GWM Philippines is setting the stage for a significant showing at this year’s Manila International Auto Show (MIAS). Posted on its official Facebook page, the Chinese brand is teasing a lineup that signals its push toward electrified mobility. Instead of focusing on a single headline model, GWM Philippines seems to be gearing up to unveil three new models featuring a mix of fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles aimed at different segments of the market.
The teaser photo may be vague at first glance, giving a speculative tone, but bumping up the brightness reveals details that may offer clues to what the brand will uncover on April 9 to 12, 2026, at the World Trade Center Manila in Pasay City.
First on the list is the GWM Ora 5, a compact electric vehicle (EV) designed for urban mobility. Its arrival signals GWM’s intent to strengthen its presence in the growing EV space, particularly as local infrastructure and interest in EV mobility continue to develop. Positioned as an accessible entry point into EV ownership, the Ora 5 could appeal to city dwellers seeking an alternative to conventional fuel-powered hatchbacks.
Next is the GWM Tank 700, a large body-on-frame SUV with a plug-in hybrid system, blending traditional off-road capability with modern electrification. Previewed in last year’s Auto Shanghai, the Tank 700 delivers substantial power output, placing it in a niche category where performance and luxury interact with rugged utility. This model highlights GWM’s ambition to compete in higher-end segments while maintaining its reputation for durable SUVs.
Rounding out the trio is the GWM Haval H7, a mid-size SUV that leans toward practicality and everyday usability. Also expected to feature a plug-in hybrid system, the Haval H7 offers a balance between electric driving range and long-distance flexibility. GWM positions the Haval H7 as a family-oriented model, appealing to buyers who want efficiency without fully committing to a fully electric lifestyle change.
Taken together, these three models illustrate GWM’s deliberate strategy. Instead of forcing electrification, the brand is presenting it as a spectrum, giving buyers the freedom to choose between a full EV and a plug-in hybrid. For the Philippine market, where EV adoption remains gradual, this diversified approach may prove crucial in bridging the gap between traditional and next-generation mobility.
Autocar’s Take
If speculations become reality in a few days, GWM’s MIAS 2026 showcase is an example of a realistic route towards electrification adoption in the Philippines – and that may work in its favor. Rather than offering a single solution, GWM is laying out a range, from full EVs to plug-in hybrids, addressing varying levels of consumer readiness. In a market like the Philippines, where charging infrastructure is still developing, the layered approach sets an ambitious goal grounded in the realities of the country’s electrified mobility industry today.
The Tank 700 may grab attention, but the Haval H7 could be the more relevant volume player. And the Ora 5 has strong potential to drive the brand’s electrified ambition into the mainstream market. Ultimately, success will depend less on specs and more on pricing, after-sales support, and how well these technologies translate to daily use.
