26 February 2016

(Taguig City) Committed to push for alternative transport, the Department of Energy (DOE) awarded the contract for the procurement of electric tricycles under Package 1 of the Market Transformation through Introduction of Energy-Efficient Electric Vehicles (E-Trike Project) Program to Uzushio Electric Company, Limited at the ceremonial signing held on February 15, 2016.

 Energy Secretary Zenaida Y. Monsada said “One way of reducing our carbon emissions is through transforming our transportation system, in which we are looking at the E-trike project as a catalyst to encourage entry of more efficient modes of public transport.”

 This Asian Development Bank (ADB)-funded project is also envisioned to revitalize the public transport sector and support the nascent industry by offering energy-efficient electric vehicles in the market.

 Following the ideal timeline of the project, the E-trikes will ply the streets of the National Capital Region, and Region IV-A & B on or before May 2016 for the initial roll out of 3,000 e-trikes units.

 After the conduct of the international competitive bidding consistent with and after obtaining ADB’s no objection, Uzushio emerged as the lowest evaluated and substantially responsive bid among those who joined the bidding for the E-Trike Project on May 06, 2015. Uzushio, a Japanese firm, is represented locally by BEMAC Electric Transportation Philippines, Incorporated.

 The DOE remains open to all local government units as E-trike off-takers of their respective localities to be used in tourism growth areas, mixed-use economic zones, wide swath of campuses as well as residential enclaves.