BYD (Build Your Dreams), a major player in electric and hybrid vehicles, rolled into Cebu City, Philippines, for its very first Tech Tour outside of Manila. From April 25th to 27th, 2025, at SM Seaside City Cebu, they showed off their best electric vehicles (EVs) and offered some sweet deals to folks looking to make the switch to electric.
BYD’s Big Plans for the Philippines
Jill S. Peña, the Brand Marketing Director of BYD Cars Philippines, says this Tech Tour is just the beginning! BYD wants to take its award-winning tech all over the country so more Filipinos can experience it. Think of it as a traveling showcase of what electric vehicles can do.
“This month is huge for us because we’re bringing the BYD eMAX 7 to the Philippines,” Peña explained. “It’s a fully electric MPV – that’s Multi-Purpose Vehicle – and it’s perfect for families. It’s all about comfort, cool new features, and, of course, being good to the planet, all in one vehicle.”
The Tech Tour is designed to be hands-on. You can actually see the cars up close, poke around, ask questions, and even take a test drive. BYD’s product experts will be there to walk you through all the cool stuff and answer any questions you have. It’s like a science fair, but with cars that you can actually buy.
It’s been a year since BYD made a splash in Cebu, and they’re not slowing down. They’re on a mission to help Cebu become an electric vehicle haven. BYD is working hard to make electric vehicles more affordable and practical for everyday drivers. By doing this, they’re helping Cebu become a cleaner and greener city. And it’s paying off – BYD is now one of the top EV providers on the island.
Kenneth Huan, Senior Vice President of BYD Cebu, proudly announced, “We’re growing fast! As of this month, we’re number five in terms of market share in Cebu. That’s a big win for us.”
Leading the Charge Towards Electric Mobility
BYD isn’t just about selling cars; they’re committed to a whole new approach to energy. They want to create a clean-energy world where we don’t have to rely so much on fossil fuels. You can read more about BYD’s vision on their official website.
Edward Onglatco, BYD Cebu President and CEO, is thrilled with how Cebuanos have embraced electric vehicles. He’s excited to keep pushing for electric mobility in the region.
“We’re not just selling cars; we’re building a movement,” Onglatco said. “It’s a shift to cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable ways of getting around.”
And they’re not stopping there! Onglatco announced that they’re opening new dealerships soon: BYD Central, BYD Cebu South in Minglanilla, and BYD Cebu Toledo.
Charging Up Cebu: A Collaborative Effort
As more and more Cebuanos get interested in EVs, BYD Cars Philippines and ACMobility are joining forces to build a big network of EV charging stations across Cebu. This will make it easier for EV owners to keep their cars charged and ready to go, supporting a greener transportation system.
Josh Altarejos, ACMobility Infrastructure Site Development Director, shared that there are already 12 EV charging stations in Cebu. And they’re planning to add a bunch more in the coming months.
“By the end of the year, we’ll have over 35 locations in the whole Visayas region,” Altarejos said. “That will make it much easier and more convenient to charge your EV, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power.”
Altarejos also mentioned their ambitious goal of creating a fully connected charging network that stretches from Pagudpud in the north to Pagadian in the south. This would allow EV drivers to travel long distances without any range anxiety. This requires significant investment. According to a 2023 report by the International Energy Agency, achieving global net-zero emissions by 2050 will require a considerable increase in the deployment of charging infrastructure.
With ACMobility’s help, BYD is making charging easier by partnering with popular spots around the island. You can now charge your EV at places like Prince Store, City Time Square, Club Filipino Danao Golf Club, and Axis Vibo Place.
BYD’s Innovative Technologies Under the Hood
BYD designs and develops its core technologies in-house. This gives them the freedom to keep innovating and improving their vehicles without relying on other companies.
The Blade Battery: A Revolution in Safety
One of BYD’s biggest innovations is the Blade Battery. Safety is the top priority with this battery. It uses lithium iron phosphate, which is known for its excellent thermal stability. This means it’s less likely to overheat or catch fire, making it one of the safest EV batteries out there. In fact, it’s been put through some pretty extreme tests, like being punctured with nails, without exploding or catching fire. You can find more information about battery safety tests and standards on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.
The Blade Battery isn’t just safe; it’s also long-lasting. It’s designed to handle thousands of charge cycles, so you don’t have to worry about it wearing out quickly. It also has a high energy density, which means it can store a lot of power in a relatively small space.
e-Platform 3.0: The Brains Behind the Operation
Another key technology is BYD’s e-Platform 3.0. This is a platform that’s built specifically for electric vehicles. It brings together efficiency, intelligence, safety, and design into one powerful package.
The e-Platform 3.0 helps to improve energy use, simplify the vehicle’s systems, and create a smoother and more enjoyable driving experience. It also allows for faster charging times and longer driving ranges. Think of it as the brains and central nervous system of the car.
