Manila commuters are quietly shifting to a new kind of taxi

Green GSM Philippine launch
Photo: Green GSM

Officially launched just two months ago, Green GSM, a pioneering all-electric taxi service in the Philippines, is gradually winning over consumers in Metro Manila. The company, which operates a fleet of Nerio Green electric vehicles (EVs) based on the VinFast VF e34, began its Philippine service with the goal of providing taxi rides that promise cleanliness, comfort, and punctuality.

Green GSM shared that as early as a few days after its launch, passengers had noted key differences between it and other conventional taxi services. Many highlighted the absence of engine noise, zero vehicle emissions, and the constant cleanliness of the cars.

“The rides show up when they should, the drivers are courteous, and I always feel safe. Compared to other apps, this one’s way more dependable,” shared Gabriel Joshua R. Ancheta, a commuter who has experienced the Green GSM difference.

Green GSM EV taxi in the city
Photo: Green GSM

Another commuter, Yaj Myel Manzo, went on to say, “The car is very clean and comfortable even in hot weather. No bad smells, very organized,” emphasizing the Green GSM taxi’s lack of fuel smell, reduced cabin heat, and quieter rides.

And, while on the subject of quieter rides, many passengers noted that they experience calmer trips, even in the midst of heavy traffic. Commuter Mary Joyce L. Salazar even described the experience as having “VIP feels on the passenger seat.”

But it’s not just the actual ride that has caught the attention of the commuters. The convenience of booking a ride through the Green GSM mobile app has gained praise, as well. Manzo noted that creating an account and booking a ride was a user-friendly experience, while Ancheta highlighted the app’s user interface, describing it as simple to use and not difficult to figure out, even for non-tech-savvy users. Beyond convenience, some passengers also highlighted health and environmental benefits as reasons why they choose Green GSM.

Green GSM proud customer and driver
Photo: Green GSM

According to Green GSM, the Philippine ride-hailing industry is valued at $80-million this year, and the company sees the industry growing to $1-billion in value in the coming years. It boasted that in this fast-growing industry, it’s positioning itself as a service that combines sustainability and reliability.

Green GSM’s Global CEO, Nguyen Van Thanh, described the EV taxi service initiative as a green mobility revolution in the Philippines. His claim was solidified with early passenger feedback, proving that Green GSM is beginning to gain momentum in the competitive market. 

Tagged , , ,
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.