ADB lauded for spearheading Green Transport System

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) was lauded today for co-hosting a recent forum entitled “Energy Efficient Electric Vehicles" together with the Department of Energy (DOE). Senator Edgardo J. Angara, chair of the Congressional Commission on Science, Technology & Engineering (COMSTE), noted that the country’s EV and alternative transport sectors are both gaining momentum. He also said that the government should fast track incentives for local designers and manufacturers of these vehicles. A highlight of the said event was the appearance of two international vehicle experts, Dr. Shannon Arvizu and Mr. Robert Hall. Dr. Arvisu is an expert on e-vehicles, market dynamics for public adoption thereof, and digital media in the clean technology transportation field. Mr. Hall, on the other hand, is a trained automotive engineer with extensive knowledge of battery capacity/performance and optimal vehicle design. The two experts shared innovative approaches to E-vehicle (EV) infrastructure in the Philippines. COMSTE is working with the Electric Vehicle Alliance of the Philippines (EVAP) to develop industry standards and also to do extensive R&D into making longer lasting and more efficient batteries for the vehicles. The ADB – in line with the government’s National Electric Vehicle Strategy – is also funding an e-tricycle program whose aim is to replace conventional transport with environmentally friendly options. "Working together, we can give Manila cleaner air, bluer skies, and a more livable environment," said Kunio Senga, director general of ADB's Southeast Asia Department. "The Philippines is assuming a leading role in Asia in supporting green transportation alternatives, and if e-tricycles are followed by new fleets of electric buses and jeepneys, the effect could be transformative." Currently Makati, Puerto Princesa, Pasig and Mandaluyong have electric vehicle programs. This Green Transport initiative and Electric Vehicle program was conceptualized by COMSTE and the Renewable Energy Research and Development Institute (RERDI). It will be implemented in cooperation with the DOST and the National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP). The project will promote the development of new technology that can produce more efficient, low cost batteries and new electric vehicle design initiatives. Angara said that innovative Green transport systems such as electric tricycles, hybrid jeepneys & buses will help lessen pollution caused by conventional transportation. The COMSTE model for Green Transport includes the use of renewable energy sources such as biofuels (like algae), which will charge the batteries of electric and hybrid vehicles. It is hoped that this will eventually create a sustainable green transportation system. — TJD, GMA News