BYD Cars Philippines has taken another step toward advancing new energy mobility in the country. Case in point: the Chinese brand recently deployed the first BYD Sealion 5 DM-i taxi fleet in the Cordillera region, introducing 20 electrified vehicles to serve commuters in Benguet and nearby provinces.
The rollout was made possible through a partnership between BYD Cars Philippines, dealer partner SEAelectric, and the Highland Transport Service Cooperative (HTSC) in La Trinidad, Benguet. The initiative marks the country’s first taxi fleet powered by the BYD Sealion 5 DM-i, a plug-in hybrid SUV equipped with the brand’s Super DM-i technology.
Designed to deliver electric-first performance, extended driving range, and improved fuel efficiency, the Sealion 5 DM-i is expected to address the unique transportation demands of Northern Luzon’s mountainous terrain. The deployment supports HTSC’s ongoing fleet modernization efforts while helping operators reduce operating costs and improve service reliability.
According to BYD Cars Philippines Managing Director Bob Palanca, the project demonstrates how electrified mobility solutions can perform beyond urban environments. He noted that the Sealion 5 DM-i provides an efficient and cost-effective transportation option for operators navigating the challenging roads of Benguet and surrounding areas.
The new taxi fleet is also expected to enhance the commuting experience by offering quieter rides, improved comfort, and lower environmental impact compared to conventional vehicles. For passengers, the initiative represents a shift toward cleaner and more sustainable public transportation. The deployment aligns with the broader push for transport modernization in the Philippines, particularly in regions where operators are seeking long-term solutions that balance operational efficiency with environmental responsibility.
Backed by its official local distributor ACMobility, BYD continues to expand its presence in the local market through its growing dealership network and electrification initiatives. The company has been actively promoting electric and hybrid vehicle adoption across various sectors, from private mobility to commercial transportation.
Industry observers view the Cordillera taxi fleet project as a significant milestone for the country’s evolving electric vehicle landscape. Beyond introducing a new transport option, the initiative demonstrates how modern hybrid technology can support public transportation needs while helping reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Autocar’s Take
The launch of the first BYD Sealion 5 DM-i taxi fleet in the Cordillera region shows that electrified mobility is now setting its sights beyond major cities. What makes this initiative noteworthy is its focus on public transportation, where fuel savings and operational efficiency can directly benefit both drivers and passengers.
The challenging terrain of Benguet also provides a practical test for electrified vehicle technology outside urban settings. As transport modernization gains momentum in the Philippines, projects like this demonstrate that cleaner mobility solutions can be both environmentally responsible and economically viable for transport operators seeking long-term sustainability.
