DC2023-05-0012 — EV Recognition Guidelines
Full title: Guidelines on the Electric Vehicle (EV) Recognition and Adoption of EV Standard Classification on Road Transport for Incentive Eligibility Pursuant to the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act
Issued: 12 May 2023 | Secretary: Raphael P.M. Lotilla
This circular establishes the process for DOE recognition of road transport EVs as a prerequisite for EVIDA incentive eligibility, and harmonizes EV classifications across government agencies.
Scope (§2)
Applies to manufacturers, assemblers, importers, and rebuilders (MARs) of road transport vehicles in the Philippines. Air and water transport EVs: separate issuance.
EV Classification (§4)
| Type | Definition |
|---|---|
| BEV (Battery EV) | Electrically propelled; only a traction battery as power source. Also called PEV (pure electric vehicle). |
| HEV (Hybrid EV) | Both rechargeable energy storage and fueled power source for propulsion. |
| PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid EV) | HEV with rechargeable energy storage that can be charged from an external electric source. |
| LEV (Light EV) | EVs used in micromobility <50 kg (e-scooters, e-bikes, e-personal transport). |
DOE may recognize additional types as technology advances, provided the vehicle has ≥1 electric drive for propulsion.
Road vehicle classification follows PNS 1891 (DOTr DO 2010-32): Class L, M1, N1, etc.
Recognition Process (§6–8)
- MAR submits: Notice to EUMB (Annex A) + Specification Form (Annex B) for each EV model via EUMB official email/online platform
- EUMB processes: Within 20 working days — recognized EVs listed on DOE website
- Listing period: Recognized EVs remain until not marketed for 90 consecutive calendar days, at which point the MAR removes them via the platform
- Revisions: MAR files through platform; acted upon within 7 working days. Revisions to EV classification, model number, transmission type, body type, motor rating, traction battery energy, or charger connector type = new recognition application
Incentive Eligibility
Only DOE-recognized EVs on the official listing may avail of EVIDA fiscal incentives (excise tax exemptions, import duty exemptions) and non-fiscal incentives (MVUC discounts, number-coding exemptions) [DC2023-05-0012, §7.3, 2023-05-12].
NGA/LGU Harmonization (§9)
All national government agencies and LGUs must adopt the §4 classification for all EV-related regulations. Unlisted vehicles = Unrecognized EV, ineligible for EVIDA incentives.
Review
DOE reviews every 2 years from date of issuance, or earlier as needed [DC2023-05-0012, §10, 2023-05-12].
Full text: Cleaned copy