MANILA: Mercedes-Benz Philippines expressed its optimism with the gradually increasing demand for electric vehicles (EV) in the country.

During the launch of its latest offering — the EQE sport utility vehicle (SUV) — Zigwheels Philippines was able to chat with three-pointed-star marque’s Product and Training Assistant Vice President Benjamin Bautista.

“Right now I think it’s really growing,” Bautista noted as he talked about the current state of the Philippine EV market and the awareness Filipinos have of electric cars.

Bautista pointed out that 10-15 percent of Mercedes-Benz Philippines’ sales in 2023 were made up of EVs, showing the promising future of emissions-free driving and how Filipinos are more accepting of cars that run on electric power instead of the traditional diesel or gasoline fuel.

“Last year we were able to hit at least 10-15 percent... These were all electric vehicles,” he said.

With more and more car buyers now open to driving a more sustainable means of mobility, these numbers are expected to grow.

Currently, Mercedes-Benz Philippines’ EV lineup is made up of the EQA, EQB, EQE (and its aforementioned SUV variant), and the EQS.

When asked if Mercedes-Benz Philippines will bring more EVs in the market, Bautista said yes, but was tight-lipped about what other models the IC Star Automotive Incorporated-led brand will introduce in the near future.

He did mention that there is a possibility that the brand’s local wing will introduce the electric Mercedes-Benz G Wagon in the country, but was adamant that it will not be happening within the year.

Photos from Juan Paulo Papa and Hazel Nicole Carreon

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