Text and photo by Monch Henares
Thinking about switching to an electrified vehicle but not quite ready to go full EV? You’re not alone! Many Filipino drivers love the idea of saving on gas but worry about charging stations (or lack thereof). That’s where hybrids, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) come in, offering different levels of electrification. It’s kind of like choosing between regular milk tea, 50% sugar, or full-on sugar overload—each one has its pros and cons, but which gives you the best value in the Philippines? Let’s break it down.
A conventional hybrid is the easiest and most hassle-free option. It runs on a gasoline engine assisted by an electric motor, improving fuel efficiency without needing to be plugged in. The battery charges itself through regenerative braking, so you never have to worry about finding a charger in the middle of EDSA traffic. Popular hybrid models in the Philippines include the Toyota Corolla Altis Hybrid and the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, both offering fuel economy of around 4–5 liters per 100 kilometers. Maintenance is also easy since hybrid engines experience less wear and tear than traditional gasoline cars. If you want to save on gas without changing your driving habits, this is your best bet.
If you’re a bit more adventurous and want to drive on full electric power for short trips, then a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) is a great middle ground. PHEVs come with a bigger battery that lets you drive purely on electricity for 25 to 80 kilometers before switching to gasoline. That means you can do your daily commute on battery power alone, assuming you remember to charge it. However, that’s the catch—you do need to plug it in to get the most out of it. If you have a home charger or access to public charging stations, perfect! If not, you might find yourself strategically planning your mall visits based on where the chargers are located. One of the best PHEVs in the Philippines right now is the BYD Sealion 6 DM-i, which boasts a total range of 1,000 kilometers when using both electric and gasoline power. Since the gasoline engine is used less often, maintenance costs are lower compared to traditional cars, which means more savings for other important things—like your next Lazada haul.
Now, if you’re someone who’s almost ready to go full EV but still wants a backup plan, then an extended-range EV (EREV) might be for you. Unlike a PHEV, an EREV runs mostly on electricity, but with a small gasoline engine that works as a generator when the battery runs low. That means the engine never directly powers the wheels—it just recharges the battery when needed. In the Philippines, the Seres 5 is one of the few EREVs available, offering 184 kilometers of pure electric driving before its gasoline generator kicks in, extending the total range to 1,250 kilometers. This setup lets you enjoy the smooth, silent drive of an EV without worrying about running out of battery. The downside? Because EREVs have more complex systems, repairs can be pricier if something goes wrong. Still, since they rely mostly on electric power, maintenance costs are much lower than gasoline vehicles.
So, which one should you choose? If you want zero hassle and minimal changes to your lifestyle, go for a hybrid. It’s fuel-efficient and easy to maintain. If you’re curious about EVs but not ready to fully commit, a PHEV is a great stepping stone. You get to experience electric driving while still having the security of a gasoline engine. If you want the closest thing to a full EV without fully depending on charging stations, an EREV is your best bet.
For most Filipinos, PHEVs offer the best balance of fuel savings, convenience, and long-term value. They let you enjoy the benefits of electric driving for short trips while still having a gasoline engine for long journeys. Plus, with fuel prices constantly rising, any excuse to use less gas is a good one! So, are you team hybrid, PHEV, or EREV? Whatever you choose, one thing’s for sure—it’s time to start thinking electric.
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