Hybrid Electric Vehicles are picking up in numbers and availability in the Philippines. With their obvious fuel efficiency advantage, and the lack of a Battery EV charging infrastructure at the moment, do you see yourself driving a Hybrid?

• Intro to Hybrid Cars
• What's a Hybrid Car?
• What are the Key Components of a Hybrid Car's Powertrain?
• Types of Hybrid Systems
• Pros and Cons of Owning A Hybrid Car
• Hybrid Cars in the Philippines
• Toyota Prius
• Toyota Camry Hybrid
• Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8V Hybrid
• Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8V Hybrid
• Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LTD
• Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV
• Geely Azkarra
• Geely Okavango
• Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
• Mazda 3 2.0L Sedan M Hybrid
• Mazda CX-30 2.0L M Hybrid
• Lexus LS 500h Premier
• Lexus UX Series Hybrid
• Lexus NX Series Hybrid
• Lexus RX 450h Hybrid
• Mercedes Benz S and GLS Class Hybrid
• Nissan Kicks
• Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid 3.0
• Summary: The Bottom Line

Intro to Hybrid Cars

As gas prices continue to skyrocket, any chance of a substantial price rollback happening soon seems close to impossible. But in a country like the Philippines, where owning a car is a necessity, motorists have no choice but to spend more money on fuel.

While there are plenty of fuel-efficient minicars, a number of car manufacturers are addressing these concerns with their version of hybrid cars. There are already several car manufacturers in the Philippines with a hybrid car in their vehicle line-up.  

Simply put, a hybrid car's setup combines at least one electric motor with a gasoline engine to move the vehicle. Its system recaptures electrical energy through the gas engine to charge and maintain the battery or by regenerative braking. Sometimes the electric motor does all the work, sometimes it's the gas engine, and sometimes they work together. Nevertheless, the main objective here is less gasoline burned and, therefore, gaining better fuel economy.

The recent passing of the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) in the Philippines, as well as the prevailing Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law, have given car manufacturers and vehicle importers in the Philippines the incentives needed to bring in more and more hybrid models in the Philippines. To date, Toyota leads the way with the number of hybrid vehicles, followed by other manufacturers like Nissan, Mitsubishi, Mazda, and Geely.

What's a hybrid car?

Simply put, a hybrid car runs on a system that utilizes two means of propulsion - an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. Both work together to turn the wheels and move the car using less fuel. This ultimately leads to better fuel efficiency and lesser CO2 emissions. Proving the effectivity of the hybrid system, the excess power produced by the combined powertrain during cruising or braking is used to charge the batteries, helping gain better fuel efficiency and longer driving range.

What are the key components of a hybrid car's powertrain?

As its name suggests, a hybrid car's powertrain is composed of an internal combustion engine, electric motor, electric generator, and batteries.

Internal Combustion Engine

A hybrid vehicle has a gasoline engine. This is still the main power source of the vehicle in combination with one or more electric motors using the energy stored in the batteries. The ICE is configured more for fuel efficiency, adopting the Atkinson cycle which has a longer expansion stroke than a compression stroke. In modern ICEs, this type of combustion cycle has been mimicked by variable valve timing technology, which allows the engine to be efficient but can provide more power when needed through optimized valve timing.

Electric Motor

This is the feature that makes the hybrid vehicle particularly special. The electric motor has the ability to accelerate the vehicle by taking power from the battery. However, it can also give power back to the battery once the vehicle slows down.

Electric Generator

If you have a series type of hybrid vehicle, it has a generator that is powered by a gasoline engine. From there, the generator can generate power for the electric motor and help recharge the battery. It is basically a way of converting gasoline into electrical energy for the motor and battery.

Batteries

The batteries are what power the electric motor of a hybrid car. Not only that, but the batteries can actually take power back from the electric motor too. This is one way their lifespan or service life can be preserved.

Types of Hybrid Systems

There are several types of hybrid cars; Parallel hybrids, Series hybrids, Plug-in hybrids, Mild hybrids and High-Performance hybrids.

