Any Makatizens out there who have seen these electric vehicles within city limits? These Hyundai Ioniq 5 units make up the local government’s new fleet of response vehicles that will help ensure the safety of everyone in Makati City.
The procurement of these EVs is in line with the LGU’s goal to become a model city built upon sustainable and resilient communities. All five standard-range Ioniqs, which were delivered on January 18, are finished in Phantom Black Pearl and feature blue livery. To ensure they’ll always be up and running, chargers will be installed at the Makati City Hall and the barangay halls in Palanan and Guadalupe Viejo.
“As a resilience hub, we recognize our critical role in addressing environmental concerns,” said Mayor Abby Binay. “By introducing Hyundai Ioniq 5 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 carbon footprint. This move not only bolsters our emergency services but also sets an example for other cities to follow in the pursuit of sustainable urban living.”
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Since 2016, the LGU has rolled out initiatives and formed partnerships in support of its sustainability and resilience endeavors. One such collaborative effort is with the Korea International Cooperation Agency Philippines (KOICA), to create a public transport information and communications technology system and bus service.
Lee Sang-hwa, Korean Ambassador to the Philippines, was present at the Ioniq 5 turnover ceremony and acknowledged the newly forged partnership between Makati and Hyundai. “The Philippines is one of the nations most vulnerable to climate change because of its geographical location and composition, so the electric vehicles for public use revealed today by Makati City is commendable,” he said. “Makati’s future-oriented approach aligns with the national government’s plan to increase the number of EVs in the country.
“It also fits well into Hyundai Motor’s pioneering path to carbon neutrality for the benefit of the future generation. To this end, Korea is more than prepared to partner with the Philippines in the field of eco-friendly transportation.”
Hyundai Motor Philippines president Lee Dong-wook said: “The Ioniq 5 exemplifies the essence of Hyundai Motor Group’s technology and innovation, as proven by the World Car of the Year several times, capturing people’s hearts all over the world. Undoubtedly, Makati is the most suitable city in the Philippines to match it. Today, we are planting the seed of sustainability. We will be one with your commitment in uplifting the lives of Makatizens.”
Makati City was a finalist at the recent 2023 World Smart Cities Awards—the only one from the country and the Asia Pacific region. Its entry was entitled ‘Makati City’s IoT Revolution: Empowering the City to Become Better Stewards of Energy and Environment.’
