The Manila auto scene steps into a new phase as Manila International Auto Show 2026 opened today at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and Philippine Trade Training Center, drawing industry leaders, officials, and car brands under one roof.

Organized by Worldbex Services International, the show carries the theme “Powering Mobility.” It highlights new energy vehicles, EV infrastructure, and transport solutions as the industry shifts toward electrification and smarter mobility systems.

The opening ceremony gathered key figures from government and business. Among those present were Joseph L. Ang, Dexter Lloyd Cuajotor, Augustus “Joe” D. Ferreria, Imelda “Emi” Calixto-Rubiano, Markus V. Lacanilao, and Ceferino “Perry” S. Rodolfo representing Department of Trade and Industry.

Ang said the event continues to support the industry’s growth despite ongoing challenges, with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration. The program also highlights commercial mobility and sustainable transport solutions as demand shifts.

More than 500 vehicles are on display across 25 car brands, covering a wide range from internal combustion models to hybrids and full electric vehicles. Visitors can expect product launches, test drives, and interactive exhibits throughout the venue.

Now on its 21st year, MIAS remains one of the country’s largest automotive gatherings. The show runs until April 12, with tickets available online and on-site.

Geely Motor Philippines has launched the Geely EX5 EM-i in the local market, introducing a plug-in hybrid SUV offered in Pro and Max variants.

The model uses Geely’s Global Intelligent Electric Architecture and runs on the EM-i Super Hybrid System. It pairs a 1.5-liter engine rated at 73 kW with an electric motor that produces 160 kW and 262 Nm of torque. The system reaches an engine thermal efficiency of 46.5 percent and a combined system efficiency of up to 92.5 percent.

Geely said the hybrid system uses an E-DHT 11-in-1 electric drive setup. The company reported a 13.5 percent reduction in system weight and a 4.3 percent drop in energy loss compared to the previous generation.

Fuel consumption is rated at 6.2 liters per 100 kilometers under WLTP conditions when battery charge drops below 25 percent. Electric energy use is listed at 14.7 kWh per 100 kilometers. The vehicle can travel up to 83 kilometers in electric mode and reach a combined driving range of 943 kilometers.

The EX5 EM-i measures its cabin space through a 2,755 mm wheelbase. Geely said this results in an 84.3 percent space efficiency figure. The rear seats offer extended legroom and headroom, while storage includes more than 30 compartments. Cargo capacity starts at 428 liters and expands to 2,065 liters with the rear seats folded.

The front seats include ventilation with three levels and use a layered design intended to improve comfort. The model also received several international design awards, including recognition from Red Dot, MUSE, IDA, and A’ Design.

Inside, the SUV uses the Flyme Auto system with three displays. These include a 10.2-inch instrument cluster, a 15.4-inch central screen, and a 13.8-inch head-up display. The system supports multiple audio modes through a 16-speaker setup with a 1,000-watt amplifier. A headrest speaker is included for driver-focused audio output.

The vehicle also includes a camping mode that adjusts lighting, music, and screen settings. It allows external power supply for outdoor use.

Safety features include a triple-power system with backup through dual motors and an engine. The platform uses an oil-electric isolation design and a reinforced body structure. Six airbags come standard.

Driver assistance systems include lane departure warning, collision mitigation, lane change assist, and rear cross-traffic warning. The system uses cameras and radar sensors to monitor surroundings.

Geely said the EX5 EM-i addresses demand for lower fuel costs and flexible driving range. The company cited a Guinness World Record result during a drive from Sydney to Melbourne, where the model recorded 3.83 liters per 100 kilometers.

Geely Motor Philippines entered the local market in 2019. The brand has sold more than 30,000 units in the country. Direct operations began in 2025 under Geely Motor Philippines Corporation, with plans to expand its dealer and service network.

Ford Mustang Mach-E tops JD Power EV ownership study in the US

The Ford Mustang Mach‑E has earned the highest owner satisfaction score in the 2026 U.S. Electric Vehicle Experience Ownership Study conducted by J.D. Power.

In the latest EVX Ownership Study, the Mustang Mach-E posted a score of 760 out of 1,000. The figure placed it ahead of other battery electric vehicles in the U.S. market, including the Hyundai IONIQ 6, which scored 748, and the Kia EV9, which received 745.

The study gathers feedback from EV owners after their first year of use. It looks at day to day driving experience, range accuracy, charging convenience, cost of ownership, vehicle quality and reliability, and the level of guidance customers receive when transitioning to electric mobility.

Results show that satisfaction is not based on specifications alone. Owners rate their vehicles on how well they fit into daily routines, how simple charging is, and how confident they feel behind the wheel.

Pedro Simoes, President and Managing Director of Ford Philippines, said the recognition reflects how owners experience the vehicle in real conditions. He added that the Mustang Mach-E represents Ford’s effort to deliver an electric vehicle that remains engaging to drive while offering practical usability and strong customer support.

The Mustang Mach-E is Ford’s all electric SUV that carries the performance character associated with the Mustang nameplate. It delivers quick acceleration, a spacious cabin layout, and a digital interface designed for everyday use. The model combines performance styling with SUV practicality.

The EVX study also highlights a broader trend. As electric vehicle adoption grows, customer experience plays a bigger role in ownership satisfaction. Ease of charging, clarity of information, and overall reliability now influence purchase decisions as much as power and range figures.

Ford said the ranking supports its global electrification push and reinforces its focus on building EVs that integrate smoothly into modern lifestyles. For markets like the Philippines, where interest in electric mobility continues to rise, such global recognition strengthens the brand’s position in the growing EV segment.