DOE Expands EV Classifications to Strengthen PH’s Shift to Cleaner Mobility

News | National Posted on 2025-09-10 01:30:14

MANILA – The Department of Energy (DOE) has revised its guidelines on electric vehicles (EVs), expanding the classifications from four to six under Department Circular (DC) No. DC2025-09-0015, published Tuesday on its website.

The updated categories now include:

• Battery EVs (BEVs): Vehicles powered by traction batteries, including pure electric vehicles (PEVs)

• Hybrid EVs (HEVs): Powered by both rechargeable energy storage systems (RESS) and fueled engines, with tailpipe emissions

• Light EVs (LEVs): Micromobility units such as e-scooters and e-bikes weighing less than 50 kg

• Plug-in Hybrid EVs (PHEVs): Hybrids with RESS that can be externally charged and have tailpipe emissions

• Range Extender EVs (REEVs): EVs driven solely by an electric motor, with a fueled source dedicated to charging the RESS

• Fuel Cell EVs (FCEVs): Zero tailpipe emission vehicles using fuel cells to generate power

Previously, EVs were only grouped into BEVs, HEVs, LEVs, and PHEVs.

The DOE said the amendments were made following nationwide public consultations in July 2025. Alongside the new classifications, the Circular also introduces clearer definitions of terms, streamlined documentary requirements, and updates on EV recognition applications.

It further stipulates that EV models reported by manufacturers, assemblers, importers, and rebuilders (MARS) as discontinued or no longer marketed in the Philippines will be delisted from the official Recognized EV List.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin described the changes as a “critical step toward building a more organized, accessible, and future-ready EV market in the Philippines.”

“By harmonizing our EV recognition guidelines, we are reducing administrative burdens, increasing transparency, and accelerating EV adoption nationwide,” Garin said.

NPO News Team I PNA-PR

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