2023 PEVS: The 6 coolest new electric vehicles from the show

The 11th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS) had a much more lively atmosphere compared to the one in 2022.

Held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City from October 19 to 21, 2023, the event had many more visitors who were curious about joining the “electric revolution.” Indeed, it felt more like a smaller version of the annual Manila International Auto Show.

This is hardly surprising because the government has granted numerous incentives to EV buyers who want to veer away from ever-rising fuel costs.

First was the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act, followed by an executive order granting zero import duties for imported EVs that drastically reduced the SRP of several models.

That’s why, aside from the bevy of companies offering EV charging stations for homes and commercial establishments, carmakers were also at the 2023 PEVS to show off their latest hybrid and EV models.

And in case you think EVs are still slow shopping trolleys that are only good for short trips, these five new cars from the show might have you think again.

Lotus Eletre R

918 PS. 985 Nm of torque. 0 to 100 km/h in 2.95 seconds.

Not even the likes of the recently launched Lamborghini Urus S or the Aston Martin DBX707 get close to the mind-boggling performance of the all-electric Lotus Eletre R.

Undoubtedly the star of the show, this bright yellow SUV can easily outpace its internal combustion rivals, all while producing zero tailpipe emissions and offering up to 490 km of range.

And with an introductory price of just Php 9,990,000, it makes the Php 33,500,000 asking price for the DBX707 seem rather excessive, don’t you think?

READ: 2023 PEVS: Lotus Cars Manila launches 918-PS Eletre R EV crossover with PhP 9.99M introductory price

GWM Ora 03

GWM Philippines has so far impressed me with its full-hybrid crossovers, which are credible alternatives to the pricier and less well-equipped models from Toyota and Honda.

But the company is placing its bet in the EV stakes with the Ora 03, which makes the BYD Dolphin look like a Mitsubishi L300. Aside from cute looks and a fabulously plush interior, the Ora 03 packs 145 PS and 210 Nm of torque, with a claimed maximum range of 370 km.

No official prices have been announced yet, although we hear that GWM Philippines has the Nissan LEAF in its sights. So expect this cute EV baby to cost under Php 2 million.

READ: PREVIEW: GWM Philippines to enter EV segment with the Ora 03

Chery eQ1

On to another cute EV hatchback, this time from Chery Auto.

The Chinese carmaker previewed three electrified models at the 2023 PEVS, including the Chery eQ1. With three doors and room for four, it certainly has what it takes to be an ideal city car.

Under the funky body is an electric motor that pumps out 75 PS and 150 Nm of torque while offering a claimed maximum range of 281 km.

No official word yet on prices, but the eQ1 at the show was generously equipped with electric seats, a moonroof, and a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

READ: 2023 PEVS: Chery Philippines unveils the Tiggo 7 Pro PHEV and eQ1, eQ7 EVs

BYD ATTO 3

It goes without saying that BYD is one of the few companies in the world that makes Tesla nervous.

The Chinese carmaker is indisputably a global leader in EV tech and has made considerable headway in producing cars that look sensational and go quickly. The upcoming BYD ATTO 3 crossover continues this philosophy.

Slated to officially launch in the Philippines on November 2023, the ATTO 3 is expected to cost around the Php 2 million mark.

READ: Targeted at P2M -- BYD ATTO 3 to launch at Philippine EV Summit on Oct. 19

Chery eQ7

Chery Auto Philippines wants to outpace its Japanese and Korean rivals by unveiling a compact EV crossover that won’t cost you most of your internal organs.

In this case, it is likely to be the eQ7, which bears a striking resemblance to the very pretty Jetour Dashing. You get 211 PS and 285 Nm of torque from its electric motor, along with a claimed maximum range of 512 km.

With two 12.3-inch screens and a vast number of active-safety features, all the Chery eQ7 needs is the right price to draw people into the showroom.

Hongqi E-QM5

China’s longest-running carmaker, Hongqi, also produces the most luxurious vehicles from the People’s Republic.

Although the idea of a communist country producing cars for the elite would likely make Karl Marx or Mao Zedong roll in their graves, Hongqi is certainly continuing the company’s upper-crust traditions with the E-QM5 sedan.

Despite being about as long as a Toyota Land Cruiser, this EV costs just Php 1,780,000. For that money, you get a palatial cabin with full leather upholstery, electric front and rear seats, acoustic glass and screens for the rear passengers.

Powering this executive sedan is a 190 PS electric motor, while the claimed maximum range is 400 km.

READ: Hongqi Philippines inaugurates first showroom; Introduces 3 new models

Which of the new cars at the 2023 PEVS did you like the most?

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