to battery EVs, hybrid EVs, plug-in hybrid EVs, and light EVs. This landmark legislation is a cornerstone in the Philippines’ push towards sustainable transportation.
Image showing a BYD Atto 3, a battery-electric vehicle, being charged.
The primary intention behind EVIDA’s number coding exemption is to incentivize the adoption of electric vehicles and foster the growth of the local EV industry. By removing the burden of number coding restrictions, the government aims to make EVs a more attractive and practical option for Filipino drivers, encouraging a shift away from fossil fuel dependence and towards a greener transportation ecosystem. Therefore, if you are considering purchasing a hybrid car or any other type of EV in the Philippines, you can be assured that Philippines Hybrid Cars Coding exemption is indeed a reality.
Beyond the significant no-coding benefit, EVIDA also encompasses a range of non-fiscal incentives designed to further support the EV sector. These include:
- Priority registration and renewal: Streamlined processes for EV registration.
- Special vehicle plates: Distinctive plates to easily identify EVs.
- Expedited franchise processing: Faster approvals for EV operators.
- Accelerated import processing: Quicker import procedures for EV manufacturers and importers.
- Work permits for foreign experts: Facilitating technology transfer in the EV industry.
Furthermore, owners of EVs and hybrid cars in the Philippines can also benefit from or contribute to:
- Excise tax exemptions: 100% exemption for battery-electric vehicles and 50% for hybrid vehicles.
- Local job creation: Growth in skilled jobs within the EV sector.
- Reduced fuel import reliance: Decreased dependence on imported fossil fuels.
- Expansion of charging infrastructure: Establishment of EV charging stations at gas stations and other locations.
- Priority parking: Designated parking spaces for EVs in various establishments.
- Fuel cost savings: Lower running costs compared to traditional vehicles.
- Environmental benefits: Contribution to cleaner air and a reduced carbon footprint.
- Cost-effective vehicle upgrades: Long-term savings and value proposition of EVs.
Understanding the EV Landscape: Classifications in the Philippines
It’s important to recognize that the term “electric vehicle” encompasses a variety of vehicle types. Understanding these classifications is crucial in determining which vehicles qualify for EV incentives and align with your transportation needs. Philippine law categorizes EVs into four main types:
1. Battery-Electric Vehicles (BEVs)
BEVs are purely electric vehicles, relying solely on rechargeable batteries for power and propulsion. They have no internal combustion engine and are entirely emission-free at the point of use. The BYD Atto 3 is an excellent example of a BEV, offering fast DC charging capabilities (30-60 minutes) and a substantial range of up to 480 kilometers on a single charge.
Exterior view of the stylish BYD Atto 3 battery-electric vehicle.
2. Light Electric Vehicles (LEVs)
LEVs are smaller, lighter electric vehicles designed primarily for short-distance urban travel. This category includes electric scooters, bicycles, personal transporters, and similar vehicles weighing under 50 kilograms, as defined by the Department of Energy. LEVs provide convenient and eco-friendly solutions for last-mile commutes and navigating congested city streets.
3. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)
HEVs combine a rechargeable battery with a traditional fuel-based engine, typically an internal combustion engine. These vehicles utilize both electricity and fuel for propulsion, optimizing fuel efficiency and reducing tailpipe emissions. HEVs offer a balance between electric driving and the range and refueling convenience of gasoline vehicles.
4. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
PHEVs are similar to HEVs but feature larger batteries and plug-in charging capabilities. This allows PHEVs to operate in electric-only mode for a more extended range before the combustion engine engages. PHEVs offer the benefits of both electric driving for shorter trips and the flexibility of a gasoline engine for longer journeys. While BYD currently doesn’t offer PHEV models in the Philippines, they are continuously developing their Dual Mode (DM) hybrid technology to enhance fuel efficiency in future vehicles.
Embrace Electric Mobility in the Philippines
The electric vehicle revolution is transforming transportation globally, and the Philippines is actively participating in this transition. With government support through initiatives like EVIDA and the associated philippines hybrid cars coding exemption, the path towards cleaner and more sustainable mobility is becoming increasingly accessible.
Choosing an EV or hybrid car in the Philippines not only provides practical benefits like exemption from number coding and reduced running costs but also contributes to a greener environment and a more sustainable future for the nation.
Take the next step towards electric mobility by exploring the possibilities with BYD Pampanga. Discover our range of cutting-edge EVs and experience the future of driving today. Visit our website and social media channels or come to our showroom to learn more and embark on your electric journey.
