Electric vehicle adoption gains momentum in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines — Even before the electric vehicle (EV) trend gains full momentum in the Philippines, Cebuano investors are positioning themselves for the anticipated surge in demand for eco-friendly transportation.

Eres Automotive Inc., headed by chief executive officer (CEO) Carlo Joseph Japson, has opened its first dealership facility in Cebu, introducing Chinese EV brands Omoda and Jaecoo to the local market. This is the first of several planned showrooms across Cebu and the Philippines, reflecting the company’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the country.

Japson is optimistic about the growth potential for EVs in the Philippines, citing the country’s growing population and the increasing interest in sustainable mobility solutions.

“With a rising demand for electric and hybrid vehicles, we see great potential in Cebu and the broader Philippine market. Our partnership with Omoda and Jaecoo will allow us to introduce innovative and eco-friendly vehicles to Filipino drivers who are ready to embrace a cleaner, more sustainable way of driving,” Japson said.

Eres Automotive opened its first dealership inside Gaisano Mall in the North Reclamation Area of Cebu City. The launch marked the Philippine debut of Omoda and Jaecoo, two brands under Chery’s international vehicle portfolio.

These brands offer electric and hybrid vehicles with a focus on performance, fuel efficiency, and sustainability, alongside style, comfort, and safety.

Terry Hu, country director of Omoda and Jaecoo Motor Philippines, emphasized Cebu’s strategic role as a business hub and a gateway to the Visayan market.

“As the Queen City of the South, Cebu connects islands and communities, making it an ideal location for our first dealership. We’re confident Cebu will be a successful home for Omoda and Jaecoo,” said Hu.

Eres Automotive has introduced several innovative EV models: Omoda C5: Designed with Omoda’s “Cross F Futur” philosophy, it features advanced technologies like a Smart Key with Remote Engine Start and a Voice Control Command System. Priced under PHP 1.3 million, it offers exceptional value.

Omoda E5: A fully electric vehicle with a WLTP-rated range of 430 km and fast-charging capabilities that recharge from 30 percent to 80 percent in just 28 minutes. It is priced under PHP 1.7 million and comes with a complimentary 7kW wall charger for the Comfort variant.

Jaecoo EJ6: A versatile electric SUV available in RWD and AWD configurations. With a range of up to 421 km and a tech-rich cabin, it is equipped with adaptive cruise control, wireless charging, and advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring.

Expansion Plans

Eres Automotive is set to expand its reach with showrooms in Leyte and other parts of the Visayas. The company is also working on partnerships to establish EV charging stations across the region.

By 2025, Omoda and Jaecoo Philippines aim to open additional dealerships nationwide, reinforcing their commitment to providing sustainable transportation solutions for Filipino consumers.

As EV adoption gains traction, Cebu is poised to become a central hub for green mobility, with Eres Automotive leading the charge.