Manila International Auto Show Marks 20 Years, Displays More Electrified Vehicles Than Ever Before

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Last Updated on: 12th April 2025, 10:37 am

The 2025 Manila International Auto Show opened its doors on April 10. It includes a larger presence than ever before of electrified vehicles as new and existing brands present their latest innovations and strategies for a more sustainable automotive future. CleanTechnica is covering the event, and below is a list of the notable players at the Philippines’ now longest running automotive show, with a track record of 20 years.

First on the list is AITO, a new entrant to the Philippine market under QSJ Motors Philippines. It introduced its flagship M9 SUV. This premium vehicle is notable for offering consumers a choice between a range-extended electric vehicle (REEV) configuration, providing longer driving distances without range anxiety, and a battery electric vehicle (BEV) variant for those prioritizing pure electric driving. Pre-orders for the AITO M9 were initiated at the show, signaling the brand’s intent to establish a strong presence in the burgeoning electrified segment.

BAIC showcased its commitment to electrification with the introduction of the B60e Beaumont rEV, marking the brand’s entry into the full-size electrified SUV category. This vehicle features a range-extended electric powertrain coupled with an intelligent all-wheel drive system, boasting a substantial total driving range. Alongside this debut, BAIC also presented the B30e Dune, a hybrid model already part of their lineup, further illustrating their multi-pronged approach to offering more fuel-efficient vehicles.

BYD, a prominent global player in the electric vehicle market, made significant announcements at MIAS 2025. The brand officially launched the eMAX 7, introducing the Philippines to its first fully electric multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), available in both six- and seven-seat configurations, catering to families and businesses alike. Furthermore, BYD showcased the Shark, a plug-in hybrid pickup truck, demonstrating the versatility of electrified powertrains extending into traditionally fuel-dependent vehicle segments.

Changan significantly expanded its electrified vehicle offerings under the Nevo sub-brand. The fully electric Lumin Battery EV was officially launched, entering the compact EV segment. Changan also introduced the Nevo Q05 Plug-In Hybrid EV, a compact SUV combining electric driving with the flexibility of a gasoline engine. A groundbreaking introduction was the Nevo Hunter K50 Range-Extended EV, touted as the world’s first range-extended electric pickup truck. Additionally, Changan provided an initial glimpse of the Nevo A05 Plug-In Hybrid EV, a plug-in hybrid compact sedan, hinting at future additions to their electrified lineup.

Chery is the pioneer in electric vehicles in the Philippines, having introduced the first commercially viable QQEV and M1 EV at the 2011 MIAS. It is previewing the Tiggo ReV C-DM. This 7-seat SUV features Chery’s advanced Dual Motor (C-DM) plug-in hybrid technology, promising a long combined driving range and highlighting the brand’s strategic shift towards more sustainable powertrains. The existing Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV was also present, reinforcing the company’s current electrified offerings. The anticipated fully electric Chery eQ7, previously showcased, was also a point of interest, suggesting its potential future launch in the Philippine market.

GAC Motor offered a glimpse into its electrification strategy by unveiling the M5 PHEV, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. This introduction indicates GAC’s intention to incorporate electrified options into its range, catering to a growing demand for more fuel-efficient and environmentally conscious vehicles.

Jaecoo, a newer brand in the Philippine market, previewed the J7 SHS PHEV. This model features Jaecoo’s Super Hybrid System, underscoring the brand’s focus on integrating advanced hybrid technology into its vehicles. The preview included opportunities for test drives, allowing attendees to experience the capabilities of their hybrid system firsthand.

Kia, under ACMobility, presented a strong portfolio of electrified vehicles. The fully electric Kia EV9, the brand’s flagship electric SUV, took center stage, showcasing its design and technology. Alongside the EV9, Kia also highlighted the Kia Carnival, now available with a hybrid powertrain, offering a more fuel-efficient option for the popular MPV. The enhanced Kia Sorento Turbo Hybrid was also showcased, further demonstrating Kia’s commitment to providing a diverse range of electrified choices across its model lineup.

Lynk & Co, another relatively new brand in the Philippines, debuted its first all-electric vehicle, the 02 EV. This compact electric crossover signifies the brand’s entry into the pure electric vehicle segment, appealing to consumers seeking stylish and sustainable urban mobility solutions. Lynk & Co also displayed the 08 EM-P, a plug-in hybrid SUV with a focus on long-range capabilities, hinting at future expansions of their electrified offerings.

MG Philippines made its foray into the hybrid market with the introduction of the MG ZS Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV). This marks a significant step for the brand, combining a traditional gasoline engine with an electric motor and battery to offer improved fuel efficiency and a more eco-conscious driving experience within their popular compact SUV model.

Amidst the turmoil in the U.S., Tesla made its presence at the show. The brand showcased its currently available models, the Model 3 and the Model Y, which were also offered for test drive. Tesla’s debut at MIAS 2025 signifies a potential shift in the local electric vehicle landscape, hinting at a more direct engagement with Filipino consumers in the future.

VinFast officially launched of the VF 6, a fully electric B-segment SUV available in Eco and Plus variants priced at P1.419 million ($24,751) and P1.610 million ($28,074). Sales inquiries for the cars are being accepted and processed and deliveries of the Eco variant will begin in May 2025. “We hope it will replicate its segment-leading success in Vietnam and receive the same enthusiastic response as it had in Europe,” Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia said in a press statement. The brand also showcased its broader lineup of electric vehicles, including models like the VF 3, VF 5, VF 7, and VF 9, reinforcing its ambition to be a key player in the country’s EV transition. It also announced the opening of 60 more dealerships in the country within 2025.

— Reporting and coverage by Deriq Bernard Tribdino.