Let’s debunk some EV ownership myths

Living the EV lifestyle is much easier than you think

Want to own an Electric Vehicle (EV) in the Philippines but are uncertain about what the experience will be like? Let us debunk the myths surrounding EV ownership.

The electric future that forward-thinking motorists have been anticipating is already in the Philippines. The local automotive industry already offers a growing roster of EV models at price points to suit every budget. Look no further than BYD and KIA for a model to choose from.

And then there is the growing EV charging network that is being rolled out by ACMobility which already is the most expansive in the country—with even more charging points and locations to come.

ACMobility, BYD, and KIA are brands that are more than ready to meet the demands of the early adapting public that has already embraced EVs, and yet there are still some myths that surround Electric Vehicles in general.

Here are the facts that prove that choosing an EV can be the ideal choice for your transportation needs.

Myth #1: Long Charging Time

Depending on the kind of charger used, a BYD Atto 3 can reach an 85% charge in approximately 4 hours using a 7kW AC charger–ideal while at the office or running errands.

Even faster charging is possible at fast-charging stations that can be found across seven cities in Luzon. These 22kW AC and 60kW DC fast chargers will allow EV users to fully charge their vehicles as fast as 2 hours–ideal for when topping up the battery during out-of-town drives.

Myth #2: Limited Charging Stations

ACMobility reinforces its commitment to sustainable and responsible property development with its nationwide EV charging network. In fact, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed a financing package of up to $100 million to support Ayala Corporation’s contributions to the development of an electric mobility ecosystem in the Philippines. This funding will be used to procure and install electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS) and to purchase electric vehicles for commercial distribution.

Myth #3: Limited EV Range

The BYD Atto 3 Premium’s 60.4 kWh blade battery pack has a range of 480km on a single charge. The EV6 GT-Line offers a 77.4 kWh battery and can travel over 500km on a single charge. Trips to Baguio City from Metro Manila (251km) are possible and should quell any range-anxiety concerns. And for those who start their journey in Baguio at 95% charge, a non-stop trip to Los Banos with range left to spare can easily be done. We have done it. (LINK TO Los Banos-Baguio-Los Banos travel tips)

Myth #4: High Cost of Maintenance

When it comes to maintenance costs, it is more affordable to maintain an EV because it doesn’t require any engine oils, transmission fluids, and other lubricants that are required by cars powered by internal combustion engines. The savings are significant.

Over the course of five years, for example, a BYD Atto 3 will only need brake pads, brake fluid, AC filters, and wiper blades, with an estimated This will amount to P25,000. For comparison’s sake, an ICE SUV will need engine oil, filters, fluids, brake pads, wiper blades, belts, and coolants. Over five years, this will amount to roughly P110,000.

Myth #5: The cost of electricity versus the cost of fuel is not that much, so the savings are insignificant.

During a BYD test drive that was observed and verified by the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), the results were staggering. After 104km on the road–in real-world traffic and the occasional open highway–the BYD Dolphin only consumed 35% of its 44.9 kWh battery. This means that it only used 15.715kWh. That’s P1.70 per kilometer (based on kWh costs at the time of the test.) The closest ICE rival costs P4.62 to run (based on fuel cost per liter at the time of the test.) Extrapolate this data and over the course of a year (or 20,000km) the BYD Dolphin’s Transport cost is an estimated P33,944. In one year, an ICE will consume P92,477 in fuel.

Those are significant savings.

Myth #5 Safety Concerns

The Kia EV6 is the recipient of accolades which include European Car of the Year 2022 Award and a 5-Star Euro NCAP rating. The battery system (which is mounted low to the ground and on the floor) utilizes lithium-Ion battery cells. These are enclosed and resistant to large water splashes. This casing system has been given an IP 66 international rating. This rating is one of the most commonly-used for electrical enclosures with plastic hinges and waterproof gaskets. The EV6 is also equipped with a water-sensing system. In the unlikely event of water intrusion, it automatically shuts off the EV system if water exposure is beyond safety standards.

Systems are also in place to diagnose whether an EV6 has been exposed to flooding. For added peace of mind, Kia Philippines has the tools and EV6 specific equipment to address any concerns. The EV6 is also supported by parts and world-class trained technicians.

BYD models are known for their safety systems as well. In fact, the all-new BYD SEAL and BYD DOLPHIN full-electric vehicles have been awarded five-star safety ratings by Euro NCAP, Europe’s leading independent safety assessment program. The D-segment sedan BYD SEAL performed to a very high standard throughout the whole safety test process, illustrating the vehicle’s exceptional active and passive safety credentials and the structural benefits of BYD CTB (Cell to Body) technology. BYD’s C-segment hatchback, the BYD DOLPHIN, proved its excellent quality with high scores on adult and child occupant protection.

Euro NCAP created the star safety rating system to help consumers, their families and businesses compare vehicles more easily and to help them identify the safest choice for their needs. Both the BYD SEAL (D-segment sedan) and the BYD DOLPHIN (C-segment hatchback) received 5-star awards. Both the BYD SEAL and the BYD DOLPHIN were assessed by Euro NCAP engineers in four categories: adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, safety assistance, and protection for vulnerable road users.

Key to the maximum test result is BYD’s build quality and technology. BYD’s new generation e-Platform 3.0, comprises the world’s first mass-produced highly integrated 8-in-1 electric powertrain connecting all electric control units and management systems, and the rigorously tested ultra-safe Blade Battery. The BYD e-Platform 3.0 features a ‘multi-load path’ structure controlling how energy is absorbed by the car in the event of a collision, minimising intrusion into the passenger cabin.

Advanced Cell-to-Body technology

Passenger protection is further enhanced by a reinforced body structure with high torsional rigidity. The BYD SEAL has a super-sportscar-like torsional stiffness. During the safety test, this extra quality resulted in an excellent 89% score for Adult Occupant protection. Thanks to the Cell-to-Body (CTB) technology that enhances vehicle safety, also the passenger compartment of the BYD SEAL remained stable in the frontal offset test, showing good protection for both driver and passenger. Also, the BYD SEAL offered good protection against whiplash injuries. The advanced eCall-system and the system that applies the brakes after an impact to avoid secondary collisions received an extra mention.

Myth #6 EVs are expensive.

Now is the best time to buy an EV because of the very competitive prices that are not far off from their ICE counterparts. The BYD Atto 3 Dynamic variant is P1,598,000. The recently launched BYD eMax 7 is P1,498,000. BYD even offers the Seagull at P898,000. EV shopping has never been this enticing, especially when you consider the kind of technology that is being made available to you.

CONCLUSION

The potential of EVS has already become a reality. ACMobility is here to make EV ownership convenient, worry-free, and enjoyable. It has a social responsibility and solid commitment to sustainable mobility, sustainable energy, and a sustainable planet.

See past these myths and join the growing Philippine EV community to reap the many financial benefits of going electric.

Know your EV

Know your EV