Parallel Hybrid

This is the most common hybrid design where the electric motor(s) and the gasoline engine are connected to a common transmission that blends the two power sources. That transmission can be an automatic, a manual, or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Brands that use the parallel design include Toyota, Lexus, Hyundai, Kia, Ford, Honda, Lincoln, Nissan, and Infiniti.

Example: Corolla Cross Hybrid

Series Hybrid

In this design, the electric motor provides all the thrust, and there is never a physical mechanical connection between the engine and the wheels. The gasoline engine is just there to recharge the battery. This results in a driving experience that's more indicative of an electric car, with smoother, powerful acceleration.

Example: Nissan Kicks e-Power

Plug-In Hybrid

As the name suggests, its battery pack requires plugging into an external source of electricity in order to fully recharge. PHEVs can be run in just electric mode. It usually comes with a bigger battery that can offer a daily commute on electric power only. When the car's electric range is exhausted, it operates like a typical parallel hybrid.

Example: Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV

Mild Hybrid

All of the aforementioned types of hybrid systems are considered "full hybrids," which means that the electric motor is capable of moving the car by itself, even if it's for a short distance. In a "mild" hybrid, it cannot. Just as in a full hybrid, a mild hybrid's electric motor is there to assist the gasoline engine for the purposes of improving fuel economy, increasing performance, or both. It also serves as the starter for the automatic start-stop system, which shuts down the engine when the car comes to a stop to save fuel. Mild hybrid setups allow the electricity stored in the car's battery pack to power the electrical components of the vehicle while the engine is shut down, for example, at an intersection. 

Example: Geely Azkarra

High-Performance Hybrid

Hybrid cars are about more than just maximizing fuel efficiency. Another type of hybrid use this technology to boost performance. The LaFerrari, for example charges its batteries during braking or every time the combustion engine produces more torque than required, like when cornering. The excess energy (stored by the batteries) is then used to provide a boost the next time the driver accelerates.

Examples: McLaren P1, Ferrari LaFerrari, and Porsche 918 Spyder

Pros and Cons of Owning A Hybrid Car

As with any technology, there are also good and bad points that should be considered when buying a hybrid vehicle.

Pros of Owning a Hybrid Car

• Improved Fuel Economy - This is probably the most significant advantage because the electric motor can take over or assist the gasoline engine, drastically reducing fuel consumption.  
• Eco-Friendly - Because hybrid cars have electric motors, gas engines tend to consume less fuel, leading to reduced carbon dioxide emissions.
• Smoother and Quieter Engine - An electric motor provides higher torque than a traditional gasoline engine. This allows a hybrid car to accelerate faster and with little noise, resulting in a smoother drive.
• Number Coding Exemptions - Under Republic Act (R.A.) 11697 or the “Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act,” which lapsed into law on April 15, 2022, EVs are exempted from all number-coding schemes until April 2030.
• Tax Cuts - Under the Philippine law, pure electric vehicles are 100 percent exempted from excise tax, while Hybrid plug-in electric cars enjoy a 50 percent exemption.

Cons of Owning a Hybrid Car

• More Costly  - This is one of the main reasons why it cannot match conventional cars in terms of sales figures.
• Low Performance - Most hybrids are primarily designed to be fuel-efficient cars where top speed and sheer neck-snapping acceleration are not a priority. Hybrids encourage you to drive slower to utilize more electric motor power to help save fuel.
• More Tech - Hybrids carry the latest technology available from the manufacturer. This is why it can be tricky and expensive to repair just in case something goes wrong.

Also Read: Why you should buy a hybrid, and why you shouldn't

Hybrid Cars in the Philippines

Here's a quick look at some of the hybrid cars that are currently available in the Philippines

Toyota Prius

Currently available in its fourth generation, the Toyota Prius is one of the first hybrids in the Philippines since Toyota Motors Philippines brought it in 2009. The current-gen Toyota Prius comes with a 1.8-liter gasoline engine and an electric motor with a Hybrid Synergy Drive engine. This is then paired to an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with ECO and Power Mode settings electric motor generating a maximum power output of 72 hp and a peak torque of 142 Nm.

