EV Charging in the Philippines: A Simple Guide
New to electric cars? Here's the short version: PH EVs use Type 2 for AC and CCS2 for DC fast charging, there are 800 public charging locations (137 with DC fast charging, 107 free), and most of your charging will happen at home or while parked. The details below.
What connector do EVs use in the Philippines?
The Philippines uses Type 2 for AC charging and CCS2 (CCS Combo 2) for DC fast charging, the same as Europe. Nearly every EV here (BYD, Tesla, Geely, Nissan and more) uses this pair, so a public charger listing Type 2 + CCS2 will fit your car. The older CHAdeMO and Chinese GB/T connectors are uncommon. On our directory you can set your EV and see only the chargers that fit it.
AC vs DC: what's the difference?
AC charging is slower (around 7–22 kW) and is what you'll find at most malls and at home, best when you're parked for hours. DC fast charging (50 kW and up) is far quicker and makes long road trips practical, but it's usually paid and less widespread. For day-to-day driving, AC at home covers most people; DC fast is for topping up on the road.
How long does charging take?
On a DC fast charger, most EVs reach 10–80% in about 30–60 minutes. On an AC charger, a full charge takes roughly 4–8 hours, which is why AC chargers are great for malls (charge while you shop) and overnight at home, but not for a quick highway stop.
How much does it cost?
Paid public charging usually runs about ₱20–₱40 per kWh, depending on the network and AC vs DC. Charging at home on a residential rate is cheaper per kWh. And many chargers are free, see free EV charging in the Philippines, led by SM Supermalls.
Charging on a road trip
Planning a long drive? Coverage outside Metro Manila and the main Luzon corridors still has gaps. Check the chargers along your expressway and the longest stretch without DC fast charging before you go, and arrive at your destination with a plan to charge.
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FAQs
What connector do EVs use in the Philippines?
The Philippines has standardised on Type 2 for AC charging and CCS2 (CCS Combo 2) for DC fast charging. Almost every EV sold here, BYD, Tesla, Geely, Nissan and others, uses this pair, so a public charger with Type 2 and CCS2 will fit your car. Older CHAdeMO and Chinese GB/T connectors are rare.
How long does it take to charge an EV in the Philippines?
On a DC fast charger, most EVs go from 10% to 80% in about 30–60 minutes. On a slower AC charger (Type 2, the kind at most malls), a full charge takes roughly 4–8 hours, fine for topping up while you shop or overnight, but not for a quick highway stop.
How much does it cost to charge an EV in the Philippines?
Paid public charging typically runs around ₱20–₱40 per kWh depending on the network and whether it's AC or DC fast. Charging at home on a residential Meralco rate is cheaper per kWh. And many mall chargers, led by SM Supermalls, are free to customers (you only pay parking).
Where can I charge an EV for free?
There are 107 free public charging locations in the country, led by SM Supermalls' nationwide network (free to mall customers; parking fees still apply). See the full free charging map.
What's the difference between AC and DC charging?
AC charging is slower (typically up to ~7–22 kW) and is what you'll find at most malls and at home; it's best when you're parked for hours. DC fast charging (50 kW and up) is much faster and is what makes long road trips practical, but it's usually paid and less common.
Can I charge my EV on the expressway?
Some expressway service areas and nearby stops have chargers, for example along NLEX, SLEX and TPLEX, but coverage has gaps. Before a long drive, check the chargers along your route and the longest stretch without DC fast charging.