MOBILITY | Toyota starts reservations for first all-electric SUV in the Philippines
Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has begun accepting reservations for the all-new bZ4X, its first battery electric vehicle (BEV) under the Toyota brand, with units arriving this December. The move marks a significant shift for the country’s largest automotive distributor, which has spent more than a decade pushing hybrid adoption before taking a full step into the electric-vehicle market.
TMP opened the reservation portal on November 7, generating immediate customer interest. TMP President Masando Hashimoto said dealers offering the bZ4X have received steady inquiries since the pre-selling period started.
“We are encouraged by the positive reception by the public to the news of the bZ4X local release,” Hashimoto said. He noted that range remains one of the most frequently asked questions. The bZ4X posted 570 km in internationally recognized tests under UN Regulation No. 101, though real-world figures vary depending on conditions and driving habits.
The Philippines will receive Japan-sourced units. Pricing starts at P2,699,000, with color options including Emotional Red, Precious Metal, Platinum White Pearl Mica and Dark Blue Mica. The SUV uses a 73.11 kWh lithium-ion battery, generating 343 PS and 338 Nm of torque through its all-wheel-drive system.
Reservations and product details are available online at www.toyota.com.ph/reservebz4x
and www.toyota.com.ph/bz4x
. The model will be sold through select Metro Manila and provincial dealerships, including Toyota Alabang, Commonwealth, Global City, Makati, Pasig, Quezon Avenue, Cebu, Mandaue South and Santa Rosa.
Multi-pathway strategy
The bZ4X enters the market as TMP further strengthens its multi-pathway strategy—an approach that emphasizes offering hybrids, plug-in hybrids, BEVs and alternative-energy vehicles to match a customer’s readiness and available infrastructure.
The company currently carries the widest electrified lineup in the country, spanning hybrid sedans, MPVs, SUVs and vans across the Toyota and Lexus brands. Lexus introduced TMP’s first BEV, the RZ, in 2023.
“Our multi-pathway approach is all about giving customers multiple options,” Hashimoto said. “I hope more Filipinos can join us in our movement toward carbon neutrality with the all-new bZ4X.”
Toyota’s entry into the full-BEV segment comes as global and regional competitors increase pressure in the Philippine market. Brands such as BYD, Hyundai, Kia and MG have launched or expanded their BEV offerings, some with aggressive pricing below the P2 million mark.
Analysts say Toyota’s extensive dealer and service network gives it a distinct advantage, especially for buyers concerned about maintenance, parts availability and nationwide support—key factors influencing purchase decisions in an emerging EV ecosystem.
PH EV adoption grows
The launch comes at a time when EV interest is rising but not yet widespread. While registrations of BEVs have increased since the implementation of the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), hybrids still dominate the electrified category.
Industry groups such as the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) note that consumers remain cautious due to price barriers, limited charging stations and a lack of clear long-term incentives.
Government initiatives—such as tariff exemptions for imported BEVs, green-lane processing, and the push for cleaner transport—have helped stimulate demand. However, many of the benefits are still heavily urban-centered.
Outside major cities, BEV uptake remains slow. Experts say the next phase of growth will depend not only on model variety and pricing but also on a more robust foundation of public and private charging infrastructure.
Charging network expands
The country’s charging network continues to grow through private-sector efforts led by mall operators, power companies and fuel retailers. SM, Ayala Malls, Robinsons, Unioil, SMC Infrastructure and other firms have installed AC and DC chargers in key commercial hubs.
Yet the majority of these stations remain concentrated in Metro Manila and select urban centers. Long-distance travel routes and provincial areas still lack widespread coverage, making BEVs challenging for drivers outside metropolitan regions.
Toyota has not introduced a dedicated charging network for the bZ4X but emphasizes compatibility with universal charging standards. Industry observers expect Toyota and other major brands to evaluate infrastructure partnerships as BEV adoption increases.
“BEV readiness isn’t just about the vehicle. It’s about the entire ecosystem—charging, grid stability and customer education,” an industry analyst said. “Toyota’s entry adds weight to the market, but infrastructure must follow for mass adoption to happen.”
Toyota’s entry signals maturing market
Toyota’s participation in the Philippine BEV space is seen as a milestone for the sector. Analysts say that when a major Japanese automaker with a large customer base enters a new technology segment, market perception shifts.
For early adopters, the bZ4X offers a premium BEV experience with long-range capability and Toyota build assurance. For mainstream buyers, the model serves as a benchmark for what established brands can bring to the segment.
The expanding lineup of electrified models—combined with government incentives, infrastructure deployment and rising fuel costs—suggests that BEV adoption will grow steadily over the next few years.
The bZ4X is expected to play a central role in Toyota’s carbon-neutral roadmap in the Philippines, potentially paving the way for more BEV models in the future.
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