Quezon City eyes transition to e-trikes

MANILA, Philippines — The Quezon City government is gradually phasing out traditional tricycles, as it aims to transition to e-trikes by 2030.

A proposed ordinance is awaiting Mayor Joy Belmonte’s approval to establish an electric tricycle management code, aimed at promoting the transition of motorized tricycles and regulating e-trike operations. 

“We are phasing out two-stroke tricycles with franchise by encouraging drivers and operators to convert into electric tricycles,” said Annmarie Diane Marquinez, supervising transportation development officer.

Marquinez said the phaseout is done to promote the widespread electrification of vehicles, aligning with the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act or EVIDA, which provides for the development of the country’s electric vehicle industry through production, adoption and infrastructure.  

“As of now, we have 2,000 two-stroke conventional tricycles that we want to convert to e-trikes, especially in the underserved roads of the city,” Marquinez said.

The city government has started its pilot testing program for the e-trike conversion, wherein operators and drivers were given a temporary permit to operate.