Companies launch Gogoro Smartscooters® and Battery-Swapping Pilot in Metro Manila, announce public availability by Q4 2023
In a historic launch event held at the Globe headquarters in Bonifacio Global City, Globe Group’s 917Ventures, Ayala Corporation, and Gogoro Inc. unveiled a new era of sustainable transportation in the Philippines. The companies are joining forces to introduce Gogoro Smartscooters® and battery-swapping technology, offering smart, convenient, and accessible electric two-wheelers to customers.
The commercial release of Gogoro Smartscooters® and battery-swapping stations in Metro Manila is set for the fourth quarter of 2023, marking an important milestone in the Globe Group’s venture into the climate tech space. This initiative addresses the daily pain points of Filipinos while promoting mobility innovation and sustainability.
Globe Group President and CEO Ernest Cu expressed pride in bringing Gogoro Smartscooters® and battery-swapping to the Philippines, emphasizing the transport ecosystem’s ability to blend innovation and sustainability. This partnership offers Filipinos access to electric two-wheelers and Gogoro’s cost-efficient battery-swapping technology, a first in the country.
Gogoro’s entry into the Philippine market introduces a brand that has revolutionized two-wheel mobility in Taiwan, establishing a network of eco-friendly businesses and end-users. With operations in Taiwan, China, India, Japan, Indonesia, Korea, Israel, and now the Philippines, Gogoro has gained a reputation for transforming urban transportation and reducing carbon emissions.
Horace Luke, Founder and CEO of Gogoro, expressed excitement about bringing the Gogoro ecosystem to the Philippines. He highlighted the company’s success in Taiwan, with a vast network of 12,000 battery-swapping stations and over one million smart batteries deployed, resulting in significant CO2 reduction and a superior riding experience for users.
During the launch event, the partners unveiled the first Gogoro battery-swapping station at The Globe Tower, marking the beginning of a network of stations planned for Metro Manila and beyond. Additionally, a Gogoro pilot program will be initiated with 70 Globe employees becoming the first to experience the Gogoro Smartscooters® and battery-swapping system. Their feedback and insights will contribute to enhancing the customer experience before the e-bikes become available to the public later this year.
Bernie Llamzon, Director of Globe Capital Venture Holdings Inc., highlighted the convenience of the Gogoro ecosystem, emphasizing the ability to swap depleted batteries for charged ones in seconds. The introduction of these Smartscooters® presents an eco-friendly alternative to alleviate congestion and reduce carbon emissions in the current traffic situation in the metro.
Vince Yamat, Managing Director of 917Ventures, expressed gratitude for the government’s support in the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) and stressed the importance of enabling policies for the success of EV initiatives in the country. Sustainable transportation projects align with the government’s long-term agenda to promote environmentally friendly transport options and foster digitalization as mobility needs of Filipinos continue to grow.
Globe Group, 917Ventures, and Ayala Corporation are at the forefront of leveraging technology to enhance the lives of Filipinos and protect the environment through their innovative initiatives. This collaborative effort aims to create a sustainable transport system that promotes cleaner air, reduces carbon emissions, and provides an exceptional riding experience for consumers in the Philippines.
