Are Electric Vehicles the new mom mobile?
Life is expensive, and let’s be honest—there are way better things to spend money on than gas. We’re always looking for savings for those of us doing the budgeting (whether they be moms, dads, or whoever’s holding the wallet). But with Manila’s chaotic traffic and pricey parking, it feels like we’re burning through cash and time on the road.
Imagine cruising down EDSA with kids in tow and suddenly realizing you have yet to spend a peso on gas this month. Does this sound too good to be true? Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) might make this dream a reality.
The EV ( Pure Electric) and Hybrid Players
In the Philippines, we’ve seen models like the Nissan Leaf, Hyundai Kona EV, and Jaguar I-PACE making their presence felt. BMW just launched the iX1 and iX3, the EV version of their compact SUV. Lexus, on the other hand, has the RZ 450e. Toyota and Honda are the big players in hybrid technology, with the Toyota Prius and Honda CR-V Hybrid among the most popular choices.
The rise of Chinese cars—brands like BYD and Changan are making waves. It also helps that they are backed by big companies: BYD with Ayala Group and Changan with International Car Group Inchcape. They offer affordable and feature-packed EVs quickly gaining traction in the local market.
And don’t forget the Koreans—Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 and Kia’s EV6 are showing us that electrification is here to stay. Though Tesla, the global EV powerhouse, has yet to officially appear, it’s only a matter of time.
The Pros and Cons of Going Electric
So, should you make the switch? Let’s crunch some numbers.
According to my crude calculations, switching to an EV could save you as much as P116,550 per year, while opting for a hybrid could save around P87,750 annually. These savings, combined with the environmental benefits, make a compelling case for considering a switch.
Pros and Cons
ProsLower maintenance costs: Fewer moving parts mean less upkeep and no need for oil changes.
Smoother, quieter ride: EVs provide a peaceful driving experience, perfect for navigating Manila’s busy streets.
Eco-friendly: Zero emissions contribute to better air quality in the city.
Perks: Access to special lanes, potential future government incentives, free parking in malls, and charging stations near mall entrances.
ConsHigher upfront costs: EVs for branded cars.
Limited charging infrastructure: Most charging stations are in Manila only
Battery replacement costs: EV batteries can be expensive to replace over time.
Range anxiety: Concerns about running out of charge without a nearby station, particularly outside Metro Manila.
The Bottom-line
Before I declare EVs as the new mom mobile, let me define my criteria for a mom mobile: It must be stress-free driving—easy to maneuver, park, and packed with driving aids. My current car even knows when to turn on the wipers by itself! For many women drivers, fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness are key, which makes EVs a big plus. And let’s not forget space; it needs to comfortably fit kids, pets, groceries, and more. Also, it should be okay when I activate my voice-activated self drive function (Si Manong). So, it needs to be comfortable to ride in the back, easy enough to drive, no overwhelming bells and whistles.
An EV is a solid choice for me. Still, the additional stress of finding a charging station lurks in my mind. It may cause wrinkles and result in a trip to the dermatologist ( a take-my-money situation). Another consideration for me is the brand’s proven dependability and longevity. Right now, a hybrid looks like a mighty acceptable option, but the savings are significantly less.
So, what matters more to you?
