Even emergency response operations are getting electrified. ACMobility, in partnership with BYD Philippines, has officially handed over four electrified vehicles to the Ayala Foundation to enhance its emergency response operations. The donation consista of three BYD Shark 6 DMO pickups and one BYD Sealion 6 DM-i SUV, handed over during the observance of National Disaster Resilience Month.

The vehicles are outfitted with emergency gear designed for rapid mobilization in crisis situations, enabling responders to reach disaster-affected areas more quickly and transport vital supplies more efficiently. Representatives at the turnover included Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala, CEO of ACMobility; Tony Lambino, President of Ayala Foundation; Adam Hu, Country Head of BYD Philippines; and community leaders from Mindoro, such as Barangay Captain Manolito Bagos, Iraya Mangyan representative Wilson Pampilo, and Pablito de Jesus.

“These vehicles are tools for hope, equipped to support rapid mobilization during emergencies and help deliver aid, equipment, and relief where they are needed most. With advanced electric technology and modern rescue features, they are built to serve communities in times of greatest need,” said Zobel de Ayala.

The initiative is part of ACMobility and BYD Philippines’ commitment to donate USD 100 for every BYD Sealion 6 DM-i sold between July 25 and December 31, 2024. The funds, motivated by the damage caused by Typhoon Carina, are directed towards disaster preparedness and relief projects. The Ayala Foundation will utilize the vehicles in its Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) program and other community projects. Proceeds from the donation will also go towards disaster kits and portable water filtration systems for vulnerable areas in Luzon, addressing immediate needs such as safe drinking water and essential supplies.

The DRRM program extends beyond emergency response, encompassing readiness drills for community volunteers, the pre-positioning of essential goods, and the strengthening of local early warning systems. With the addition of the Shark 6 and Sealion 6, the Ayala Foundation gains mobility assets capable of operating in challenging terrain, transporting relief goods, and providing off-grid power to communities cut off from regular utilities.

“Every second matters in a crisis, and these vehicles will help us reach communities faster and safer. We thank BYD Philippines and ACMobility for partnering with us in our mission to uplift lives, especially in times of urgent need,” said Lambino.

The BYD Shark 6 DMO, powered by a Dual Mode Off-road powertrain, delivers 435 PS and 650 Nm of torque through two electric motors and a 1.5-liter turbocharged generator. It can carry up to 835 kg, tow 2,500 kg, and wade through water as deep as 700 mm, making it well-suited for flood rescue operations. The BYD Sealion 6 DM-i offers an electric-only range of 105 km (NEDC) and a total range of up to 1,100 km, enabling it to reach remote areas without frequent refueling or recharging. Both vehicles include Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, which allows them to power appliances, radios, lighting, and communication devices in areas without electricity.

Following the turnover, the vehicles were quickly deployed when Tropical Storms Crising, Dante, and Emong, along with the southwest monsoon, caused heavy flooding across Luzon. On July 25 and 26, the Ayala Foundation used the Shark 6 to deliver over 900 food packs, 500 go-bags, and 2,500 antibacterial medicines to affected barangays in Quezon City, Navotas, Manila, and Marikina. These relief operations involved Ayala Group volunteers, ACMobility staff, and partner organizations, ensuring that supplies reached residents promptly.

The go-bags contained potable water, ready-to-eat meals, hygiene kits, flashlights, and first-aid supplies—essentials meant to sustain families for the critical first 72 hours after evacuation. Food packs included rice, canned goods, and instant noodles to address immediate nutritional needs.

In La Union, BYD’s V2L technology was used to provide free charging services to residents left without electricity after Typhoon Emong. This enabled communities to maintain communication, power small appliances like electric fans and emergency lights, and stay connected while awaiting power restoration.

These initiatives highlight the shared commitment of ACMobility, BYD Philippines, and Ayala Foundation to leverage modern mobility solutions for humanitarian purposes. By integrating advanced electric vehicle technology into coordinated relief operations, the partnership aims to respond to urgent needs during disasters while building resilience for the future.