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Shell and Evro launch unified EV charging network in PH
TAGUIG CITY — Shell Pilipinas Corporation and e-mobility service provider Evro have teamed up to simplify electric vehicle (EV) charging in the Philippines by launching the country’s first integrated EV charging platform.
The two companies formally signed their partnership on July 10, 2025, at Bonifacio Global City. Under the agreement, select Shell Recharge stations are now integrated into the Evro app, with a full nationwide rollout expected by September.
The move aims to solve a major issue faced by EV drivers: having to switch between multiple apps and payment systems to access different charging networks. Evro’s app allows users to find, access, and pay for charging sessions at various locations—now including Shell Recharge stations—through a single platform.
“This partnership sets the foundation for a more connected e-mobility ecosystem nationwide,” said Evro General Manager Paulo Canivel. “We’re simplifying the charging journey for EV drivers.”
The initial rollout includes ten Shell charging locations already discoverable through the Evro app. These include major destinations like Shell SLEX Mamplasan and Shell TPLEX Rosario Exit, as well as shopping centers like Estancia Mall, Greenhills, Opus Mall, and several Robinsons malls.
By joining forces, Shell and Evro are offering drivers real-time updates on charger availability, compatibility, and payment—all within the app. The integration uses the Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI) standard, approved by the Department of Energy, to ensure compatibility and accurate billing between systems.
“Shell supports the energy transition in the Philippines. This partnership with Evro makes EV charging more convenient and accessible to all Filipinos,” said Mike Ramolete, Vice President and General Manager for Mobility & Convenience at Shell Pilipinas.
Both companies are aiming to eliminate “app fatigue” and other obstacles that discourage the adoption of electric vehicles in the country. As more partners come on board, Evro hopes to further expand its network and coverage across urban centers, highways, and commercial areas.
For EV users, this means a smoother, more reliable charging experience—critical for encouraging the switch to greener transport.
MANILA | After seven years, Ayala Corporation’s AC Industrials has officially ended its distributorship of Maxus vehicles in the Philippines, closing a chapter that started with the brand’s local launch in 2019. The decision, made jointly with China’s SAIC Motor Corporation Limited, was described as a “strategic step” for both companies to refocus on their core strengths amid shifting market dynamics.
Maxus entered the Philippine market under Ayala with vans like the G10 and V80, later adding the G50 MPV, D60 and D90 SUVs, and the T60 pickup. Some models have since evolved under SAIC’s other brand, MG, such as the G50 morphing into the G50 Plus and the upcoming re-entry of the D90. The T90 pickup is also set for a local debut as the TRQ.
For existing Maxus owners, it’s not the end of the road. Aftersales support will continue, with service bookings available via maxus.ph, and contact channels kept open for customer concerns.
Dana Uson, Head of Strategy at AC Industrials Mobility Group, said the company is proud to have contributed to Maxus’ local growth and reaffirmed its commitment to “innovative and sustainable mobility solutions” in the country. Meanwhile, SAIC’s Frank Wu thanked AC Industrials for laying a “strong foundation” for the brand in the Philippines.
Industry watchers weren’t entirely surprised. SAIC took direct control of MG’s Philippine operations in 2023, hinting that Maxus could eventually follow a similar path. For now, AC Industrials will focus on its other motoring brands, BYD, Kia, and Volkswagen, while SAIC continues to grow MG and possibly, one day, revive Maxus locally.
The announcement is rare in the auto industry, where most distributor shake-ups happen quietly, noticed only through shuttered dealerships and disappearing ads. This time, both parties went public—perhaps signaling a more open and competitive landscape ahead.
Lamborghini is in a legal showdown with one of its U.S. dealers, accusing it of selling high-end supercars to unauthorized middlemen — and in some cases, to individuals linked to “drug dealers and pimps.”
At the center of the dispute is Gold Coast Exotic Imports in Chicago, Illinois. The Italian carmaker claims the dealership breached its contract by selling at least 32 vehicles in 2023 to brokers instead of directly to retail buyers or other authorized dealers.
Court filings allege that some buyers had no intention of keeping the cars, flipping them instead for hefty profits. In one example, Lamborghini says a car went to someone previously convicted of fraud tied to laundering money through luxury car sales to criminal networks.
The brand also accuses Gold Coast of demanding off-the-books kickbacks worth hundreds of thousands of dollars in exchange for access to limited-edition models. Since 2019, Lamborghini claims to have paid the dealership over $4 million in incentive bonuses.
Gold Coast denies the allegations, countering that Lamborghini has withheld funds for showroom upgrades, failed to cover marketing costs, and is trying to push out its president, 81-year-old Joseph Perillo Sr. The dealership has taken its grievances to the Illinois Motor Vehicle Review Board.
Despite the heated exchanges, both sides told U.S. District Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer they are in talks for an out-of-court settlement. If that fails, a trial could take place in December 2026.
This dispute follows another high-profile scandal involving Ferrari’s German dealer Mertel Italo Cars, accused of fraud and swiftly cut off by the brand. For Italy’s supercar makers, the twin controversies highlight the ongoing challenge of keeping their exclusive cars out of speculative or criminal hands — and protecting their carefully crafted image.
Suzuki Philippines has stepped in to help communities hit hard by recent floods caused by Typhoons Dante and Emong, especially in low-lying areas of Laguna. Many neighborhoods near the company’s head office in Calamba were left underwater and cut off from essential supplies.
Through its Marine Department, Suzuki worked with local governments and rescue teams to deliver help where it was needed most. The company deployed an inflatable boat with a 6HP Suzuki outboard motor to Biñan and a poly boat with a 15HP motor to Sta. Rosa. These boats made it possible to reach areas inaccessible to regular vehicles or manual boats, bringing much-needed relief goods to stranded families, particularly in Sikatville where waters reached chest level.
Local leaders and volunteers praised the effort, saying the equipment helped them cover more ground and reach people faster.
Suzuki also launched a Flood Support Program for owners of non-insured Suzuki vehicles damaged by the floods. The program offers a 30% discount on key parts often affected by floodwater—Engine Control Module (ECM), ABS Control Module, Body Control Module (BCM), and SRS Control Unit—helping customers repair their vehicles safely and affordably.
The company said these efforts reflect its belief that mobility is more than transportation—it’s a way to care, connect, and uplift people, especially during disasters.
For more details, customers can visit authorized Suzuki Auto dealerships or check Suzuki Auto Philippines’ official social media channels.
