Latest news with #EVecosystem
Zawya
15-07-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
VinFast Advances Ecosystem Strategy in Philippines' EV Catch-Up
MANILA, PHILIPPINES - Media OutReach Newswire - 14 July 2025 - With nearly 19,000 electric vehicles sold in 2024, the Philippines is looking to catch up in Southeast Asia's EV race as ecosystem players like VinFast work to overcome hurdles around charging access, maintenance, and affordability. Emerging Asia's electric vehicle market reached nearly 400,000 sales in 2024[1], but the gains were spread unevenly across the region. In Southeast Asia, Vietnam led the way with nearly 90,000 electric cars sold, accounting for 17.6 percent of the country's car market.[2] Thailand followed closely with just over 70,000 new EVs, accounting for 13 percent of all car sales[3]. Indonesia recorded 49,200 EVs, representing over 7 percent of national sales.[4] The Philippines lags behind. Fewer than 19,000 electrified vehicles were sold in 2024, making up only around 4 percent of new car purchases.[5] Can the Philippines draft a catch-up strategy in Southeast Asia's EV sprint? The short answer is yes, but it needs to work closely with all stakeholders, especially OEMs like VinFast, which is bringing a comprehensive ecosystem designed to address the major concerns of potential EV buyers. The ASEAN EV Race Regional competitors are deploying aggressive strategies to dominate the electric transition. Thailand offers big multi-year tax holidays and targets 30 percent domestic EV production by 2030. Indonesia leverages its world-leading nickel reserves to attract battery manufacturers. Vietnam is using homegrown VinFast as a launchpad into export markets. Manila isn't standing still either, as the 2022 Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) lays out a roadmap for EV adoption that includes reduced import tariffs, EV-only parking slots, and a requirement for 5 percent of large fleets to be electric. However, the policy offers few supply-side incentives, and so while EV sales have picked up in recent years, they still account for only a single-digit share of total car sales. The country's oil dependency adds pressure. MUFG estimates that a 10-dollar increase per barrel in crude oil would widen the Philippines' current-account deficit from roughly 3.5 percent to over 4.5 percent of GDP.[6] That is a full percentage-point increase, largely driven by fuel imports. The Philippines pledged to trim greenhouse-gas emissions by up to 75% by 2030 under the Paris Agreement. And EV is a big part of this[7]. But electrifying transportation means consumers need more affordable, serviceable zero-emission options. More than that, the government needs partners who can support the full ecosystem, including infrastructure, services, and education, not just the vehicles themselves. VinFast's Whole-of-Ecosystem Approach VinFast vehicles are already on Philippine roads. In July 2024, the company opened its first three showrooms. Almost a year later, the OEM became a full member of CAMPI, giving it a seat at the local policy table alongside other traditional automotive brands. What's notable about VinFast's approach is its effort to build a comprehensive "For a Green Future" ecosystem. The company has partnered with local dealers to open more than 60 new showrooms by the end of the year. Collaborations with tire and maintenance chains like Goodyear and Tire King will extend after-sales service coverage, aiming for over 100 authorized service workshops across the Philippines by 2025. This tackles the "who fixes my EV, and where?" anxiety head-on. VinFast has also launched a free charging program alongside the debut of its VF 6 subcompact model. This initiative allows customers to charge for free at its dedicated network until May 1, 2027. The network, operated by V-GREEN, aims to roll out 15,000 charging ports across the country in 2025. VinFast's strategy targets three major EV adoption barriers all at once. It eases range anxiety through accessible charging, tackles maintenance fears with a broad service network, and addresses upfront cost concerns through policies such as a buyback program that offers up to 90 percent of the vehicle's original value. Even without building a local factory, VinFast's ecosystem creates jobs in sales, repairs, software, and charging infrastructure. This supports Manila's EVIDA goals, helps reduce urban pollution, and contributes to lowering oil dependence. Another hidden challenge to EV adoption and one VinFast aims to solve is lack of familiarity, which, according to some studies, is actually the largest barrier. One American study found that once drivers experience EVs firsthand, concerns about range, costs, and charging drop significantly[8]. To help bridge that gap, VinFast is working with various B2B partners and mobility service providers that are helping make electric vehicles more visible and accessible in everyday life, including Green GSM, the Philippines' first all-electric taxi service, which recently launched on June 10, 2025. By interacting with Green GSM drivers, all of whom operate VinFast vehicles, everyday commuters are given a practical and low-barrier introduction to EVs. These conversations can help the public understand how EVs work, what they feel like to drive one, and why they might be worth considering. Eventually, that exposure could encourage more people to make the switch. In Southeast Asia's e-mobility race, the Philippines may lack a domestic factory. Still, VinFast's ecosystem-focused approach gives the country a real opportunity to catch up and perhaps even pull ahead. [1] [2] [3] Same as #1 [4] Same as #1 [5] [6] [7] [8] Hashtag: #VinFast The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. VinFast
