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The automotive landscape in the Philippines is rapidly evolving, with a surge in the introduction of hybrid and full electric vehicles from nearly every major car brand. This shift is further fueled by new legislation and supportive initiatives from property developers, making electric vehicle ownership increasingly attractive. A key incentive driving this adoption is the number coding exemption offered to electric and certain hybrid vehicles under the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA). This exemption allows these vehicles to bypass the Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP), commonly known as number coding, which restricts vehicle usage based on license plate numbers on specific days. Furthermore, the expansion of EV charging infrastructure at malls and fuel stations addresses range anxiety, while the inherent fuel efficiency of electrified vehicles mitigates concerns about fluctuating fuel prices.
However, the term “hybrid” encompasses a range of technologies, and not all hybrid cars qualify for this number coding exemption in the Philippines. The Department of Energy has released an official list clarifying which electrified vehicles are granted exemption from the UVVRP. Notably, this list excludes mild hybrid electric vehicles (MHEVs). This distinction arises because MHEVs lack the capability to independently propel the vehicle using electric power alone. Understanding this crucial difference is key to determining if a hybrid vehicle qualifies for the coveted number coding exemption.
Decoding Hybrid Technology: Mild, Full, and Plug-in Hybrids
Hybrid vehicles, by definition, integrate both an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor, working in conjunction to power the vehicle. Typically, these systems utilize a gasoline engine paired with an electric motor powered by a battery. To accommodate both power sources, hybrid vehicles often feature a smaller combustion engine and battery compared to conventional gasoline cars or full electric vehicles, respectively. The primary differentiator among hybrids lies in the extent of electric power generation, utilization, and battery recharging capabilities. They are broadly categorized into three main types: mild hybrids (MHEV), full hybrids (HEV), and plug-in hybrids (PHEV).
Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicles (MHEVs): Assistance, Not Independence
Mild hybrids represent the entry point into hybrid technology. In an MHEV system, the gasoline engine and electric motor operate in tandem, with the electric motor primarily assisting the combustion engine. While the gasoline engine can function independently, the electric motor cannot propel the vehicle on its own. MHEVs often incorporate features like engine shut-off during idling to conserve fuel, while the electric motor powers auxiliary functions such as air conditioning and lights. Despite these fuel-saving features, the electric motor’s role is supplementary; it cannot drive the wheels independently. Consequently, MHEVs lack a pure electric driving mode where the gasoline engine is completely off while the vehicle is in motion.
Examples of mild hybrid vehicles available in the market include models like the Geely Okavango, Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid, Chery Tiggo 5X Pro Hybrid, Mazda 3 M Hybrid, and Volvo XC90 B6. Despite carrying the “hybrid” designation, their inability to operate in a pure electric mode disqualifies them from being classified as full hybrids and, crucially, from enjoying number coding exemption. It’s important to note that MHEVs still offer enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles, making them a valuable stepping stone towards electrification. However, they do not qualify for the government incentives designed for more advanced hybrid and electric vehicles, including number coding exemption and access to designated EV parking spaces.
Full Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs): True Dual-Power Operation
Full hybrids, also known as hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), represent a more advanced hybrid system where the electric and combustion power sources can operate both in tandem and independently. The transition between electric and gasoline power is often automatic, though some HEVs offer manual mode selection when sufficient battery charge is available. HEVs generally achieve greater fuel efficiency than conventional cars due to this flexible power management. A trade-off for the hybrid system is often reduced cargo space to accommodate the battery pack. While HEVs still produce emissions due to the combustion engine, they are considered an ideal transition for drivers exploring electrified vehicles. The pure electric driving mode provides a glimpse into the experience of battery electric vehicles, while the presence of a gasoline engine alleviates range anxiety, especially given the developing charging infrastructure in the Philippines. Crucially, full hybrids that possess a pure electric mode are eligible for number coding exemption.
Popular examples of full hybrid vehicles in the Philippines include the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid (V or GR grades), Toyota Zenix Hybrid (Q grade), Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (all variants), Nissan Kicks e-Power (all variants), Lexus NX350h, and Haval Jolion HEV. These models are recognized as true hybrids due to their capability to run solely on electric power when battery charge permits.
Full hybrids are indeed the vehicles targeted by government incentives aimed at promoting vehicle electrification. They are granted number coding exemption and may qualify for expedited and discounted vehicle registration. However, because HEVs do not feature plug-in charging capability, they are typically not permitted to park in designated EV charging parking spots.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): Bridging Hybrid and Electric
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) represent the most advanced category of hybrids, bridging the gap between HEVs and full Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). PHEVs share similarities with HEVs but incorporate a critical additional feature: plug-in charging capability. PHEV batteries can be recharged by connecting to an external power source, such as a wall outlet or a dedicated charging station. This plug-in functionality enables PHEVs to operate in pure electric mode for a more extended range compared to HEVs, making them well-suited for daily commutes, with the combustion engine engaging when the battery is depleted. PHEVs typically command a higher price point than HEVs due to their enhanced battery capacity and plug-in system. However, they offer a closer experience to BEVs with a larger battery and extended electric driving range.
PHEV models are often identified by “PHEV” in their vehicle name. Examples include the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV, Range Rover P400e, and upcoming models like the Jetour Dashing PHEV and BYD Song Plus PHEV.
PHEVs, due to their pure electric driving mode and plug-in charging, fully qualify for government incentives for electrified vehicles. They are exempt from number coding, eligible for faster and discounted registration, and, importantly, are permitted to utilize designated EV parking spaces due to their plug-in charging capability.
Distinguishing Hybrids for Number Coding Exemption
Understanding the nuances between mild, full, and plug-in hybrids is crucial, particularly when considering number coding exemption in the Philippines. When exploring hybrid vehicle options, the key factor to ascertain is the vehicle’s ability to operate in a pure electric mode, independently propelled by the electric motor alone. PHEVs are readily identifiable by the “PHEV” designation and the presence of a charging port.
The market for hybrid vehicles in the Philippines is expanding rapidly, offering diverse choices across different categories. Mazda offers several mild hybrid models across its sedan, hatchback, and crossover lineups. Volvo’s entire current vehicle range consists of mild hybrids. Toyota leads in the full hybrid segment with a substantial portfolio of hybrid models, and Lexus offers hybrid versions for nearly its entire lineup, excluding sports cars and large SUVs. Emerging brands like Jetour, Chery, and Haval are also introducing hybrid models to the Philippine market.
Looking ahead, the anticipated arrival of more PHEV models will further expand consumer choices, particularly for those seeking a closer experience to electric vehicle ownership while mitigating range concerns. By understanding the distinctions between hybrid types and their eligibility for number coding exemption, car buyers in the Philippines can make informed decisions aligned with their transportation needs and environmental consciousness.
