Makati’s new electric cars to boost emergency response, reduce air pollution

(Photo courtesy of Makati ICRD)

MANILA, Philippines — Makati City’s Public Safety Department recently received five electric cars geared at enhancing its emergency response capabilities and, at the same time, curbing air pollution in the city.

Mayor Abby Binay said all Hyundai IONIQ 5 units will be dispatched in key  areas to ensure “rapid response times in emergencies.”

“As a city, we recognize our critical role in addressing environmental concerns. By introducing electric vehicles into our public safety fleet, we not only enhance our emergency response capabilities but also contribute to reducing air pollution and our overall environmental impact,” Binay said in a statement on Thursday. 

(Photos courtesy of Makati ICRD)

She added that the vehicles have a 58-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, enabling them to charge from 10 to 80 percent within 18 minutes. 

To ensure the continuous operation of the vehicles, Binay said three charging stations are accessible at the Makati City Hall, Palanan Barangay Hall, and Guadalupe Viejo Barangay Hall. 

(Photos courtesy of Makati ICRD)

Dong Wook Lee, President of Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH), said all cars come with “a five-year preventive maintenance service, including parts and labor, wall box chargers, 220v cord chargers, fire extinguishers, training and orientation for drivers, and 24/7 roadside assistance for one year.”

In 2022, Makati signed an agreement with the Korea International Cooperation Agency to establish a smart transportation system featuring a fleet of electric buses.