New Electric Jeepney Variant Presented at Electric Vehicle Show – CleanTechnica

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Basic Energy Corporation (BEC)’s BASIC GEEP electric jeepney drew consistent crowds at the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS) held at SMX Convention Center, highlighting growing industry momentum behind the government’s public utility vehicle modernization program.

The vehicle, part of BEC’s Green Energy E-transport Program (GEEP), represents the company’s entry into what has become an increasingly competitive market for electric public transport solutions. At the summit, the company emphasized both the vehicle’s technical specifications and its accompanying infrastructure support system as key differentiators.

Technical specifications

The BASIC GEEP runs on a 50 kW rated electric motor with peak output of 110 kW, paired with a 66 kWh battery pack. According to company materials distributed at the event, this configuration provides an estimated range of 180 to 200 kilometers per charge — a figure that would allow operators to complete multiple routes without mid-day recharging.

The vehicle is built on a light cargo truck platform chassis from an international OEM supplier, a departure from traditional jeepney construction methods. Critical components including the motor and battery system feature IP 67 rated enclosures, designed to withstand dust and water immersion — an important consideration for Philippine road conditions, particularly during monsoon season.

Standard features include onboard GPS tracking, passenger Wi-Fi connectivity, and an Automated Fare Collection System, reflecting the government’s push for digital payment integration in public transport.

Expected operational costs

BEC representatives at the booth promoted what they described as a “50–60% reduction in operational costs” compared to diesel-powered jeepneys, attributing the savings to lower electricity costs, reduced maintenance requirements, and a battery leasing model. However, the company did not disclose specific pricing for vehicle purchase or battery lease terms during the event.

The GEEP program includes plans for a charging infrastructure network called Basic Recharge, which the company says will incorporate solar-powered stations. Details about the number of planned stations, locations, and rollout timeline were not immediately available.

The BASIC GEEP enters a market where several manufacturers are competing for position in the PUV modernization program. The government initiative, launched to phase out aging jeepneys in favor of safer, more environmentally friendly alternatives, has faced implementation challenges including concerns from transport groups about affordability and financing accessibility.

While the summit showcased multiple electric vehicle solutions, the presence of traditional jeepney operators and transport cooperatives at the event suggested growing — if cautious — interest in electric alternatives. The success of vehicles like the BASIC GEEP will likely depend on the availability of government subsidies, favorable financing terms, and the promised charging infrastructure materializing as planned.

The 13th PEVS served as both a showcase for emerging technology and a reminder of the significant work ahead in transforming the Philippines’ public transport sector. For BEC, the positive reception at the summit represents an important first step. Though, market adoption will ultimately depend on real-world performance and economic viability for operators navigating tight margins.