Malay Mail
15-07-2025
- Automotive
- Malay Mail
VinFast Advances Ecosystem Strategy in Philippines' EV Catch-Up
VinFast EV manufacturing complex in Hai Phong, Vietnam MANILA, PHILIPPINES - Media OutReach Newswire - 14 July 2025 - With nearly 19,000 electric vehicles sold in 2024, the Philippines is looking to catch up in Southeast Asia's EV race as ecosystem players like VinFast work to overcome hurdles around charging access, maintenance, and Asia's electric vehicle market reached nearly 400,000 sales in 2024[1], but the gains were spread unevenly across the Southeast Asia, Vietnam led the way with nearly 90,000 electric cars sold, accounting for 17.6 percent of the country's car market.[2] Thailand followed closely with just over 70,000 new EVs, accounting for 13 percent of all car sales[3]. Indonesia recorded 49,200 EVs, representing over 7 percent of national sales.[4]The Philippines lags behind. Fewer than 19,000 electrified vehicles were sold in 2024, making up only around 4 percent of new car purchases.[5]Can the Philippines draft a catch-up strategy in Southeast Asia's EV sprint? The short answer is yes, but it needs to work closely with all stakeholders, especially OEMs like VinFast, which is bringing a comprehensive ecosystem designed to address the major concerns of potential EV competitors are deploying aggressive strategies to dominate the electric transition. Thailand offers big multi-year tax holidays and targets 30 percent domestic EV production by 2030. Indonesia leverages its world-leading nickel reserves to attract battery manufacturers. Vietnam is using homegrown VinFast as a launchpad into export isn't standing still either, as the 2022 Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) lays out a roadmap for EV adoption that includes reduced import tariffs, EV-only parking slots, and a requirement for 5 percent of large fleets to be electric. However, the policy offers few supply-side incentives, and so while EV sales have picked up in recent years, they still account for only a single-digit share of total car country's oil dependency adds pressure. MUFG estimates that a 10-dollar increase per barrel in crude oil would widen the Philippines' current-account deficit from roughly 3.5 percent to over 4.5 percent of GDP.[6] That is a full percentage-point increase, largely driven by fuel Philippines pledged to trim greenhouse-gas emissions by up to 75% by 2030 under the Paris Agreement. And EV is a big part of this[7]. But electrifying transportation means consumers need more affordable, serviceable zero-emission options. More than that, the government needs partners who can support the full ecosystem, including infrastructure, services, and education, not just the vehicles vehicles are already on Philippine roads. In July 2024, the company opened its first three showrooms. Almost a year later, the OEM became a full member of CAMPI, giving it a seat at the local policy table alongside other traditional automotive notable about VinFast's approach is its effort to build a comprehensive "For a Green Future" ecosystem. The company has partnered with local dealers to open more than 60 new showrooms by the end of the year. Collaborations with tire and maintenance chains like Goodyear and Tire King will extend after-sales service coverage, aiming for over 100 authorized service workshops across the Philippines by 2025. This tackles the "who fixes my EV, and where?" anxiety has also launched a free charging program alongside the debut of its VF 6 subcompact model. This initiative allows customers to charge for free at its dedicated network until May 1, 2027. The network, operated by V-GREEN, aims to roll out 15,000 charging ports across the country in strategy targets three major EV adoption barriers all at once. It eases range anxiety through accessible charging, tackles maintenance fears with a broad service network, and addresses upfront cost concerns through policies such as a buyback program that offers up to 90 percent of the vehicle's original without building a local factory, VinFast's ecosystem creates jobs in sales, repairs, software, and charging infrastructure. This supports Manila's EVIDA goals, helps reduce urban pollution, and contributes to lowering oil hidden challenge to EV adoption and one VinFast aims to solve is lack of familiarity, which, according to some studies, is actually the largest