The Department of Energy (DOE) is teaming up with Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) to encourage the use of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in the country.
Business World reported that the DOE had signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with MMPC, the Philippine extension of the Japanese brand Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, to rent out a PHEV unit.
PHEVs are electric vehicles that have a rechargeable energy storage system. These vehicles could be charged using an external electric energy source.
Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla urged the corporation to broaden its innovations to other EV infrastructure and EV charging stations as a means to support the clean transport movement.
Furthermore, developing soft skills in new technologies should also be considered. Under the mandate of Republic Act No. 11697 or the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act, the DOE planned to increase the rollout of EVs in the country to 10%, or at least by 5%.
By 2028, the DOE aims to roll out 2.45 million EVs, including buses, motorcycles, cars, tricycles, and 65,000 EV charging stations across the country.
In December last year, the Department of Energy (DOE) reported approximately 194 battery electric vehicles (EVs), 19 plug-in hybrid EVs, 30 hybrid EVs, and 32 light EVs registered. Additionally, 96 commercial EV charging stations had been deployed.