Quick Specs

• Body Type: Sedan
• Engine: 1.8-liter, 16-Valve DOHC, 4-Cylinder, In-line, Dual VVT-i
• Electric Motor: AC Synchronous Electric Motor
• Transmission: e-CVT
• Total System Performance: 122 PS and 142 Nm
• Price: ₱2,436,000

Toyota Camry Hybrid

Quick Specs

• Body Type: Sedan
• Engine: 2.5-liter, 16-Valve DOHC, 4-Cylinder, In-line, VVT-iE (Intake), VVT-I (Exhaust)
• Electric Motor: AC Synchronous Electric Motor
• Transmission: e-CVT
• Performance: 211 PS and 221 Nm 
• Price: ₱2,417,000

Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8V Hybrid

Based on the Toyota Corolla Altis, the new crossover brings a higher ride height and a hybrid powerplant option. Similar to its sedan counterpart, it has a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine with an electric motor. When combined, the gasoline engine and the electric motor bring the total output of the Corolla Cross to 120 hp and 142 Nm of torque. This is mated to a CVT which exclusively sends power to the front wheels.

Quick Specs

• Body type: SUV
• Engine: 1.8-liter naturally-aspirated gasoline
• Electric Motor: AC Synchronous Electric Motor
• Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
• Performance: 122 PS and 142 Nm
• Driving Range:
• Price: ₱1,774,000

Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8V Hybrid

The current generation Corolla Altis is now on its 12^th generation bringing with it a level of refinements in terms of exterior style and all the latest technology. More importantly, this includes Toyota’s new hybrid system that combines a 1.8-liter engine and an electric motor for a total output of 121 ps and 142 Nm of torque. Apart from the hybrid system, the car is just like any other current gen Corolla Altis with the hallmark Toyota quality.

Quick Specs

• Body type: Compact Sedan
• Engine: 1.8-liter, Inline-4, naturally-aspirated, VVT-I, 4-Cylinder In-Line DOHC, 16 Valve
• Electric Motor: AC Synchronous Electric Motor
• Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
• Performance: 121 ps and 142 Nm of torque
• Price: ₱1,595,000

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LTD

Quick Specs

• Body Type: Compact Crossover
• Engine: 2.5-liter, Dual VVT-I inline-4 gasoline engine
• Electric Motor: Permanent-magnet synchronous AC motor
• Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
• Performance: 218 PS and 221 Nm
• Driving Range: 67 km
• Price: ₱2,264,000 - ₱2,622,000

Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV

The Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV is a 7-seater SUV that utilizes Chery’s T1X platform that offers better headroom for both front and rear seats. The said platform features a higher ground clearance, giving it ideal approach and departure angles for better off-road capability. With a 1.5-liter gasoline engine mated to an electric motor, the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV has a combined power output of 324 PS and 545 Nm of torque. What’s more, the Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV comes loaded with all kinds of safety and tech features that all come as standard.

Quick Specs

• Body Type: SUV
• Engine: 1.5L Gasoline Engine, In-Line 4 Cylinder 16 Valve
• Electric Motor: Electric Motor
• Transmission: Chery Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT)
• Performance: 324 PS and 545 Nm of Torque
• Price: ₱2,500,000

Geely Azkarra

Geely Azkarra is Geely's mild hybrid compact crossover that's powered by a 48-volt Electric Motor Synergy and a 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder, turbocharged gasoline engine. The hybrid system is a 48-volt Energy Management System that stores energy and directs power to either add more power to the vehicle or put it into the electric-only mode for short trips. While it's not as fuel-efficient as the other cars on the list because it is a mild hybrid system, it's still more fuel-efficient than most traditional SUVs.

