EVAP debunks myths about electric vehicles

Electric vehicles (EV) have become a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in recent years, however, they continue to receive criticism and mistrust from some people.

Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) Chairman Rommel Juan debunks these myths so Filipinos would have a better understanding of EV.

Myth #1: EV use fossil fuels

There is a common misconception that EVs simply move the environmental responsibility from the tailpipe to the power plant. Critics claim that EVs are not a truly sustainable option because the majority of electricity is produced using fossil fuels.

According to Juan, this is proven to be wrong as the Renewable Energy Law mandates that up to 25% of all electricity produced must come from renewable sources such as solar, wind, biomass, and geothermal.

Myth #2: EV will burden the power grid

Another common myth is that the widespread use of EVs will shut down the Philippine power grid.

Juan debunked this, saying, “The Department of Energy has crafted charging strategies that can prevent overloading and even support grid reliability. EVs can be charged during off-peak hours, reducing the strain on the grid. Additionally, the concept of vehicle-to-grid technology allows EV to act as a power source that can even push energy back into the grid when needed.”

Myth #3: EV are more fire-prone

There is also a notion that EV are more likely to catch fire than ICE vehicles, however, Juan pointed out that there is no study that proves this misconception.

In reality, the safety records of EV are on par or even better than those of ICE vehicles.

Myth #4: EV cannot be used in flooded roads

There are also concerns about EVs becoming unusable when there is flood, particularly in flood-prone areas like Manila. Juan refutes this misconception by pointing out that the Ingress Protection (IP) ratings of EV motors range from IP67 to IP68. An IP67-rated component can withstand being submerged up to one meter of water for 30 without being damaged.

Due to their high level of water resistance, EVs are not much at risk from floods, making them a practical choice in flood-prone areas.

Myth #5: EV doesn't have insufficient range

Some critics argue that EVs lack range to meet Filipinos' needs for daily transportation. Juan addressed this, saying, “EV range is more than enough for typical daily use in the Philippines. Most models offer a range of over 300 to 400 kilometers (km), while the typical Filipino daily drive is approximately 40km.”

EVAP Executive Director Dr. Manny Biona also debunked this misconception, citing that China, a major player in the EV market, imposed a minimum range requirement of 400km for EVs to be eligible for subsidies. This strategic move considerably increased the range of EVs globally, guaranteeing customers have enough range for their everyday travel needs.

Myth #6: There is lack of EV charging infrastructure

There are also concerns about the lack of EV charging infrastructure in the Philippines, however, Juan claimed, “EVs can be plugged into the same type of outlet as your electric fan, and in fact, there are more and more charging stations being set up by various EVAP members every day.”

The expanding EV charging infrastructure network in the country guarantees that EV owners will have even more convenient access to charging facilities.

Learn more about EVs at the 11th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit on October 19 to 21 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

Photos from Hyundai Motor Philippines Incorporated, Roy Robles, Shell Philippines Corporation, and Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines

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