Ayala Corporation Partners with BYD to Accelerate EV Adoption in the Philippines

Ayala Corporation, one of the largest conglomerates in the Philippines, has partnered with BYD, a leading global manufacturer of hybrid and pure electric vehicles, to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the country.

Under the partnership, Ayala will become the official distributor of BYD passenger vehicles in the Philippines. Ayala will offer a range of BYD EVs, including the luxurious executive sedan BYD Han, the spacious 7-seater family SUV BYD Tang, and the compact hatchback BYD Dolphin. By the end of the year, Ayala plans to introduce the BYD ATTO 3, an acclaimed EV model recognized globally for its exceptional design, comfort, quality, practicality, and performance.

“These are compelling models that target different market segments and allow us to promote EV adoption across a wide range of customers,” AC Motors head Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala said, “With BYD’s leading presence globally in EVs and given its recent success in other Southeast Asian markets, we at AC Motors aspire to build the same level of respect and relevance for the brand in the Philippines.” 

Zobel mentioned plans for 12-13 dealerships in Manila this year. The conglomerate leverages its business units, including energy, property, malls, and banking, to complement EV infrastructure.

Antonio 'Toti' Zara III, holding roles at BYD Philippines and AC Motors, aims for 40 BYD outlets in 5 years. The BYD deal empowers AC Motors with a strong technology offering in its multi-brand distribution portfolio (Volkswagen, Kia, Honda, Isuzu, Maxus).

James Ng, the Managing Director of BYD Philippines and Singapore, looks forward to working with Ayala Corporation to promote the development of new technologies in mobility. "Together, we create a greener, more sustainable and brighter future, as we embark on this exciting journey.” 

The Ayala-BYD partnership marks a significant step for the Philippine EV market, showcasing the country's commitment to sustainability and giving a substantial push to the local EV industry. Ayala's emphasis on electric mobility, utilizing its diverse assets, underscores its ability to provide enduring value to EV customers.

BYD offers a wide range of affordable passenger and commercial vehicles suitable for large-scale deployment. As a fully integrated automotive manufacturer, BYD excels in vehicle design, assembly, battery tech, electric powertrains, and semiconductors. Beyond automotive, BYD has interests in rail transit, renewable energy, and battery storage.

“Our long-term vision is for AC Motors to become the leading platform for EVs and other new energy vehicles in the Philippines. This includes building up BYD to become a key brand in the Philippine market, with leading share among EV brands and meaningful presence in the automotive market as a whole,” he added.

The partnership is also a win for Filipino consumers. It will give them more choices when it comes to EVs, and it will help to make EVs more affordable and accessible. This is good news for the environment, as it will help to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Photos by: Roy Robles