Manila, Philippines — The Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) expects electric vehicle (EV) registrations in the country to reach a new milestone in 2025, projecting around 35,000 EV registrations by year-end.

Based on Land Transportation Office (LTO) data, a total of 29,715 EVs were registered from January to July 2025, which includes 28,353 new units and 1,362 renewals. For comparison, only about 24,000 EVs were registered throughout 2024 — a clear sign that Filipino motorists are embracing electric mobility faster than ever.

EVs now account for about 5% of all new vehicle registrations nationwide through the first seven months of 2025, marking a strong shift toward cleaner transport.

“Our EV volume target by 2040 is at least 2.5 million, and I am confident that this goal is easily achievable,” said EVAP President Edmund Araga during his opening remarks at the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS) held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on October 23.

“We’re seeing record-breaking growth every year. With the government’s incentives — zero import tariffs, priority registration, coding exemptions, and free charging at select locations — EV adoption will continue to accelerate,” Araga added.

Technology Takes the Wheel

Araga attributed much of the growth to advancing EV technology, echoing findings from a McKinsey China Auto Consumer Study that revealed that technology is the top driver of EV purchases — more than price.



According to the study, high-tech features increase purchase intent by 10.8%, compared to only 3.6% for discounts or lower prices. Key technological factors include range, charging speed, and interior experience.

Meanwhile, local research conducted by Mapúa University in March 2024 showed that for Filipino consumers, cost remains the main concern, followed by battery type, charging options, EV category, and driving range. The study recommended addressing affordability and improving EV literacy to further boost adoption.

DOE’s New EV Classifications

EVAP also praised the Department of Energy (DOE) for issuing six official EV classifications:

  • Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)

  • Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)

  • Light Electric Vehicles (LEVs)

  • Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)

  • Range Extender Electric Vehicles (REEVs)

  • Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs)

According to the DOE, this move is “a critical step toward building a more organized, accessible, and future-ready EV market,” ensuring consistent standards that reduce administrative burdens and increase transparency across the industry.

Local Manufacturing and Charging Infrastructure Growing

Araga further noted that the expansion of charging infrastructure and the emergence of local EV and component manufacturing plants are major contributors to the country’s EV momentum. These developments make owning an EV more practical and accessible for everyday Filipinos.

“There are so many factors driving EV growth locally — from the growing number of EV charging stations to the establishment of home-based EV manufacturing plants. All of these help make EVs more attainable for more Filipinos,” Araga said.

Join the EVolution

The Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit 2025 runs from October 23 to 25, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the SMX Convention Center Manila. This year’s theme, “Charge Ahead, Ignite the EVolution,” focuses on accelerating EV adoption, showcasing the latest technologies, and fostering collaboration among key industry players.

PEVS 2025 is organized by EVAP, with co-presenters BYD Cars Philippines, Omoda & Jaecoo Motor Philippines Inc., United Asia Automotive Group Inc. (UAAGI), GAC Dangdang, and the Department of Energy.