Are EVs the future of taxis? Dongfeng thinks so

Dongfeng EVTaxis discussion event
Photo: Dongfeng

Dongfeng Motors Philippines, through its official local distributor, Legado Motors Inc., recently hosted a business forum to inform transport operators about the benefits of switching to electric vehicles (EVs). The event, titled “EV TNVS or Taxi? We Got You!,” was held at Dongfeng’s Pasig showroom last October 11, 2025, and was graced by interested transport operators, drivers, and entrepreneurs venturing into the taxi business.

In more detail, the discussion focused on the economic and environmental benefits of transitioning to EV taxis. One of the highlights was an engaging discussion with motivational coach Reymond Delos Reyes, who shared insights on how investing in EVs can increase profitability and long-term earnings.

Giovanni Frias, Vice President for Operations at Dongfeng Motors Philippines, presented a detailed cost comparison between EVs and traditional vehicles with internal combustion engines (ICE). According to their analysis, an EV taxi can save operators up to P612,470 in fuel costs annually. This is in addition to savings from lower maintenance costs.

Dongfeng EVTaxis discussion event
Photo: Dongfeng

Among the taxi companies present was TaxiKo, a ride-hailing platform under Legado Motors. One of its representatives shared his experience with the Dongfeng E70 Pro EV taxi. He recounted driving from Infanta, Quezon, to Pasig via Marilaque Highway. Despite the long drive and steep inclines along the way, the unit’s battery retained 30% of its charge upon arrival. The demonstration highlighted the Dongfeng E70 Pro EV taxi’s endurance and efficiency, eliminating range anxiety and the worry of running out of battery power on long journeys.

Aside from TaxiKo, representatives from major delivery and mobility platforms, such as Lalamove and Xpress App, attended the event, expressing interest in integrating Dongfeng EV taxis into their fleets. The attendees participated in test drive sessions featuring the Dongfeng E70 Pro to experience the car’s quiet performance and smooth handling.

“Through initiatives like this, we continue to empower transport operators to make informed and forward-thinking business decisions. Our goal is not only to promote cleaner mobility but also to ensure long-term business success for our partners,” said Mr. Brennan Nathan Lim, Deputy CEO of Legado Motors Inc.

Dongfeng EVTaxis discussion event
Photo: Dongfeng
Dongfeng EVTaxis discussion event
Photo: Dongfeng
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Randolph de Leon

Randolph de Leon

Randolph is a visually-impaired car photographer and one of the correspondents of Autocar Philippines. Seeing the world out of his left eye since birth, Randolph loves to photograph cars and most especially motorsport events. Despite the challenges he's facing, Randolph continues to be an optimistic energy to himself and to those around him, living life to the best of his abilities.