EV
Electric Leap
GAC International charged into the Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit 2025 with three new EVs and a clear message: the brand’s expansion in Southeast Asia is shifting into high gear.
Headlining the show were the AION V and HYPTEC HT—both officially launched for the Philippine market—alongside the local debut of the AION UT, a youthful compact EV that already found success in Thailand with 1,000 units sold in just over a month.
The AION V is built for everyday practicality, featuring GAC’s fireproof Magazine Battery 2.0 that delivers 520 km of range and can fast-charge from 30% to 80% in just 16 minutes. The larger HYPTEC HT takes a more luxurious route with electric gullwing doors, Nappa leather seats, and a Qualcomm-powered 14.6-inch HD display.
GAC also displayed the M8 PHEV and EMKOO HEV, expanding its hybrid lineup. These models represent the company’s “multi-path” electrification approach, offering drivers more ways to shift to cleaner mobility.
Senior Vice President Wang Shunsheng called the event a “landmark moment” for GAC’s Philippine operations. “We are introducing world-class electric vehicles that blend technology, safety, and practicality for Filipino lifestyles,” he said.
Through its “ONE GAC 2.0” strategy, the company is accelerating localization, ecosystem building, and partnerships in the Philippines. Since entering the market in 2018, GAC has opened over 30 dealerships nationwide and posted a 65% sales increase in 2024.
Calvin Cheng, General Manager of GAC International Philippines, said the focus is long-term: “We are not just launching models. We are building jobs, partnerships, and an EV ecosystem.”
To make EV ownership easier, GAC also unveiled an “Exclusive Launch Privilege Package” for the AION V and HYPTEC HT worth over ₱99,999 for only ₱999. It includes a wall charger, portable charger, tint, insurance, registration, and more.
With quality, technology, and ecosystem leadership as its pillars, GAC aims to create what Cheng calls an “electric future that is inclusive, sustainable, and distinctly Filipino.”
Electric vehicles are becoming more visible across Metro Manila, with compact models such as the VinFast VF 3 and VF 5 now blended into everyday traffic. As more Filipinos consider their first electric car, VinFast outlines seven key questions to guide buyers before making the switch.
1. How far do I usually travel?
Range remains the first concern for new EV users. For short city commutes around Makati, Ortigas, or Quezon City, compact models like the VF 5, offering up to 326 kilometers, or the VF 6, which reaches around 480 kilometers, may be enough. Those who frequently drive to provincial destinations such as Subic, Baguio, or Batangas are encouraged to look at the VF 7, which delivers nearly 500 kilometers of range on a full charge.
2. What battery type does the EV use?
Battery technology influences durability, safety, and longevity. VinFast equips the VF 6 and VF 7 with LFP batteries, a Lithium Iron Phosphate chemistry known for stability in hot climates like the Philippines. These batteries are covered by warranties of up to 10 years or 200,000 kilometers, giving buyers additional peace of mind.
3. Where can I charge, and what charger do I need?
The growth of public charging stations in malls, offices, condominiums, and major highways has improved convenience, but understanding accessibility remains essential. Buyers are urged to check connector types, available charging points near their route, and the possibility of installing a home charger. VinFast customers are supported by a three year free charging program in partnership with V Green to help with early adoption.
4. What safety features does the EV include?
Safety continues to be a nonnegotiable requirement. The VF 3 already offers ABS, hill start assist, and airbags despite its compact footprint. Higher models such as the VF 5, VF 6, and VF 7 include blind spot alerts, rear cross traffic warning, and multiple airbags, features designed to help in dense urban traffic or long expressway trips.
5. Where will I bring the EV for servicing?
After sales support is a major factor for first time EV buyers. VinFast is expanding service coverage through partners like Motech and JIGA, allowing customers easier access to maintenance. Vehicles also receive over the air updates, enabling system improvements without visiting a service center.
6. How much will I spend on charging and upkeep?
EV ownership typically leads to lower running costs. A full charge at home can cost ₱200 to ₱300, significantly lower than fuel refills. With fewer moving parts and no engine oil to replace, maintenance expenses also decrease over time.
7. Is an EV the right fit for my lifestyle?
VinFast encourages buyers to evaluate daily routes, charging options, and long term mobility needs. For VF 3 owner Paul Reyes, who has already driven about 10,000 kilometers, the quiet drive, low operating cost, and overall convenience convinced him to commit to electric for good.
VinFast Philippines hopes these seven questions give first time buyers the clarity they need as they join the growing EV community.
Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is taking its electrification drive to the next level with the introduction of its first-ever battery electric vehicle, the all-new bZ4X. Reservations opened on November 7, ahead of its official launch in December 2025.
Marking Toyota’s entry into the full-electric segment, the bZ4X represents the brand’s commitment to its multi-pathway approach—offering Filipino customers a range of electrified options, from hybrids to fully electric vehicles.
TMP President Masando Hashimoto said the bZ4X embodies Toyota’s goal of giving customers freedom to choose how they want to drive toward carbon neutrality. “Our multi-pathway approach is all about giving customers multiple options. I hope more Filipinos can join us in our movement toward carbon neutrality with the all-new bZ4X,” he shared.
The all-new bZ4X features a bold design, advanced technology, and Toyota’s proven reliability. It will be available in Emotional Red, Precious Metal, Platinum White Pearl Mica, and Dark Blue Mica colorways, with a starting price of P2,699,000.
Customers can reserve the bZ4X through Toyota’s official website at toyota.com.ph/reservebz4x.
Hongqi Philippines has named actress and former Binibining Pilipinas International Alice Dixson as its newest brand ambassador, aligning her timeless charm with the marque’s vision of refined innovation.
With over three decades in the entertainment industry, Dixson embodies the elegance and individuality Hongqi stands for. The luxury brand, led by the creative direction of Giles Taylor—formerly of Rolls-Royce—has built its reputation on blending heritage with modern design.
Dixson said she was drawn to Hongqi’s philosophy, “I Decide What Drives Me,” which celebrates passion and individuality. “For me, what drives me is my passion and courage, and that’s why I drive Hongqi,” she shared.
She also highlighted the brand’s balance of performance, comfort, safety, and sustainability. Dixson, who has been considering a shift to electric mobility, said Hongqi was already on her shortlist for its premium EVs. “I’m proud to represent a brand that champions sustainable and environmentally responsible mobility,” she added.
Hongqi PH President Rashid Delgado said Dixson’s elegance and adventurous spirit make her the perfect ambassador as the brand ushers in a new era in the Philippines.
The partnership debuts alongside the launch of Hongqi’s latest all-electric models, the E-H7 and E-HS7, featured in a new campaign video now live on Hongqi’s official Facebook and Instagram pages.
Luxury car enthusiasts can experience Hongqi’s lineup at its showrooms in BGC, Alabang, Manila Bay, and Quezon City.
