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Manila Bulletin devider Drive devider Ceburana Lhuillier's Xpress ride-hailing service first to use PHEVs

Ceburana Lhuillier's Xpress ride-hailing service first to use PHEVs

Published Mar 5, 2025 12:54 am

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The shift toward eco-friendly transportation was the main discussion point at the "Sustainable Rides, Pinoy Pride" event at Blue Leaf Pavilion, McKinley Hill. Xpress, the country’s fastest-growing ride-hailing platform, introduced an initiative to promote sustainable urban mobility by integrating plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) into its fleet.

A move toward greener mobility

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As part of its green commitment, Xpress has begun incorporating more eco-friendly vehicles into its ride-hailing service, starting with BYD's PHEV models such as the Sealion 6 DM-i and Seal 5 DM-i. The company aims to make PHEVs more accessible and financially viable for drivers, benefiting both the environment and those who rely on ride-hailing for their livelihoods.

To encourage drivers to transition from conventional fuel-powered cars to hybrid and electric models, Xpress is introducing a 0% commission program for a limited period. This initiative allows drivers operating EVs and hybrid vehicles under the Xpress platform to keep 100% of their earnings during the transition, helping them recover their investment faster while immediately benefiting from lower operating costs. Drivers also undergo an extensive training program before they become eligible for the program to procure and use the new energy vehicles.

Financial support for drivers

Recognizing that upfront costs remain a major barrier to PHEV adoption, Xpress has secured an initial batch of PHEV vehicles to provide drivers with an easier entry into the EV ecosystem. Additionally, the company has partnered with Cebuana Lhuillier’s Ka-Negosyo Program to offer financing solutions tailored for Xpress driver partners. The program provides affordable payment options to support drivers in Metro Manila and other key cities across the country.

Industry support for sustainable transport

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Cliff Cabungcal, President of Xpress

At the event, Xpress President Cliff Cabungcal highlighted the impact of electrification on the ride-hailing industry: "The future of urban transport is sustainable, and Xpress is committed to leading this transition. By investing in electric mobility, we’re not just adopting new technology—we’re creating real opportunities for drivers to increase earnings while reducing their environmental footprint."

Meanwhile Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala, CEO of ACMobility, discussed the significance of this shift in the broader context of Philippine transportation by saying, "Xpress is the first ride-hailing company in the Philippines to take such a decisive step toward sustainable mobility. Their commitment to driver empowerment aligns with ACMobility’s vision of enabling cleaner, more efficient transportation. Through our investment in fuel-efficient and eco-friendly charging infrastructure, ensuring that this transition is not just possible but practical and accessible for drivers nationwide."

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From left: Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala, CEO of ACMobility, and Jean Henri Lhuillier, Chairman of Xpress.

To further support this transition, ACMobility has committed $100 million to expand EV charging networks, ensuring that Xpress drivers using battery-powered vehicles have reliable access to charging stations. This infrastructure investment reinforces Xpress’s decision to integrate BYD vehicles into its fleet.

"The transition to PHEVs is not just about sustainability—it’s about securing better earnings, lower operating costs, and financial stability for our drivers as they become entrepreneurs. That’s why Xpress is introducing a 0% commission program for a limited time to support their transition. With the backing of Cebuana Lhuillier’s Ka-Negosyo Program, Xpress driver partners now have a pathway to PHEV ownership, making this shift more accessible than ever," emphasized Jean Henri Lhuillier, Chairman of Xpress.

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