Quick Specs

• Body type: SUV
• Engine: a 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder, turbocharged gasoline engine
• Electric Motor: 48-volt Electric Motor Synergy System
• Transmission: Automatic 7-Speed Wet DCT
• Performance: 176 PS, 300 Nm
• Price: Starts at ₱1,665,000

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is Mitsubishi Motors Philippines' crossover entry in the hybrid segment. It's also the first plug-in hybrid SUV powered by a twin electric motor system that can deliver power independently to the front and rear wheels. It comes powered by a 2.4-liter MIVEC naturally aspirated gasoline engine that produces 128 hp and 199 Nm of torque and is paired with two electric motors that produce another 177 PS for a 4WD layout. It has an average fuel efficiency rating of 15.5 km/L. Mitsubishi claims that it takes only 5.5 hours to charge it fully and emits up to 61% less carbon dioxide making it one of the most eco-friendly crossover.

Quick Specs

• Body type: SUV
• Engine: 2.4-liter, Inline-4 Gasoline engine
• Electric Motor: Twin Electric Motor System
• Transmission: Automatic
• Performance: 305 PS, 531 Nm 
• Driving Range: 55 km
• Price: Starts at ₱2,998,000

Mazda 3 2.0-L Sedan M Hybrid

Mazda recently released its hybrid car models, and one of them is the Mazda 3 Hybrid. This sedan is powered by the new e-Skyactiv-G M Hybrid system. This system comprises a 2.0-liter four-cylinder Skyactiv-G engine assisted by a 24-volt hybrid lithium-ion battery mated with a DC/DC converter, an integrated starter generator, and a regenerative friction brake coordination system. The mild hybrid setup allows the battery to power electrical components even when the engine is shut off during a stop. It produces a total of 164 PS and 213 Nm of torque.

Quick Specs

• Body type: Sedan
• Engine: 2.0-liter, Inline four-cylinder, Skyactiv-G engine
• Electric Motor: Integrated Starter Generator
• Transmission: Automatic
• Performance: 164 PS, 213 Nm
• Price: ₱1,695,000

Mazda CX-30 2.0L M Hybrid

This is a compact SUV hybrid that is sandwiched between the Mazda CX-3 and Mazda CX-5. The Mazda M Hybrid maximizes every energy normally wasted during braking. Instead of being unused, the kinetic energy is stored as electric energy in the battery. It is then used to start the engine from idling stop and power the car's electrical components. Using this stored energy eases the engine's load, thus improving fuel efficiency and reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

Quick Specs

• Body Type: SUV
• Engine: 2.0-liter, Inline 4 Cylinder, 16-valve, DOHC
• Electric Motor: Integrated Starter Generator
• Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
• Performance: 164 PS and 213 Nm of torque
• Price: ₱1,990,000

Nissan Kicks El e-Power

Technically speaking, the Nissan Kicks is a series hybrid subcompact crossover that comes equipped with a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine whose only purpose is to power its electric motor. The one responsible for propelling the car is the electric motor that pushes out 134hp and 280 Nm of torque that's paired with a 2.13 kWh Lithium-ion battery pack. This allows it to run in pure EV mode for about 5 kilometers until the engine starts and tops up the battery. Because it uses an electric motor, the Kicks offers instant acceleration and torque for superior power delivery and comes with three driving modes, Eco, Normal, and Sport.

Quick Specs

• Body Type: Subcompact Crossover
• Engine: 1.2-liter 3-cylinder gasoline
• Electric Motor: Nissan e-Motor
• Transmission: Automatic
• Performance: 136 PS
• Price: ₱1,209,000

Geely Okavango

If you're looking for something slightly bigger and has more seats than the Geely Azkarra, then the Geely Okavango is it. This seven-seater SUV has the same power as the Azkarra, but its size slightly affects its fuel efficiency at 15 km/L. What's great about the Geely Okavango is that it has successfully combined all the positive traits of an SUV and all the practical features of an MPV. Overall, the Okavango presents a good alternative over the rest of the competition based on what it has to offer and its hybrid powerplant.

