🧠 Food for thought

Implications, context, and why it matters.

Davao’s EV taxi fleet and permits remain unclear

• Green GSM launched in Davao Dec. 15 with LTFRB (Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board) regional director Nonito Llanos 1. The company withheld fleet count and franchise permits to operate taxis, so it is hard to tell if this is a pilot or citywide.
• Green GSM uses only VinFast EVs 1 (a Vietnamese electric-vehicle maker). Public sources list neither fleet size nor fares versus metered cabs, which clouds consumer impact and positioning.
• BYD Cars Philippines opened Mindanao’s first dealership in Davao in 2024 and planned at least 22 nationwide by end-2024 2. Green GSM picked another brand. Its unknown fleet size raises questions about parts supply, service, and staying power.

Charging investors can target high-use taxi hubs in Davao

• EV taxis need daily power unlike most private cars. Independent operators should put DC fast chargers (high-power direct-current stations that can rapidly add range) at the airport, malls, and business districts with taxi queues.
• Bajada store has two AC chargers and a planned 60 kW DC fast charger nearby 2. Nissan, a Japanese automaker whose dealerships host chargers, says public networks outside showrooms have gaps in cities like Davao 3.
• Property developers with parking can partner with charge-point operators (specialist firms that build and run charging networks) to earn from stalls. A LEAF (Nissan’s electric hatchback) needs about 18.5 hours on a standard 220V outlet in the Philippines 3. Workplace or retail fast charging helps taxi uptime and driver income.