Every time fuel prices go up, weekend travel becomes a little more expensive. For Filipinos who enjoy exploring nearby provinces on two wheels, the rising cost of gasoline is prompting a fresh look at alternatives that promise lower running costs.
Vietnamese electric vehicle maker Vinfast believes that moment has arrived.
The company recently launched 21 dealerships across the Philippines while lowering the prices of its electric motorcycle lineup, moves that reflect its confidence that more Filipinos are ready to consider electric mobility — not only for daily commuting but also for leisure rides.
The Evo now starts at ₱62,900, down from ₱70,000, while the Feliz II has been reduced to ₱64,900 from ₱72,400. The Viper, offered under the company’s battery subscription program, now costs ₱73,900, compared with its previous price of ₱81,900.
For many riders, the appeal goes beyond the purchase price.
Nino I. Favros, CEO of VinFast E-Scooter Philippines
Unlike conventional motorcycles, electric models do away with gasoline, engine oil changes, and many of the mechanical components that require regular maintenance. VinFast estimates riders can cut operating expenses by as much as 80% and maintenance costs by up to 90%, translating to potential savings of around ₱150,680 over five years.
“Electric mobility is not only greener,” said Nino I. Favros, CEO of VinFast E-Scooter Philippines. “It’s also a smarter financial decision for everyday commuting.”
But Favros said affordability is only one part of the company’s long-term strategy.
“We believe Filipino consumers are ready for smarter, cleaner, and more economical mobility solutions,” he said. “We know that trust is earned through great products, strong service, and lasting partnerships. That is exactly what VinFast is committed to building here in the Philippines.”
Beyond the daily commute
VinFast’s new line-up of electric motorcycles
Although most electric motorcycles are associated with city riding, improving battery technology is gradually expanding where they can go.
The Evo offers a claimed range of up to 150 kilometers using two fully charged batteries — enough for many day trips from Metro Manila to nearby destinations and back. It also comes equipped with reverse mode and hill-start assist, features designed to make urban riding and steep inclines easier to navigate.
The Feliz II, meanwhile, is positioned as an everyday companion, combining a comfortable riding experience with a range of up to 145 kilometers. The Viper targets younger riders with a sportier personality, featuring a smart key system, a full-color TFT display, and a 5,200-watt motor.
Across the lineup, riders also get LED lighting, hydraulic disc brakes, reinforced chassis, and dual under-seat battery compartments.
Favros said the three models were developed to meet different lifestyles while sharing the same vision of making electric mobility more accessible.
“The Evo, Feliz II, and Viper represent our vision of electric mobility — making it more accessible, more reliable, and more exciting for Filipino riders,” he said.
Solving the charging dilemma
VinFast’s battery charging stations
Range has improved, but charging remains one of the biggest concerns for prospective EV buyers.
VinFast is addressing that challenge through a battery-swapping system that allows riders to exchange depleted batteries for fully charged ones in about a minute, eliminating the wait associated with conventional charging.
The company plans to deploy 30,000 battery-swapping cabinets across the country with infrastructure partners, complementing home charging and giving riders greater flexibility as the network expands.
Customers may purchase motorcycles with batteries included or opt for a battery subscription plan.
Those who subscribe on or before September 30, 2026 will receive up to 20 free battery swaps per month for one yearfor each subscribed battery. Riders using two subscribed batteries can receive twice that monthly allocation.
The battery subscription is intended to remove another common concern among first-time EV buyers by giving customers access to fully charged batteries without having to think about long-term battery replacement.
Building a nationwide network
VinFast’s dealership rollout is another piece of its long-term strategy in the Philippines.
The company currently operates 21 dealerships nationwide and plans to grow that network to more than 100 locations by the end of 2026.
“We’re just getting started,” Favros said. “By the end of 2026, we plan to expand our network to more than 100 showrooms nationwide, bringing VinFast products and services closer to Filipino riders across the country.”
Each 3S dealership provides sales, service, and spare parts support while hosting public test rides, giving prospective buyers an opportunity to experience the motorcycles and learn how the company’s battery-swapping ecosystem works.
Favros said expanding the retail network is as important as introducing new products.
“Great products are not enough,” he said. “These showrooms mark an important milestone in our commitment to serving Filipino customers and building a strong foundation for long-term growth.”
The company is drawing confidence from its experience in Vietnam, where VinFast delivered more than 407,000 electric motorcycles in 2025, representing growth of more than 550% from the previous year. It has also expanded to more than 650 3S showrooms across its home market.
“The success of Vietnamese consumers embracing electric motorcycles gives us confidence that the same transformation can happen here in the Philippines,” Favros said. “Today, we are proud to bring that same vision, experience, passion, and commitment to Filipino riders.”
VinFast is also backing its electric motorcycles with what it describes as one of the industry’s most comprehensive warranty programs — up to six years or 72,000 kilometers, whichever comes first.
“Purchasing a motorcycle is a long-term decision,” Favros said. “That’s why every VinFast electric motorcycle comes with a comprehensive warranty. It reflects our confidence in our products and our commitment to supporting customers throughout their ownership journey.”
A new way to see the country?
Electric motorcycles are unlikely to replace gasoline-powered bikes overnight, especially for riders tackling long cross-country routes where charging infrastructure remains limited.
But for shorter journeys, scenic coastal drives, food trips, and weekend escapes to nearby destinations, the equation is beginning to change.
Lower operating costs, quieter rides, and fewer maintenance requirements are making electric motorcycles increasingly attractive to travelers looking to stretch their travel budgets without sacrificing mobility. As the battery-swapping network expands and dealerships become more widespread, riding electric could become a practical option for discovering more of the Philippines.
For VinFast, the goal extends beyond selling motorcycles.
“This investment reflects our long-term commitment to the Philippine market and our belief in the future of electric mobility in the country,” Favros said.
With fuel prices remaining unpredictable, the company is betting that more Filipinos will see electric motorcycles not just as an alternative mode of transportation, but as a smarter way to explore the open road.getting there and more enjoying the journey.
