E-vehicles: Is it time for the Philippines to embrace a greener public transportation system?
The Philippines: Land of smiles, tropical beaches, and... traffic. It’s a fact of life here, and unfortunately, the latter comes with an unwelcome side effect of air pollution.
The Philippines’ air quality average in 2023 was 54, which is 2.7 times the World Health Organization’s annual air quality guideline value. According to a 2016 report, 80% of the country's air pollution is caused by vehicles, while the rest comes from stationary sources and weather conditions.
But we’re not alone. Cities around the world are grappling with this problem, and it’s all tied to a bigger issue: climate change.
One promising solution is electric vehicles. In recent years, they've gained significant popularity as a key technology for reducing carbon emissions and oil consumption. Many nations, including Australia, are actively promoting the adoption of electric vehicles, especially for public transportation.
A new era in public transportation
At Yutong's YEA Green Exploration Journey in Brisbane City, which was attended by PhilSTAR L!fe, Councilor Ryan Murphy emphasized affordability and reliability as key factors in attracting people to use mass transportation. “We know that electric vehicles are the absolute winner when it comes to reliability on a public transport system,” he told the guests.
Yutong was an early leader in electric vehicles, launching in 1997. They've sold over 190,000 electric buses worldwide, saving 9.2 billion liters of fuel and reducing carbon emissions by millions of tons.
In mid-September, the China-based company showcased its cutting-edge electric technology, Yutong Electric Architecture (YEA), to the APAC market at the National Bus & Coach Show and the brand’s gala dinner at the Brisbane City Hall.
Centering on the theme “Think Eco, Move Green,” the event highlighted Yutong’s commitment to green travel across the globe, starting with the launch of its new electric minibus, the E7S. It is the 18th electric model in their 'New Energy Buses' lineup, which also includes hybrids and fuel cell buses.
The Yutong E7S offers a spacious interior, excellent maneuverability, and a long range of 300 km. Its energy-efficient design and large windows make it a comfortable and practical choice for urban transportation. Additionally, it provides ample space for up to 35 passengers.
Guests from APAC countries, including the Philippines, also had the opportunity to learn about YEA's latest innovations. These included a “super battery” with enhanced safety features, an efficient power controller, a lightweight e-axle, a versatile heat pump, a high-speed charger, a driver-friendly cockpit, and an intelligent fleet management system.
Brisbane City has already tested Yutong e-buses, with Murphy praising them for transforming local public transportation.
“The Yutong trial in Brisbane has been an incredible moment for our city because of what it showed our passengers,” he said. “It showed them just how good public transport could be: quiet, accessible, efficient, [and] informative,” Murphy said.
L!fe and other guests had the opportunity to experience one of its coaches firsthand on a scenic drive to Sirromet Winery in Mount Cotton, Queensland. The 45-minute journey was incredibly smooth and quiet, with minimal bumps or vibrations even on the winding roads. The ride’s sleek interior featured plush reclining seats, USB ports, and seatbelts, making it a pleasant and convenient option for passengers.
But is the Philippines ready for e-buses?
The future of e-buses in the Philippines
It is no secret that the Philippines has a traffic problem, and a lack of public transportation is a major factor. A Social Weather survey found that 87% of Filipinos believe prioritizing better public transport, bicycles, and pedestrians over private vehicles would improve local roads.
Yutong Asia-Pacific CEO Kent Chang believes there's a potential for electric vehicles to improve the Philippines' transportation system. He noted that countries like Australia are encouraging people to switch from personal cars to public transport as part of environmental efforts.
"A simple calculation shows the benefits," Chang told L!fe. "A private car can carry four people, including the driver. But an electric public transport vehicle can accommodate 80 or even 100 passengers.”
At the launch, Yutong invited several Philippine bus operators, seeing the country as a potential market for electric vehicles. A manager from Bacolod confirmed this, noting the presence of private e-buses in the province. He said that another benefit would be its low costs. “Makakatipid ka sa fuel kasi more on battery na siya. So ‘yun ‘yung isa sa benefits ng e-bus.”
Chang acknowledged that transitioning to e-transportation is a gradual process, as we “can't just build a robot city” overnight. Infrastructure is important, especially charging stations and smart grid technologies, and the government needs to play a role in supporting this. He noted that public awareness also is key.
“We do believe that (e-transportation) is a solution to the future. Why? Because it is really saving energy and protecting the environment,” Chang shared.
More than just an e-vehicle company, Yutong further extended its efforts in promoting a greener future through its Global Carbon Free Forest initiative. Under this program, “the company will plant a tree for every vehicle sold.”
“Through our YEA Green Exploration Journey, we aim to accelerate the realization of a ‘zero carbon emission’ future. Together with our partners in the Asia-Pacific region, we are committed to advancing a greener future, driving economic prosperity, and fostering sustainable development across the region,” said Chang.
Disclaimer: The trip to Brisbane was sponsored by Yutong.