Kobe Paras Embraces Hybrid Life

Kobe Paras once had doubts about electrified vehicles. His first BAIC hybrid changed his mind.

The basketball player said he had little experience with hybrid and electric vehicles before joining BAIC Philippines as a brand ambassador. The partnership also gave him the chance to work with his father, Benjie Paras, and brother, Andre Paras.

“The fact that our BAIC family wanted to get not just me, but my brother and dad, to be a part of it. Being able to work with them is always a dream of mine,” Kobe said.

His initial uncertainty about electrified cars came from not knowing enough about the technology.

“I used to be very hesitant about hybrid and electric vehicles because I wasn’t educated enough on it,” he said. “But now that I am a proud hybrid owner, I can wholeheartedly say that it was the best decision for me and my family.”

Fuel savings were among the first advantages he noticed. However, the driving experience also challenged his assumptions about hybrids.

“I was really impressed. It was my first time driving a hybrid vehicle, and it honestly made me realize that I was missing out this whole time,” Kobe said.

Sport mode became one of his favorite features. He said electrified vehicles are sometimes dismissed by drivers who associate them with limited performance or plain interiors.

“The sport mode in my BAIC car makes me feel like I’m driving a sports car, not because it’s fast, but because the interior is also so stylish,” he said.

The vehicle also fits his routine in Metro Manila, where long periods in traffic can turn a simple errand into an extended drive. Kobe said the cabin makes those trips more comfortable, while the hybrid system helps reduce fuel use.

“It definitely exceeded my expectations,” he said. “My brother, Andre, has this quote: ‘Your expectations, your disappointment.’ And I have not been disappointed once with my BAIC.”

Kobe and Andre also visited an auto show in China, where they saw upcoming electrified BAIC models. Kobe said the trip gave him a closer look at the technology and designs that could eventually reach the Philippines.

“I was blown away with the futuristic and advanced models that BAIC has to offer in the near future,” he said.

BAIC Philippines currently offers electrified models such as the B30e Dune Hybrid Off-Roader, B40e TrailMaster rEV and B60e Beaumont rEV. Its local range also includes the B40 Pro TrailMaster, B40 Ragnar, B60 Beaumont, B80 Wagon and X55 Verve.

For Kobe, the partnership is tied closely to family and his outlook on life.

“To drive big means to think big, and that means to stay curious at all times,” he said. “To drive big means to live big, and for me that means to live life to the fullest.”