THE recently concluded 10th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) marked a decisive turn in the country’s automotive narrative. What once stood as a showcase dominated by internal combustion offerings has now been reshaped by the unmistakable presence of electrified lineups. Hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery electric vehicles filled the halls, signaling a shift that is no longer tentative but deliberate. Even legacy brands-long anchored in ICE portfolios-have recalibrated their priorities, unveiling electrified models, several of which are fully electric, underscoring a broader industry commitment to sustainability.
This year’s edition revealed more than just new products; it reflected a collective repositioning. The prominence of electrified displays was not a token gesture but a clear statement of intent, illustrating how manufacturers are aligning with evolving consumer expectations and regulatory landscapes. In effect, PIMS 2026 became less about incremental updates and more about transformation, offering a glimpse into how the Philippine market is being steered toward a future where electrification is no longer optional, but inevitable.
For motorists, PIMS 2026 was not merely a showcase of new releases but a redefinition of expectations. HEVs continue to attract those seeking efficiency without lifestyle adjustments, while EVs represent a bold leap toward sustainability, lifted by expanding charging networks and evolving ownership programs. ICE models, though still relevant, face mounting challenges from fuel costs and regulatory pressures. In essence, PIMS 2026 charted the trajectory of Philippine mobility-where innovation, choice, and sustainability converge.
Electrified Momentum Across Brands
WITH seventeen brands driving the theme ‘Forward in Every Drive,’ BAIC, Chery, Foton, Geely, Honda, Isuzu, Jetour, Kia, MG, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Omoda Jaecoo, Subaru, Suzuki, Tesla, Toyota, and VinFast all underscored their evolving strategy. Nearly half of the 150 vehicles on display were electrified. PIMS 2026 marked a decisive pivot, signaling the Philippine market’s readiness for sustainable mobility across mainstream and premium segments.
BAIC made a strong statement with the B40e Trailmaster rEV, a rugged range-extended plug-in hybrid SUV. Designed to balance off-road capability with electrified endurance, the model offers a total driving range exceeding a thousand kilometers, with more than 150 kilometers available on pure electric power. Its presence at PIMS underscored BAIC’s intent to merge adventure with sustainability, positioning the brand as a serious contender in the electrified SUV segment.
Chery unveiled the QEV hatchback, a fully electric model tailored for urban motoring. Compact yet advanced, the QEV delivers over 400 kilometers of range on a single charge and supports rapid DC charging. Inside, it features a large touchscreen interface powered by a Snapdragon processor, wireless connectivity, and modern driver-assist systems. The QEV’s debut reflected Chery’s ambition to make electrification accessible to everyday Filipino motorists.
Foton reinforced its pioneering role in commercial electrification with the launch of the Coach EV, a 33-seater all-electric bus. Equipped with a high-capacity battery and capable of covering up to 350 kilometers per charge, the Coach EV was presented as a practical solution for fleet operators and institutional transport. Its introduction at PIMS highlighted Foton’s commitment to sustainable mobility beyond private vehicles, extending electrification into the public and corporate transport sectors.
Geely’s stand was anchored by its newly launched EX2 EV and the EX5 i-DM, alongside the full EV version of the EX5. Together, these models underscored Geely’s dual strategy of hybrid practicality and full electrification, positioning the brand as a frontrunner in accessible yet progressive mobility.
Honda underscored its electrification drive with the Prelude e:HEV, joined by the Civic RS, HR-V RS, and CR-V RS e:HEV AWD. Complementing the lineup were two electric motorcycles-the Honda UC3 and Honda WN7-signaling the brand’s broader ambition to extend sustainable mobility beyond four wheels.
Isuzu diverged from the electrification spotlight, presenting the latest D-MAX with sharper styling and advanced off-road technologies-highlighted by Rough Terrain Mode, differential lock, and an HD underbody camera. Alongside the updated mu-X and enduring Traviz, the brand reaffirmed its core strengths in durability, versatility, and rugged capability.
