Victory Liner unveiled two new fully electric provincial commuter buses on 27th November, marking a significant milestone for both the company and the Philippines.

During the launch, Victory Liner President and General Manager, Marivic H. Del Pilar, explained that the decision to adopt electric vehicles (EVs) was driven by the global shift towards sustainable transportation and the company's vision of a greener future.

The e-buses, manufactured by the Chinese company Higer, were purchased at a special price of PHP 5 million (US$ 85,400) per unit, with an additional PHP 500,000 for the charger. These buses are powered by electric motors and are direct drive, meaning they emit no carbon dioxide.

Each unit is expected to reduce at least 100 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually. The buses are also equipped with a regenerative braking system, allowing the battery to recharge every time the bus slows down, such as in traffic.

Maiden route

The e-buses are scheduled to begin operations on the Cubao, Quezon City to San Fernando, Pampanga route in the first week of December. Each bus can complete two round trips before requiring a recharge.

Del Pilar explained that the short-distance trial run was necessary due to the limited availability of charging stations along other routes. "The Philippines is not yet prepared for mass charging. NLEX petrol stations, for instance, lack the facilities for bus charging. Therefore, we have set up end-to-end charging stations in Cubao and San Fernando as an initial solution," she said.

Despite the significant investment, the fare for the route will remain at PHP 141, with the potential for lower fares in the future. "The manufacturer claims lower maintenance costs, as there is no need for oil changes or other diesel engine-related expenses. However, we will need to monitor the increase in our electricity bills to assess how these savings balance out," Del Pilar further added.

Government support

Currently, private players benefit from a zero-tariff policy on EVs, reducing importation costs. However, the Department of Transportation (DOTR) is exploring additional government incentives to encourage other transport operators to follow Victory Liner's example.

"We are engaging with various companies to address the need for charging stations nationwide," said DOTR Undersecretary Andy Ortega.

He further stated, "While foreign manufacturers are supporting us now, the government's long-term goal is to foster local manufacturing, which will reduce costs, create jobs, and strengthen the industry."

Victory Liner aims to expand its e-bus fleet and introduce longer-range trips, providing more Filipinos with the opportunity to experience comfortable and eco-friendly travel.