barrier. One American study found that once drivers experience EVs firsthand, concerns about range, costs, and charging drop significantly[8].To help bridge that gap, VinFast is working with various B2B partners and mobility service providers that are helping make electric vehicles more visible and accessible in everyday life, including Green GSM, the Philippines' first all-electric taxi service, which recently launched on June 10, interacting with Green GSM drivers, all of whom operate VinFast vehicles, everyday commuters are given a practical and low-barrier introduction to EVs. These conversations can help the public understand how EVs work, what they feel like to drive one, and why they might be worth considering. Eventually, that exposure could encourage more people to make the Southeast Asia's e-mobility race, the Philippines may lack a domestic factory. Still, VinFast's ecosystem-focused approach gives the country a real opportunity to catch up and perhaps even pull #VinFast The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Arab News
28-06-2025
- Automotive
- Arab News
Battery cost drops and govt drive help Kingdom achieve EV goals
RIYADH: A rapid decline in battery prices and critical mineral costs, along with effective government initiatives, are expected to help Saudi Arabia achieve its goal of electrifying 30 percent of vehicles in Riyadh by 2030, according to experts. Speaking to Arab News, Joseph Salem, partner and travel, transportation and hospitality practice lead at Arthur D. Little, Middle East, said that the Kingdom needs to deploy at least 1.5 million electric vehicles by 2030 to meet this stipulated target. Known for its oil wealth, Saudi Arabia has been leading the region's energy transition and is now focused on developing a comprehensive EV ecosystem. As a part of this strategy, the nation has invested in US-based EV manufacturer Lucid through the Kingdom's sovereign wealth fund, as well as creating its homegrown electric vehicle brand Ceer, which is expected to roll out vehicles by 2026. 'Battery cost reduction serves as a key enabler for Saudi Arabia to achieve its EV adoption targets and build a competitive regional automotive industry, reinforced by the broader global trend of declining battery prices. It will also be driven by both the government's push and pull from the market,' said Salem. He added: 'Saudi Arabia's $9 billion investment across the EV value chain, with Ceer launching vehicles by 2026 and a partnership with Lucid Motors to produce 155,000 EVs per year, underscores its commitment to becoming a regional EV manufacturing hub, reducing production costs and enhancing affordable EV availability.' The Kingdom is also expanding its EV infrastructure, aiming to have 5,000 fast chargers nationwide by 2030, making adoption more practical for consumers. The crucial cost factor In March, a report released by the International Energy Agency said that the global battery market is advancing rapidly as demand rises sharply and prices continue to decline. The IEA further stated that electric car sales increased by 25 percent year on year in 2024 to reach 17 million, while the average price of a battery pack for an electric car dropped below $100 per kilowatt-hour, a key threshold for competing on cost with conventional models. 'The ongoing reduction in EV battery costs is already making certain electric vehicle segments cost-competitive with internal combustion engines,' said Christopher Decker, partner, energy and natural resources at Oliver Wyman – India, Middle East and Africa. He added: 'This growing affordability will help lay the foundation for EV infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, which is essential for scaling up and ultimately decarbonizing the broader light-vehicle fleet.' Battery cost reduction serves as a key enabler for Saudi Arabia to achieve its EV adoption targets. Joseph Salem, partner and travel, transportation and hospitality practice lead at Arthur D. Little, Middle East Paul Sullivan, an energy and environment expert at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland, US, said that the Kingdom could advance its technical capabilities to make EVs more popular and affordable. 'Saudi Arabia lives in its own auto market but also the world auto market. It must adjust to both. But it has the benefit of large cash flows and stocks to invest in new technologies and industries,' said Sullivan. Citing a Goldman Sachs study, Arthur D. Little's Salem said that battery costs fell by over 85 percent in lithium pricing from 2022 to 2024, reducing global EV costs and helping automakers close the price gap with ICE vehicles. Hel added that battery pack prices are expected to drop nearly 50 percent by 2026, making EVs' total cost of ownership comparable to ICE vehicles in select major markets, including Saudi Arabia. 