Jetour’s centerpiece was the GAIA G700 plug-in hybrid, embodying upscale ambitions. It shared the spotlight with the X70 Plus PHEV, and the newly introduced T2 Lightning i-DM and T1 Lightning i-DM. Together, these models reflected Jetour’s expanding electrified portfolio, blending premium refinement with sustainable technology for Filipino motorists.
Kia’s electrified momentum was evident, with the EV5 taking center stage alongside the flagship EV9. Complementing these were hybrid entries such as the Sorento Turbo Hybrid and Grand Carnival Turbo Hybrid, reinforcing Kia’s dual strategy. Together, the lineup signaled confidence in the Philippine market’s readiness for electrification across segments.
MG underscored its electrification drive with three key debuts. The all-new MG 4 EV arrived as a compact hatchback with over 300 km of range. The MG RX9 PHEV, a three-row SUV, combined turbo power with extended EV capability. Completing the lineup, the MG HS PHEV offered hybrid practicality with premium features. Together, these models reflected MG’s intent to broaden electrification across mainstream and upscale segments.
Mitsubishi strengthened its lineup with the launch of the XForce GLX, a compact SUV designed for affordability and adventure, while previewing the Outlander PHEV, its flagship electrified model. Together, these displays reflected Mitsubishi’s dual focus-expanding mainstream appeal and signaling its commitment to innovation and electrified mobility in the Philippine market.
Nissan entered PIMS with a complete electrified lineup. The Kicks e-Power showcased self-charging hybrid technology, while the Frontier Pro PHEV extended electrification into the pickup segment. The highlight was the Primera EV, a sedan delivering up to 500 km of range. Together, these models marked Nissan’s most comprehensive electrification push yet.
Omoda Jaecoo underscored its dual electrification strategy at PIMS 2026. The J5 SHS hybrid showcased practical efficiency, while the newly introduced J5 EV delivered full electric capability with over 460 km of range and advanced driver-assist systems. Together, these models reflected the brand’s balanced approach-offering Filipino buyers both hybrid practicality and the promise of premium electrified mobility.
Subaru launched the Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid, marking a decisive entry into the local electrified segment. Sharing the spotlight was the Forester e-Boxer, fitted with a new Adventure Pack body kit. Together, these models highlighted Subaru’s self-charging hybrid technology, blending rugged capability with sustainable mobility for Filipino motorists.
Suzuki’s latest Philippine lineup emphasized hybrid practicality across its compact range, with models such as the Dzire Hybrid and XL7 Hybrid underscoring efficiency and affordability. Expanding its electrified portfolio, Suzuki also showcased the Fronx Hybrid and the newly introduced e-Vitara EV, signaling a stronger push toward accessible yet modern mobility solutions for urban buyers.
Tesla’s showcase continues to emphasize its premium EV portfolio, led by the Model 3 and Model Y, both known for their long-range capability and advanced technology. Complementing them are the Model S and Model X, which highlight Tesla’s performance and luxury credentials. Together, these models reinforce Tesla’s benchmark status in the EV space, appealing to buyers seeking cutting-edge electrification.
Toyota delivered one of the most headline-grabbing showcases at PIMS 2026. The long-awaited Land Cruiser FJ finally made its Philippine debut, blending rugged heritage with modern refinement. Sharing the spotlight was the Land Cruiser 300 Hybrid, a flagship SUV that combined luxury with electrified performance. Completing the trio was the Hilux BEV, the iconic pickup reimagined as a fully electric workhorse. Together, these models underscored Toyota’s confidence in electrification while reaffirming its dominance in both adventure and utility segments.
For VinFast, the VF MPV7 took center stage, VinFast’s all-electric seven-seater positioned as a family-oriented upgrade. Supporting the showcase were the compact VF3 EV, the sustainable Herio Green, and the premium Limo Green. Together, these models reflected VinFast’s ambition to cover diverse segments-urban, eco-fleet, and upscale mobility-while accelerating electrification in the Philippine market.