Hyundai PH President Throws Full Support Behind EVs

Last July 17-18, Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI) participated in the 7th Philippine Electrical Vehicle Summit organized by the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP), held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. Hyundai showcased two fully-electric vehicles at the event, the Kona and the Ioniq. In a statement, HARI President and CEO Maria Fe Perez-Agudo came out strongly in support of EV adoption in the Philippines. "Electric vehicles represent the future of Philippine mobility. It is clear that EVs have the potential to reduce our dependence on imported fuel, cut the nation's carbon emissions, and create jobs for Filipinos in battery manufacturing, to name one example. "For our part, the hybrid Ioniq and fully-electric Kona--the first subcompact EV SUV in the country---are available from our network of dealerships. We continue to work closely with government to help craft sound EV policy and create a competitive EV industry. "The recently-held EVAP Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit further clarified the steps the government must take to make EVs a viable option for vehicle owners. "First, we at HARI underscore the need for a comprehensive EV roadmap to set the policy direction and strategically use tools such as regulations and procurement measures. Technical standards and protocols for the use of charging stations and registration procedures should be set. "Second, we recommend that government identify areas in the Philippines where EVs can make the biggest impact and set up pilot test zones. Jeju Island in Korea is an excellent example of setting up a pilot city for electric vehicles. "Third, we encourage government to spur investment in battery manufacturing by developing an attractive incentive package. Benefits for investing can take the form of tax exemptions, subsidies, and other non-fiscal support. "We envision a future when electric vehicles like the Ioniq and Kona are attractive and sustainable options for every vehicle owner in the country, and we look forward to helping make that vision a reality."

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian's Senate Bill 2137, the Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations Act, seeks to create a national framework that addresses charging station infrastructure, EV investment incentives, and registration procedures. In an interview with HARI, Senator Gatchalian said, "The E-vehicles Act will put the house in order. All the government actors will now be collaborating, fixing the bureaucracy, and promoting EVs."