The mobility of people and consumer goods is getting faster and wider in scope as necessitated by today’s global economy. And because this constant movement is largely dependent on fuel-run transport vehicles, the emission of greenhouse gases -- which are detrimental to humans and the environment -- is also on an alarming rise. Latest data from the International Energy Agency revealed that transportation accounted for almost 37% of global CO2 emissions from end-use sectors in 2021, making it one of the largest contributors to climate change.
To help avert the environmental problems caused by transport emissions, one “clean” solution is the use of electric vehicles (EVs). As EVs are rapidly changing the global transportation landscape, leading Asian automaker and brand, BYD, through its authorized local distributor Solar Transport and Automotive Resources Corp., leads the Philippines’ transition to green mobility with its sustainable EV innovations.
A pioneer that sets the standards in the global automotive scene, BYD’s established positioning is backed by decades of expertise and experience in EV development, courtesy of a world-renowned team of designers and engineers. It is also a top provider of green energy technologies that are utilized in the IT, automotive, and new energy industries. BYD, which stands for “Build Your Dreams”, truly creates the most idyllic vehicle ownership and driving experience — by building beautifully engineered automobiles that are gaining recognition all over the globe for their build quality and world-class technologies.
Paving the way for sustainable transport in the country by being the first to introduce an EV unit in the Philippines in 2013, Solar Transport and Automotive Resources Corp. is an industry pioneer with the widest and longest experience in EV distribution.
Safe, value-added investment
BYD EVs outmaneuver traditional internal combustion engines (ICEs) by being equipped with patented core technologies that promote the highest level of safety and efficiency: the Blade Battery and e-Platform 3.0.
Known for its durability, stability, and being one of the world’s safest batteries, the Blade Battery is a patented technology by BYD, making it one of only a few EV manufacturers that produce its own batteries. The distinct advantages of BYD's Blade Battery include a high starting temperature for exothermic reactions, slow heat release, and low heat generation. The space-saving feature of BYD Blade battery is that it is a highly compact battery pack that can be arranged in hundreds of different configurations to fit virtually any vehicle.
Unlike conventional electric vehicle batteries that are made up of thousands of individual battery cells connected together, the Blade Battery is made up of just a few large and highly efficient battery cells that are stacked together in a unique structure that resembles a blade. This innovative design allows for a more space-efficient use of battery pack volume, enabling automakers to pack more battery capacity into a smaller footprint. Additionally, the Blade Battery's compact design allows for easier installation into vehicles with limited space.
The e-Platform 3.0, meanwhile, adopts the integrated design of the blade battery and the body, and on this basis, an exclusive power transmission design for pure EVs becomes possible. Using a modular battery pack design that can be easily customized to fit different vehicle sizes and ranges, it also utilizes standardized battery modules, thus BYD can reduce manufacturing costs and increase production efficiency. The platform also comes with a dual-motor drive system that provides superior performance and flexibility. This system can be configured for front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive depending on the vehicle design.
Overall, the BYD e-platform 3.0 is designed to provide a more efficient, flexible, and eco-friendly electric vehicle platform that can be easily adapted to meet the needs of different consumers.
According to Mark Andrew Tieng, managing director of Solar Transport, investing in a BYD EV saves buyers money in the long run. Although EVs may have a higher initial cost, they come with lower maintenance costs.
“The energy required to charge an EV is much cheaper than buying fuel or gasoline for traditional ICEs, and maintenance costs are lower due to simpler mechanical components,” notes Tieng.
To date, BYD offers a 5-year/100,000 km service warranty for its vehicles.
As for the charging time and mileage of BYD vehicles, they depend on the specific model and battery capacity. Currently, Solar Transport carries five top-of-the-line BYD models (Dolphin, Tang, Han, and T3 E-Van and a roster of forklifts (Counterbalanced Forklift, Reach Truck, Pallet Truck, and Stacker).
BYD EVs’ premium build qualities make them well-suited for use in various countries. In fact, BYD has been steadily gaining traction in Asian markets, led by China, followed by Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand.
“These technological advancements, on top of sleek design aesthetics, make every BYD car a beautiful piece of high-precision engineering” added Tieng.
‘Earth-conscious’ Advocacy
Tieng reiterated BYD’s strong commitment to green mobility is both a brand promise and advocacy. “You’re buying a BYD EV not only for yourself, but as an investment for the next generation, your children, and the environment. It adds significant value to your life,” he stressed.
The timely implementation of the EVIDA (Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations Investment Promotion Act) law on zero-tax importation is seen to jumpstart the market viability of EVs in the Philippines, and at the same time lay out the country's readiness for sustainable EV adoption. Since reduced costs of importation will entail lower retail prices of EV units, more businesses and consumers will be encouraged to invest in them.
With government policies outlined under EVIDA, as well as initiatives from the private sector, the expansion of charging station locations and related infrastructure that will support EVs is expected to follow. In 2022, the Department of Energy estimated about 9,000 EVs and 300 charging stations in the Philippines. Some of these strategically placed charging stations are located in major shopping malls and commercial spaces.
The swelling interest, government incentives, and growing consumer reception for BYD EV vehicles only show that while the road to transformation may be long, the Philippines' journey towards full sustainable mobility in the near future remains exciting and rewarding.
To know more about BYD, follow the official social media pages of BYD Philippines @BYDPhilippines or visit us at www.byd.com.ph.