Consider these numbers: BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 enables a drag coefficient as low as 0.21, contributing to a vehicle’s overall range and efficiency. This platform also allows for an 800V high-voltage charging system, enabling a rapid recharge where compatible. These advancements translate to a better driving experience, reduced energy consumption, and increased convenience for EV owners.
In his closing speech, Kenneth Huan, BYD Cebu Senior Vice President, encouraged anyone who’s still unsure about BYD EVs to talk to a consultant, take a test drive, and see for themselves how BYD’s technology can fit into their lifestyle.
BYD: A Legacy of Innovation
BYD (Build Your Dreams) has been around for almost 30 years, using technology to make the world a better place. It started as a battery company in 1995 and then expanded into cars in 2003. Since then, BYD has been a leader in innovation.
They created the world’s first plug-in hybrid car in 2008, the ultra-safe Blade Battery in 2020, and in 2022, they made the bold move to focus entirely on electric vehicles. This transition underscores BYD’s commitment to sustainable transportation.
In Cebu, BYD Cebu is leading the way toward cleaner transportation by offering EVs that are practical, reliable, and environmentally friendly. With more charging stations, strong partnerships, and growing support from the community, BYD Cebu is working to make electric driving easier and more accessible for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions about BYD EVs
Here are some common questions people have about BYD EVs:
What is the typical range of a BYD electric vehicle?
The range varies depending on the model, but BYD EVs generally offer a range of 200 to 400 miles on a single charge. For example, the BYD Tang boasts a range of around 250 miles, while the BYD Han EV is known for its extended range capabilities. Real-world range will vary based on factors like driving style, weather conditions, and terrain. The U.S. Department of Energy’s FuelEconomy.gov website offers resources for estimating EV driving range.
How long does it take to charge a BYD electric vehicle?
Charging time depends on the charging method and the vehicle’s battery capacity. Using a Level 1 charger (standard household outlet) can take 12-24 hours for a full charge. Level 2 chargers (240V) can charge the vehicle in 4-8 hours. DC fast chargers can provide a significant charge (e.g., 80%) in as little as 30 minutes to an hour. Having a home charging setup greatly enhances the ownership experience.
Are BYD electric vehicles reliable?
BYD is known for its durable batteries and reliable technology. The Blade Battery, in particular, is designed for safety and longevity. Like any vehicle, regular maintenance is important to ensure optimal performance. Many owners report positive experiences with BYD vehicles, citing their reliability and low running costs.
How much do BYD electric vehicles cost?
The price of a BYD electric vehicle varies depending on the model and trim level. Generally, they are competitively priced compared to other EVs in their class. Government incentives and rebates can also help to lower the overall cost. Contact your local BYD dealership for specific pricing information and available incentives.
Where can I find BYD charging stations in Cebu?
BYD is partnering with ACMobility to establish a network of charging stations across Cebu. You can find charging stations at Prince Store, City Time Square, Club Filipino Danao Golf Club, and Axis Vibo Place, with more locations planned for the future. Mobile apps like PlugShare and ChargePoint can help you locate public charging stations in your area.
What are the benefits of owning a BYD electric vehicle?
The benefits are numerous! You’ll enjoy zero tailpipe emissions, lower running costs (due to cheaper electricity compared to gasoline), a quiet and smooth driving experience, and access to government incentives. Plus, you’ll be contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
What is BYD’s warranty on its electric vehicles?
BYD typically offers a comprehensive warranty on its electric vehicles, including coverage for the battery pack and other key components. The specific terms and duration of the warranty may vary, so it’s essential to check with your local BYD dealership for details. A strong warranty provides peace of mind and demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in its product.
Does BYD offer financing options for its electric vehicles?
Yes, BYD often partners with financial institutions to offer financing options for its electric vehicles. These options may include loans and leases, making it easier for customers to afford an EV. Contact your local BYD dealership to learn more about available financing plans.
References
International Energy Agency (IEA). (2023). Global EV Outlook 2023.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
U.S. Department of Energy. FuelEconomy.gov.
Are You Ready to Join the Electric Revolution in Cebu?
BYD isn’t just selling cars; they’re offering a vision for the future – a future where transportation is cleaner, more sustainable, and more enjoyable. If you’re in Cebu and curious about making the switch to electric, now is the perfect time to check out BYD. Visit one of their dealerships, talk to their knowledgeable team, and take a test drive. Experience the Blade Battery, explore the e-Platform 3.0, and feel the difference of driving an EV. Don’t just take our word for it; see for yourself how BYD is helping to build a better future, one electric vehicle at a time! The future of mobility is electric, and BYD is leading the charge in Cebu. See you at the dealership!
