The Department of Energy (DOE) is implementing the “Market Transformation through Introduction of Energy Efficient Electric Vehicles Project” or the E-Trike Project to help ensure energy security through the promotion of energy efficient and clean technologies. As such, the project is expected to insulate stakeholders from the price volatility of imported petroleum products.

This US$504-million project, largely financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Clean Technology Fund (CTF), is being implemented for 5 years.

Need for e-Bikes

As Filipinos reap the benefits of economic growth, an increase in energy demand is expected. As more people are able to afford cars, there will be a hike in the demand for gasoline, which will lead to an increase in fuel importation. This is exacerbated by the fact that the price of oil in the world market is very volatile, owing to fluctuations in the global economy, unstable foreign exchange rates, and security issues in oil-producing nations.

In the Philippines, there are approximately 3.5 million conventional combustion engine tricycles and motorcycles, emitting millions of tons of CO₂ to the environment every year. These vehicles have a dramatic impact on air quality, affecting many aspects of life in the country, from national health to increased exposure to climate change risks.

According to an ADB study, emissions from the transportation sector represent 30% of air pollution in the Philippines, and a large part is contributed by public transport tricycles with poor quality engines. Carbon dioxide emissions from motorcycles and tricycles alone account for more than 10 million tons per year. E-trikes are environment-friendly, so their use can help significantly decrease pollution in the air.

The use of e-trikes can contribute in addressing these economic and environmental concerns.

Emissions Calculations Description

The project is expected to reduce the transport sector’s annual petroleum consumption by 2.8% (equivalent to 89.2 million liters) per year and achieve a 79% carbon dioxide (CO2) footprint avoidance.