Electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in recent years.
However, they have also faced their fair share of skepticism and negative publicity.
Rommel Juan, chairman of the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP), pointed out that one of the most persistent myths about EVs is the misconception that they simply shift the environmental burden from the tailpipe to the power plant. Critics argue that since most electricity is generated from fossil fuels, EVs are not a genuinely green choice.
Juan clarified that the Renewable Energy Law mandates that up to 25% of all electricity produced must come from renewable sources such as solar, geothermal, wind, biomass, and more. This ensures that a significant portion of the energy powering EVs in the country is clean and sustainable.
Addressing concerns about EVs being rendered inoperable during floods, especially in flood-prone areas like Manila, Juan highlighted the Ingress Protection (IP) ratings of EV motors. He noted that the average IP rating for an EV motor is IP67, with IP68 being the highest achievable rating.
An IP67-rated component can endure submersion in up to a meter of water for 30 minutes without sustaining damage. This level of water resistance ensures that flooding is not a significant threat to EVs, making them a practical choice in regions with heavy rainfall.
Juan also emphasized that there is no evidence or study suggesting that EVs catch fire more frequently than conventional ICE vehicles. He further mentioned that electric vehicles can be conveniently charged using the same type of outlet as electric fans.
“And in fact, there are more and more charging stations being set up by various EVAP members every day. The increasing availability of charging infrastructure across the Philippines ensures that EV owners have convenient access to charging facilities,” he said.
