Ride-hailing and delivery service Grab Philippines (Grab) is transitioning to the electric vehicle (e-vehicle), with a one-month pilot test of using e-vehicles for transport network vehicle service (TNVS).
In a statement, Grab said it partnered with e-vehicle manufacturer BYD to supply select areas in Metro Manila with its hatchback-type model Dolphin to determine the feasibility of an e-vehicle fleet.
“It will examine key operational and economic implications of using EVs as TNVS vehicles,” it said.
The e-vehicle pilot study will launch in Taguig’s Bonifacio Global City, Makati City, Pasay City, and Mandaluyong City to leverage the existing e-vehicle charging infrastructure in the areas.
“Through the analysis of collected data on total distance covered, battery efficiency, and their impact on the earning capacity and overall productivity of driver-partners, Grab and BYD aim to offer valuable insights to transport stakeholders,” Grab said.
The duo said the goal is to navigate a path toward greener mobility options in the ride-hailing industry while exploring cost-effective and profit-maximizing alternatives to conventional combustion-engine vehicles.
In preparation for the pilot study, a group of Grab drivers joined special training with the BYD Cars Philippines team that covered charging options and planning, notable differences between e-vehicles and fuel-combusting cars, and the use of ACMobility’s network of e-vehicle chargers.
Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board chair Teofilo Guadiz III supported the pilot study as it advances the country’s transportation landscape through “innovation and sustainable solutions.”
“This pilot marks a critical step in our efforts to explore and understand the unique opportunities and challenges associated with EV adoption in our country and will provide us valuable insights and data to help us craft informed, inclusive, and effective policies that support and promote sustainable urban mobility while ensuring the safety and convenience of the commuting public,” Guadiz said in a statement.
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