MOBILITY | Toyota, Jetour, VinFast, Shell push Philippine EV, hybrid strategies
The Philippine automotive sector is entering a new phase as Toyota, Jetour, VinFast and Shell roll out distinct strategies around electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids and transport support programs.
Source: Toyota Motor Philippines
Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has formally entered the country’s battery electric vehicle market with the launch of the all-new bZ4X, marking the brand’s first full-electric model under the Toyota badge to be sold locally. Retail sales began December 11, with the release of units to initial customers.
The bZ4X sits within Toyota’s long-running “multi-pathway” approach to carbon-neutral mobility, which prioritizes offering hybrids, plug-in hybrids and full EVs alongside conventional internal combustion vehicles. TMP said the strategy reflects varying levels of readiness in infrastructure and consumer adoption across markets, including the Philippines.
Powered by a 73.11-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery and dual motors, the all-wheel-drive bZ4X delivers a claimed range of up to 570 kilometers based on UN Regulations 101 testing. It features an angular exterior design, 200-millimeter ground clearance and a cabin equipped with a digital display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Toyota Safety Sense driver assistance technologies.
TMP executives framed the bZ4X as a cautious but deliberate step toward mainstream EV adoption, citing improvements in charging infrastructure and growing public familiarity with electrified vehicles. Each purchase includes a wall box charger and a portable charger, addressing a common barrier for first-time EV buyers. Pricing starts at P2.69 million, depending on color configuration.
Jetour positions plug-in hybrids as a bridge
Jetour is positioning plug-in hybrid vehicles as a transitional option for Filipino motorists following a recent media drive of the Jetour T1 Lightning i-DM in Subic. The two-day drive allowed members of the motoring press to experience the model’s real-world performance, combining electric driving with extended hybrid range.
The T1 Lightning i-DM uses Jetour’s intelligent dual-motor hybrid system, which allows short-distance all-electric driving while delivering a total combined range of up to 1,200 kilometers. The company said the setup is designed to address range anxiety while reducing fuel consumption and emissions in daily use.
Inside, the vehicle emphasizes connectivity and driver assistance, offering advanced safety systems, a panoramic sunroof, a digital cockpit and wireless smartphone integration. Jetour Auto Philippines highlighted pricing as a key differentiator, positioning the T1 Lightning i-DM against traditional internal combustion SUVs rather than premium electrified rivals.
The model carries a suggested retail price of P1.898 million, with a limited introductory offer of P1.798 million. Jetour is also backing the vehicle with extended warranties covering the battery and engine as it seeks to build consumer confidence in its hybrid technology.
VinFast tackles EV depreciation head-on
Vietnamese EV maker VinFast is taking a different approach to easing consumer hesitation by focusing less on technical specifications and more on ownership risk. Through its Residual Value Guarantee campaign, the company is positioning itself as a brand willing to shoulder part of the depreciation associated with electric vehicles.
The campaign highlights a promise to retain up to 90 percent of a vehicle’s value under specific terms, directly addressing one of the most persistent concerns among EV-curious buyers: resale uncertainty. In markets where EV adoption is still developing, depreciation fears often outweigh concerns about charging access or driving range.
By framing the conversation around financial predictability rather than novelty, VinFast aims to “rewrite the rules of depreciation,” particularly for younger and first-time car buyers. The message aligns with the brand’s broader effort to differentiate itself through ownership programs rather than hardware alone.
Shell Rimula puts drivers at the center of transport change
As automakers roll out electrified vehicles, Shell Pilipinas Corp. has turned its attention to the human backbone of the transport sector. Through its Shell Rimula “Bida Ang Biyahe Ko!” campaign, the company highlighted the role of Filipino truck drivers and mechanics in keeping logistics and supply chains running.
The nationwide program, conducted across multiple provinces, combined road safety education, vehicle maintenance training, wellness activities and skills development sessions. Around 250 participants took part, with some qualifying for Technical Education and Skills Development Authority National Certificate I credentials after completing technical stages of the program.
Shell Rimula also used the platform to emphasize preventive maintenance and the growing demands placed on light commercial vehicles amid the expansion of e-commerce. Free eye checkups and other wellness services were included, reflecting a broader focus on driver well-being alongside technical competence.
Shell executives said the campaign underscores the company’s long-term commitment to the transport community as the sector adapts to heavier workloads, tighter delivery schedules and evolving vehicle technologies.
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