ASEAN founding members forge electric, hybrid cars federation

The Philippines and the other founding member of the Association of South East Nations (ASEAN) on Thursday signed a memorandum of agreement on establishing the ASEAN Federation of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles Association (AFEHVA).

Signed by representatives from Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Singapore in Pasay City, the agreement creates an international body that will focus on electric and hybrid vehicles, especially in the region.

"We intend to pursue more sign ups from our counterparts in ASEAN countries to give the federation more clout and live up to its billing as the unified voice of ASEAN electric and hybrid vehicles industry..." Electric Vehicles Association of the Philippines (EVAP) President Rommel Juan said.

AFEHVA members are expected to undertake the following:

• Encourage and facilitate the exchange of relevant information and best practices among members and with international organizations of similar purpose

• Promote new technology transfer from more advanced countries to the less advanced countries

• Collaborate and cooperate with international bodies in research and development of electric and hybrid vehicles and charging infrastructure as well as other activities of similar purpose

• Represent industry players' views to relevant government and economic bodies on policies, practices and legislation affecting the electric and hybrid vehicles industry.

• Support regulatory alignment in electric and hybrid vehicle standards in the region and in the world

AFEHVA is similar to other groups such as the Electric Vehicle Association of Asia Pacific (EVAAP), Juan noted. — VDS/KVD, GMA News