Sales of xEVs zoom despite drop in car demand

Electrified vehicle (xEV) sales in the Philippines bucked the overall automotive downturn, rising 159% year-on-year to 17,655 units in the first four months of 2026, according to data from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI) and Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA). Total vehicle sales fell 12% to 132,867 units, with passenger car sales declining 17% to 25,746 units and commercial vehicle sales dropping 11% to 107,121 units over the same period. Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) drove the xEV surge, with sales climbing 115% to 12,368 units, while battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in HEVs saw explosive growth of 177% (2,708 units) and 2,532% (2,579 units), respectively. Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. remained the market leader with a 49.8% share, followed by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (18.3%) and Suzuki Philippines Inc. (4.7%). CAMPI president Jose Maria Atienza attributed the shift to elevated fuel prices linked to the Middle East conflict, noting consumers now prioritize energy-efficient vehicles. ‘Customers are carefully considering purchases due to the oil crisis,’ he said, adding that demand for xEVs and fuel-efficient internal combustion engines has risen as practical choices. The trend reflects broader consumer behavior amid economic uncertainty, with xEVs offering long-term cost savings despite higher upfront costs. CAMPI will showcase these vehicles at the Philippine International Motor Show from June 4 to 7, aiming to further boost awareness and adoption.