Quick Specs

• Body Type: MPV
• Engine:  1.5-liter, turbocharged, 3-cylinder engine
• Electric Motor: a 48-volt Electric Motor Synergy System
• Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic Wet DCT
• Performance: 193 PS and 300 Nm
• Price: ₱1,503,000 - ₱1,765,000

Lexus LS 500h Premier

The LS represents the flagship sedan model that embodies innovation, refinement, and, most of all dependability. The Lexus LS 500h Premier Hybrid comes with a powerful 3.5-liter, direct injection V6 engine paired with two self-charging electric motors, producing a total of 420 PS. The LS comes with a well-appointed interior, an elegantly styled exterior, and a comprehensive list of features that befits a luxury sedan.

Quick Specs

• Body Type: Sedan
• Engine: 3.5-liter, V6, 4 Valves/Cylinder, DOHC
• Electric Motor: 1 Permanent magnet synchronous
• Transmission: Automatic (CVT) 10 Gears, Manual Override & Paddle Shift, Sport Mode
• Performance: 420 PS @ 6,000 rpm
• Price: ₱11,638,000

Lexus UX

The Lexus UX a showcase of Lexus’ innovative design, luxury features, and advanced safety. It combines charismatic styling elements and an ultra-efficient powertrain. Integral features that take inspiration from a vibrant Japanese heritage which are proudly built and engineered by master craftsmen.  Available in the UX 250h F Sport and UX 250h Premier, these models are very responsive to drive and, like all Lexus hybrids, offer better fuel efficiency and lower emissions. They also require no plugging in for recharging and have no issues where driving range is concerned.

• Lexus UX 250h Premier: Price: ₱3,058,000
• Lexus UX 250h F SPORT : Price: ₱3,798,000

Lexus NX

The hybrid Lexus NX 350h Premier and NX 350h Executive are powered by a powerful engine with a high-output electric motor. What makes it different is that it uses a control logic exclusive to Lexus to achieve an optimized balance between acceleration performance and reduced fuel consumption. The gasoline engine develops 192 PS and 239Nm of torque, while the front and rear motor generators add 184 PS and 55 PS, respectively. The NX 350h Premier comes with electric folding rear seats, a 17-speaker Mark Levinson Surround Sound system, and a power rear hatch with a kick sensor.

• Lexus NX 350h Premier : ₱4,628,000
• Lexus NX 350h : ₱3,438,000

Lexus RX 450h

The Mid-size Luxury Crossover Hybrid Electric. The RX 450h makes a bold and completely new statement in this segment while building on and staying true to the pioneering values of previous hybrid RX generations. It features the Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System that brings a new level of technology and a heightened driving experience to a Lexus crossover.

• Lexus RX 450h : ₱5,398,000
• Performance: 312 PS @ 6,000 rpm

Mercedes-Benz Hybrid Vehicles

With a rich heritage of building fine automobiles, Mercedes Benz continues to epitomize sheer luxury with a premium cabin and a finely executed exterior that’s understated with a lot of class. Now they’re using all their knowledge towards developing electric mobility, from hybrids and full electric vehicles to deliver the level of luxury and performance that can only come from Mercedes-Benz.

• Mercedes Benz S-Class S 400 Blue Hybrid
• Mercedes Benz GLC Class Hybrid

Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid 3.0

The Porsche Cayenne Hybrid is an excellent two-row luxury SUV. It boasts a powerful plug-in-hybrid system that’s remarkably agile. Its interior is spacious and comfortable with a user-friendly widescreen infotainment system. Power comes from a 3.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine generating 340 PS and 450 Nm of torque.

Summary

Before you go out and buy yourself a hybrid car, consider first what you and the environment have to gain, such as saving money on fuel and lessening your carbon footprint. It’s also a good idea to take a good look at your lifestyle, needs, and expectations from a car.

A hybrid car may fit your budget and take you places, but it might not offer the seating capacity, performance, and style you’re looking for. So do your research first. Hopefully, the list of HEVs above has given you a peak of what models are currently available and which ones have the best features, specifications, and, most importantly, price that fits your needs. 

Also Read: The Top 10 Cheapest Cars in the Philippines in 2022