Nissan’s latest study shows how eager Filipinos are to own an EV

A study conducted by Frost and Sullivan illustrates the growing interest for electric vehicles in the ASEAN region.  The discussion happened during the Nissan FUTURES webinar through going by its theme of ‘Electrifying 250 million cars. An impossible dream?’. 

This virtual event commenced through the presence of Nissan executives, industry leaders, government officials, and the media. The study was titled ‘The Future of Electrified Vehicles in Southeast Asia’, and as based on the gathered data, 37% of the respondents state they would certainly consider an electrified vehicle as their next car purchase within the next three years. In fact, the Philippines stands alongside Indonesia and Thailand with eager consideration in owning an EV.

Nearly two-thirds or 64% of respondents across Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Singapore affirm that they are more willing to consider an electrified vehicle than they were five years ago. On the other hand, 66% of consumers across the region believe they will adopt electrified mobility as part of their lives in the near future. 

Environmental factors also play a significant role in this major transition. Apart from giving such consideration for air and noise pollution, 81% of consumers from the Philippines and Thailand agreed that their top motivation in owning an electrified vehicle would be influenced by different power sources. Notably, a Nissan Electric vehicle can serve as a powerhouse for three to five days, which is indeed a good alternative during unexpected blackouts at home. 

While this vision may appear to be bright, there are some barriers that hinder other buyers from engaging in this transition. One of those constraints include a driver’s fear in running out of charge before reaching the station. This happens to be one of the most setbacks among vehicle consumers who are seeking for the EV experience. Though, it worth noting that this has been addressed and improved compared to the recent years, plus, Nissan does have that winning formula which makes its electric vehicles quite desirable. 

Perhaps, charging stations within Metro Manila shall grow in numbers, granted EV owners get the necessary support from the Government or with the help of an electric company. Lastly, 2018 findings also suggest that tax benefits also play a major role in one's decision to transition to an electrified vehicle.

The Nissan executives agreed that nothing is impossible, however, in order to achieve their goal of ‘Electrifying 250 million cars’, then collective efforts should not only come from them, but also from other significant players.