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As the world shifts towards a more sustainable future, electric cars are becoming increasingly popular in the Philippines. Not only are they eco-friendly, but they are also cost-effective in the long run. However, for someone who has never owned an electric car before, the process of buying an electric car and finding one available in the Philippines can seem daunting, and we are here to help!

Understanding Electric Cars: What You Need to Know Before Buying

Before purchasing an electric car, it’s important to understand how they work. Unlike gasoline-powered cars, electric cars run on a rechargeable battery. They are powered by an electric motor, which converts the energy stored in the battery to mechanical energy to propel the car. It’s also essential to know the range of the car, which is the distance it can travel on a single charge.

Finding the Right Electric Car Model for Your Needs

Once you understand the basics of electric cars, the next step is to find the right model that fits your needs. You should consider factors such as range, size, and features.

Some popular electric car models available in the Philippines include: 

•  Nissan Leaf (Starting price at Php 2,798,000)
•  Hyundai Ioniq (Starting price at Php 3,068,000)
• Tesla Model 3 (Starting price at PHP 2,640,000)

Comparing the Cost of Owning an Electric Car vs. a Gasoline-Powered Car

When comparing the cost of owning an electric car versus a gasoline-powered car, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Purchase price: Electric cars tend to be more expensive upfront than gasoline-powered cars. However, there are federal and state tax incentives available that can help offset this cost.

• Fuel costs: Electric cars are cheaper to fuel than gasoline-powered cars. The cost of electricity is generally much lower than gasoline, and electric cars are more efficient at using that energy. According to the US Department of Energy, the average cost to fuel an electric car is about one-third the cost of fueling a gasoline car.

• Maintenance costs: Electric cars have fewer moving parts than gasoline-powered cars, so they tend to require less maintenance. For example, electric cars do not need oil changes. However, electric car batteries may need to be replaced eventually, which can be expensive.

• Resale value: It is still too early to make definitive conclusions on the resale value of electric cars as the market continues to evolve, but some studies suggest that they may hold their value better than gasoline-powered cars.

Charging Your Electric Car: Tips and Options Available in the Philippines

One of the biggest concerns of electric car owners is the availability of charging stations. Fortunately, the Philippines has a growing network of charging stations, and several options are available for home charging. It’s important to understand the different types of chargers and charging times.

Charging at home

• Level 1 charging: Only a plug and socket are needed, making it the most common and convenient way to charge an electric car at home.
• Level 2 charging: Drivers can install a home charging station in their garage for faster charging and various smart features like energy monitoring and software updates.

Charging at work

• More companies are offering on-site workplace charging to their employees for sustainability purposes.
• Drivers can charge their vehicles parked outside their offices while working.

Charging at public charging stations:

• Public charging stations are being installed in more locations such as apartment buildings, public parking lots, supermarkets, malls, and gyms.
• Many public charging stations are free, while others require a fee, particularly for DC fast chargers.
• Gas stations and highway services now also have charging points for long-distance journeys or emergencies.

Levels of charging speeds

• Level 1: Charging operates by plugging the charging cord into a 120-volt socket. This is the slowest method of charging and can be useful when a vehicle is parked overnight or for quite a long time. Some home chargers operate this type of charging.

• Level 2: Charging stations supply power through a 240 volt and can be found in many dedicated home and public charging stations. Level 2 charging stations are ideal when a car is parked for a couple of hours. Owners of battery-electric cars generally install a level 2 charging station at home.

• DC fast charging: Uses direct current (DC), not alternating current (AC) that is used at home. This type of charging is ideal when the driver is on a long-distance trip or runs out of time. DC fast chargers are available in some public charging points.

Maintenance and Repairs for Electric Cars: Finding the Right Service Center

Electric cars require less maintenance than gasoline-powered cars, but it’s still important to find the right service center for repairs and maintenance. It’s essential to choose a service center that specializes in electric cars to ensure proper maintenance and repairs.

Tips to Keep in Mind

The Philippines is slowly transitioning to electric cars, and for those considering purchasing one, there are some key tips to keep in mind. 

It’s essential to know the different types of electric cars available in the market, including BEVs, PHEVs, and HEVs. Researching the available models and their specifications, features, and price range is also important to make an informed decision. 

Additionally, it’s essential to check the availability of charging stations in your area or along your regular routes to ensure convenient and hassle-free charging. Considering the potential cost savings of electric cars in terms of fuel costs, maintenance, and other expenses over time can also help determine if it’s a good investment. – WhatALife!/Jayve

Sources: (1), (2), (3), (4)

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Also read: LIST: Go Electric! The Best Electric Cars in the Philippines