Taguig City:Vinfast has launched an online-to-offline (O2O) platform to facilitate easier access to its electric vehicles (EVs) in the Philippines. This initiative, announced during a briefing in Taguig City, is aimed at allowing prospective buyers to explore Vinfast vehicles online before visiting the physical facility in Pasig City, which accommodates up to 15 vehicles.

According to Philippines News Agency, Roxildes Lacerna, the deputy chief executive officer for O2O at Vinfast Philippines, stated that the new platform enables customers to reserve vehicles online, potentially receiving delivery within 48 hours if available. This service is available for customers paying in cash or through bank financing, including GCash and partner banks.

The introduction of this platform is not expected to impact the company's existing dealer network, currently comprising around 40 dealers nationwide, with plans to expand to 60 by the end of 2026. Lacerna emphasized that the market segmentation strategy accommodates customers preferring either online purchases or physical dealership visits.

In a related development, the Department of Energy (DOE) reported significant growth in the EV market. As of September, approximately 87,500 EVs have been sold nationwide, indicating that one in four vehicles sold this year is an EV.

DOE Director Patrick Aquino highlighted ongoing efforts to increase EV charging infrastructure, with current stations numbering 1,941. The DOE is finalizing regulations mandating public and private establishments to install EV charging stations and is collaborating with other government departments to streamline permitting processes.

Aquino also mentioned the development of the Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy (EVIS), aimed at boosting EV utilization, attracting investors in domestic manufacturing, and creating job opportunities.