Top 10 destinations worth driving with an EV
ELECTRIC vehicles (EVs) have rapidly developed over the past decade. Unlike a vehicle with an internal combustion engine, which is near its technological peak, battery and electric motor technology are still new and in their infancy. Therefore, an EV from just five years ago will be significantly different from an EV today. Batteries, essentially an EV’s fuel tank, have become more energy-dense, while electric motors have become more efficient, providing longer ranges.
This longer range in EVs means you can now travel long distances in pure silence and with zero tailpipe emissions. Additionally, while the Philippines is still not a leader in EV infrastructure, development has accelerated in recent years; thanks to initiatives such as the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (Evida) that was passed into law in 2022.
To showcase how far EV technology has come and the development of our EV infrastructure, Fast Times has compiled a list of ten destinations worth traveling to with an electric car. The list is arranged by distance, with KM 0 at Luneta in Manila being a common starting point to maintain consistency and realism, especially for an EV driver living in Metro Manila.
Santa Rosa, Laguna: 38.7 kms
Santa Rosa is one of the most common weekend destinations for Metro Manila residents. Located just 38.7 kilometers (kms) away, it’s easily reachable by city EVs like the Jetour Ice Cream, with its 170-kilometer manufacturer-estimated range. Santa Rosa offers nature-centric development areas like Nuvali and Greenfield, along with outlet stores in Paseo de Santa Rosa. Additionally, Enchanted Kingdom, one of the country’s top amusement parks, is located there. Santa Rosa boasts numerous EV charging stations, including those at SM City Santa Rosa and Solenad 1, Nuvali, and a 180-kilowatt (kW) direct current (DC) fast-charging station at Shell Recharge SLEx Mamplasan Northbound.
Tanay, Rizal: 57.1 kms
Tanay offers picturesque mountain views and twisty winding roads perfect for EVs. Naturecentric destinations abound, allowing you to use your EV’s vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities to power camping gear if desired. Tanay also offers the chance to witness the “sea of clouds” phenomenon at dawn. While charging stations in Tanay are limited, an EV like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 with V2L capabilities is ideal for camping trips.
Tagaytay, Cavite: 64.2 kms
Tagaytay, with its restaurants overlooking Taal Volcano, is a popular destination just 64.2 kilometers away from Manila. Most EVs can handle this trip, with charging options available both in Tagaytay itself and at nearby locations like Nuvali and Alabang Town Center. Regenerative braking can also help conserve energy on the downhill drive from Tagaytay.
Clark Freeport, Pampanga: 97 kms
Clark Freeport offers wide, well-paved roads and duty-free shops, making it an attractive destination. Charging stations are available at SM City Clark, but most EVs can complete the 97-kilometer trip from Manila without recharging.
Balanga, Bataan: 122.8 kms
Balanga serves as the gateway to numerous tourist spots in the province. Charging stops at SM City Bataan may be necessary, especially when exploring the hilly terrain of Bataan.
Subic Freeport, Zambales: 170.5 kms
Subic Freeport boasts duty-free shops and iconic theme parks. A 25-kW DC charging station at UniOil Subic is available, but most EVs can complete the 170.5-kilometer trip without recharging.
San Narciso, Zambales: 194.5 kms
San Narciso offers beaches and surfing opportunities. While charging stations are lacking, a stop at UniOil Subic before heading to San Narciso is advisable.
Baguio City: 259 kms
A trip to Baguio with an EV is feasible, with charging options available at SM City Clark and Shell Recharge Rosario, La Union. Baguio’s cold climate and high altitude make it an attractive destination for many.
San Juan, La Union: 278.2 kms
A trip to San Juan’s relaxing beaches is possible with charging stops at Awesome Hotel or Thunderbird Resort. Shell Recharge Rosario, La Union, provides another charging option for the return trip to Manila.
Vigan City, Ilocos Sur: 405 kms
Vigan’s Spanish colonial charm makes it a worthwhile destination, though the 405-km trip may require charging stops at Shell Recharge Rosario, La Union. Long-range EVs like the Forthing Friday compact crossover can handle this journey comfortably.
As more Filipinos embrace EVs, road trips with EVs will become increasingly common. This trend signals progress toward greater EV adoption and underscores the importance of expanding EV infrastructure nationwide. May this list inspire sustainable motoring journeys in the years to come.