More than just advocating for electric vehicles (EVs), charging stations, batteries, and manufacturing plants, the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) is taking bold steps to redefine how Filipinos experience electric mobility — by bringing the thrill of racing into the picture.
This year, EVAP is laying the groundwork for an all-EV racing series, aiming to launch the first local electric motorsports competition by the end of 2025. The initiative isn’t just about speed — it’s about sparking enthusiasm, showcasing the performance of EVs, and nurturing a new generation of talent and innovation in clean, green motorsports.
“Electric motors deliver almost instantaneous torque, giving them a unique performance advantage,” said EVAP President Edmund Araga. “We want Filipinos to feel that EVs aren’t just practical — they’re exciting.”
To support this goal, EVAP plans to conduct driving workshops focused on competition-level EV handling, tailored for both aspiring racers and enthusiasts. These workshops will also serve as a talent pool for future drivers, engineers, and pit crews — setting the stage for even bigger ambitions: bringing the prestigious ABB FIA Formula E World Championship to the Philippines.
Driving ambition forward
Hosting a Formula E race — the world’s premier electric car racing series — is a long-term vision that aligns with EVAP’s advocacy for cleaner transport and increased EV adoption. Beyond motorsports, such an event would also turbocharge tourism, generate international attention, and highlight the country as a serious player in the global EV space.
This shift into electric racing complements EVAP’s broader mission to electrify Philippine roads, an effort it began back in 2009. Since then, EVAP has been a key driver in lobbying for landmark policies such as the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), the Comprehensive Roadmap for the Electric Vehicle Industry (CREVI), and various executive orders incentivizing EV adoption and manufacturing.
From policy to performance
EVAP’s momentum is backed by tangible progress: over 922 EV charging stations now dot the country, supported by 147 accredited providers. The result is more than 10,000 jobs and nearly P2 billion in new investments. Add to that another P1 billion invested in EV manufacturing and battery material processing facilities — including those focused on nickel, a critical EV component.
The association’s flagship event, the Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS), continues to be the country’s biggest stage for EV innovations. The upcoming 13th PEVS, set for October 23 to 25 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, promises to be a milestone event, with EVAP expected to unveil the next phase of its racing plans — and perhaps even a glimpse into its Formula E aspirations.
Racing ahead
EVAP’s journey has evolved from early policy advocacy and vehicle showcases to becoming a hub for EV innovation, infrastructure, and now — performance. With 88 active member-companies and a growing academe chapter involving seven universities, EVAP’s vision is not only to electrify transport but to energize a generation.
Because for EVAP, electric vehicles aren’t just about sustainability — they’re about possibility, performance, and passion.
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