Filipinos show growing interest in electrified Vehicles, but infrastructure challenges persist, accdg. to Ford study

Contrary to what many Filipinos may have once thought, there already exists a significant interest and a growing demand for electrified vehicles within the local car buying market.

- ANGEL RIVERO

(Electrified vehicles being defined as: hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and battery electric vehicles).

According to a recent study conducted by global research and analytics consultancy Escalent last April to May 2024 under the directive of Ford Motor Company, and involving 1,470 respondents from countries which include: Australia, Saudi Arabia, New Zealand, South Africa, South Korea, the UAE, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines - about 44 percent of car buyers are already considering to purchase an electrified vehicle within the next 12 months! And the documented strongest preference was for hybrid electric technology.

The survey delves into the perspectives of Filipino drivers and car buyers, revealing a blend of optimism and apprehension. While over 70 percent of respondents believe owning an EV is practical in the Philippines, concerns about the availability of charging infrastructure remain a significant barrier. Nearly 39 percent cited inadequate charging stations as a primary deterrent, with many wishing for charging points to be as common as fuel stations.