MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Grab Philippines has officially launched GrabTaxi Electric, the country’s first fully electric, on-demand taxi fleet recognized by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
In partnership with EV Taxi Corp, this pioneering initiative hits the streets of Metro Manila, with operations kicking off in key urban centers such as Makati, Taguig, Pasig, Mandaluyong, Parañaque, and Pasay. The launch marks not only a regulatory milestone but also a strategic leap toward electrifying the country’s transportation ecosystem.
The initiative follows Grab’s 2024 pilot program with BYD Philippines, which rigorously tested the viability of EVs within the local transport environment. The results were compelling: electric vehicles are not only sustainable, but they also make economic sense. Lower maintenance costs, increased fuel efficiency, and positive driver-partner feedback all affirmed the model’s scalability.
“This is not just about offering another ride option,” said Grab Philippines Country Head Ronald Roda. “It’s about fundamentally changing the DNA of urban transport in the Philippines – one that aligns with our sustainability commitments, empowers Filipino commuters, and creates meaningful green livelihoods. Sustainability cannot be a distant ideal; it must be something you can book, ride, and feel today.”
GrabTaxi Electric is part of Grab’s broader eco-mobility strategy, which includes expanding EV adoption across its GrabCar fleet in regional cities such as Davao and Cagayan De Oro within the year. This phased rollout will be supported by in-app sustainability features such as voluntary contributions for environmental conservation efforts for every Grab transaction, and deeper collaboration with government and private sector partners to accelerate EV ecosystem readiness nationwide.
“As a local operator, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this transformation,” said EV Taxi Corp President Frankie Ang. “Our partnership with Grab proves that when multinational platforms and local innovators work together, we can fast-track a cleaner, more inclusive future for transport – one that delivers value for both passengers and drivers alike.”
Commuter advocates have welcomed the launch. “Zero-emission transport is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity,” said Ira Panganiban of the Coalition of Filipino Commuters. “GrabTaxi Electric shows us that sustainability can be embedded in everyday systems. We hope this sparks a cascading positive effect across the entire industry.”
Currently in beta, GrabTaxi Electric allows passengers to seamlessly book electric taxis within the Transport tab of the Grab app, alongside traditional Grab mobility services. Feedback from passengers and drivers during this phase will shape the future design, expansion, and service model of the offering.
