Electric vehicles are ‘inevitable’ in the Philippines, according to Maria Fe Perez-Agudo, CEO of Hariphil Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), the exclusive distributor of Volvo in the country. Speaking with Velocity on the sidelines of the launch of two full-electric flagship models — the Volvo ES90 and EX90 — Perez-Agudo emphasized that the shift toward battery electric vehicles (BEVs) is not a question of if, but when.

Cost-Benefit Analysis Favors Electric Vehicles

Perez-Agudo said that the cost-benefit analysis of BEVs provides a ‘very minimal cost of ownership’ compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. She added that while some countries, including Japan, South Korea, and the United States, have seen a slowdown in EV adoption, the global trend toward electrification is unstoppable.

HARI, which is responsible for distributing Volvo in the Philippines, stated that the ES90 and EX90 are the most current technologies from the brand known for its safety innovations. The release described the ES90 Ultra BEV (P5.265 million) as an executive electric sedan that combines ‘quiet authority’ with ‘refined sophistication.’

Technological Advancements in Volvo’s New Models

The ES90 Ultra BEV is engineered with a low drag coefficient (0.25Cd), achieved through design elements such as a flat underchassis, flush door handles, and a closed-off front grille. It also features an automatic spoiler shutter on the lower half of the fascia to help cool the high-voltage battery.

According to HARI, the ES90’s sound-insulated cabin is inspired by the ‘Scandinavian-Living-Room’ concept. It includes a panoramic electrochromic roof, power-adjustable, ventilated, heated front seats with massage function, and rear reclinable and ventilated passenger seats. The 3,102-mm wheelbase maximizes interior space.

The ES90 Ultra BEV is the first sedan from Volvo to feature 800-volt EV architecture, allowing for faster DC charging and enhanced thermal efficiency. It offers a WLTP range of up to 700km, making it ideal for executive travel.

EX90: A Family-Oriented EV with Advanced Features

On the other hand, the EX90 (P5.99 million) is a three-row, seven-seat family SUV that has won the World Car Awards. It is positioned as ‘more than an EV counterpart’ of the XC90 and features the Driver Understanding System, which was named one of 2024’s Best Inventions by Time Magazine.

The EX90 features a Scandinavian Living Room interior philosophy, a flat floor, FSC-certified backlit wood décor, and ‘sustainable, high-quality materials.’ It also offers individually adjustable first- and second-row seats, cinema-style seating, power-folding rear seats, and USB-C ports in all rows.

Advanced LED lighting that ‘mimics natural sunlight,’ four-zone climate control, and PM2.5 air purification are among the other features. The EX90 also has numerous storage options, enhancing its utility for families.

Safety is a key focus, with seven cameras, five radar units, and 12 ultrasonic sensors providing thorough awareness of the road, obstacles, and other vehicles. ‘At its core, Next-Generation Pilot Assist provides Lane Keeping, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Navigation Support, enhancing situational awareness, reducing driver stress, and ensuring a safer, smoother, and more confident driving experience,’ said HARI.

The EX90’s twin-motor AWD drivetrain allows for a range of 624km on a 111kWh high-voltage battery. It supports ultra-fast DC recharge, with the ability to charge from 10% to 80% in about 22 minutes at peak charging (350kW). A 300kW (456 hp) powertrain produces 770Nm, allowing the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100kph in 5.9 seconds and reach an electronically limited top speed of 180kph. It has a towing capacity of 2,200kg.

Perez-Agudo noted that the Philippines is at a critical juncture in its transition to electric vehicles. ‘There is a growing confidence when it comes to EV adoption,’ she said. ‘Whether we like it or not, the Philippines has to upgrade its infrastructure in order to also really become global. We cannot be left behind. We may be slow, but in time, we will be able to catch up. So I believe that electrification will happen.’

HARI is currently offering consumers a range of powertrain options, from traditional internal combustion engines (ICE), plug-in hybrids, to BEVs. ‘As I’ve said, it’s just a matter of time. Timing is key,’ she concluded.