'With battery prices projected to reach $80 per kWh by 2026, EVs are becoming more affordable, making them increasingly attractive to Saudi consumers, where price is a key factor for a sizeable section of the customer base,' added Salem. Advancing innovation Experts who spoke to Arab News also praised recent innovations in Saudi Arabia, including a new lithium extraction technique developed by King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. In January, researchers at KAUST presented their innovative technology in a study published in the Journal of Science, which describes a method for direct lithium extraction from brine in oilfields and seawater. Lithium, a critical mineral for batteries, is present in these sources at very low concentrations, making it difficult to extract in useful quantities. However, this new technology makes this otherwise inaccessible element extractable on an industrial scale. The technology was demonstrated on a pilot test 100,000 times larger than that of a university laboratory, and its cost was competitive relative to standard lithium mining extraction techniques. 'KAUST's new lithium-extraction technique could reduce costs for Saudi as well as other battery makers. This last bit will happen when this lithium extracting technology spreads outside of Saudi Arabia or other similar methods are used across the world,' said Johns Hopkins University's Sullivan. He added: 'The lithium and battery industries are looking for ways to cut costs. This will drive more invention and research. Things can move quickly. A company and a country cannot rest on its victories in a quickly changing and uncertain world. This invention must be exploited quickly before it becomes obsolete by other inventions.' Decker said that KAUST's development of the new lithium extraction technique is a promising step toward integrating Saudi Arabia's mining sector into the global lithium value chain. Salem praised KAUST's innovative efforts, noting that the breakthrough could extract up to 10,000 times more lithium from oilfield brine and seawater. This would reduce reliance on global markets and help secure a stable, cost-effective supply for domestic battery production and EV manufacturing. The Arthur D. Little official further added that this new technology could open up potential lithium export opportunities and position the Kingdom as a global hub for critical battery materials, driving economic diversification. 'This innovation aligns with Saudi Arabia's industrial strategy to localize the entire battery value chain — from critical minerals to EVs — and to build a new high-tech export sector,' said Salem. Geographical shifts According to the IEA, China produces over three-quarters of all batteries sold globally. The energy think tank added that batteries in China were reported to be priced lower than in Europe and North America by over 30 percent and 20 percent, respectively. Declining battery prices in recent years are a major reason why many EVs in China are now cheaper than their conventional counterparts. However, Sullivan said that this Chinese dominance in the battery industry will not last forever, as other regions are also embracing methods to effectively manufacture batteries in a cost-effective manner. 'China may dominate for some time, but it will likely not have such a large share of the overall battery market forever. The US and the EU are putting significant efforts into developing their battery industries. For example, India may be a battery giant in the future. Japan and South Korea also want to build greater battery industries and markets,' said Sullivan. He added: 'Every industry must deal with and respond to threats of substitution, supplier power, buyer power, and threats of new entry. Saudi Arabia could play these five forces for success in the future. Economics and business do not stand still for long.' Salem said that the Kingdom's lithium extraction technology, if combined with the right ecosystem, could offer a chance to reduce reliance on China for selected components and materials, strengthening local supply chains. 'China's policy shift is a wake-up call — it exposes global vulnerabilities but also creates a window for Saudi Arabia to assert strategic autonomy and emerge as a regional battery and EV manufacturing hub,' said Salem. In early 2025, China's Ministry of Commerce proposed new export restrictions targeting critical battery technologies, including lithium extraction and cathode material production. These measures would require government approval for technology exports and thus have intensified global concern over dependence risks. Commenting on China's dominance in the battery market, Decker noted that heavy geographic concentration in any critical supply chain raises concerns about resilience and long-term sustainability. 'Localization and diversification are becoming strategic priorities for many countries looking to build more independent and secure clean energy ecosystems. China will continue to play a central role in the battery industry, given its dominance in both processing capacity and control over key raw materials,' said Decker. He added: 'Collaboration, innovation, and transparent supply chain practices will be crucial to ensure global progress in the energy transition.'
