Inchcape Philippines’ two brands—Changan and Mercedes-Benz—both had solid New Energy Vehicle (NEV) sales during the first quarter of 2026. This is based on data from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines (CAMPI).
“This performance reflects the growing interest in electrified mobility in the Philippines and the importance of offering customers meaningful choice. Through Changan and Mercedes-Benz, we aim to support different mobility needs, from more accessible electrified options to premium electric vehicles, while continuing to work with our partners to help build confidence in the transition to new energy vehicles,” said Alex Hammett, Managing Director for South Asia & Pacific.
As a brand that celebrates a 160-year global legacy of innovation, Changan placed fifth in both the Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) segments.
In the Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) segment, Changan saw a 168 percent increase versus last year’s BEV units sold. Their sole BEV, the Lumin, sold 75 units compared to 28 units in 2025. 25 units were sold in March alone.
Meanwhile, in the Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) segment, Changan saw a 970 percent increase with 107 units sold from January to March 2026. This is compared to just 10 units in 2025. 57 units of the Nevo Q05 PHEV, A05 PHEV, and Hunter K50 REEV were sold in March.
Mercedes-Benz, another brand that’s holding a landmark 140 years of innovation, is upholding its commitment to delivering sustainable luxury mobility. They ranked 10th in BEVs and 7th in PHEV sales.
Central to this achievement is the Mercedes-Benz EQ portfolio, where they sold 22 units of the EQA, EQB, EQE, EQE SUV, EQS, and EQS SUV.
On the other hand, Mercedes-Benz also recorded strong growth in the PHEV segment, ranking 7th in the process. Their 41 units sold from January to March 2026 is equivalent to a 215 percent year-on-year rise. March saw 24 units of the GLE 400e, E 350e, and GLC 350e.
Seems like Mercedes-Benz hasn't been doing so well lately. I believe it's primarily due to their massive use of touchscreens which make a car feel and look cheap. Screens aren't luxury. Technology isn't technically luxury as well.
ReplyDeleteScreens aren't a luxury but they are becoming a baseline. You have the current generation of kids/teenagers who are growing up with all these screens (especially the ones for rear passengers) and they will expect/want that for their future cars. How you integrate that technology into a seamless experience is part of what defines a luxury product.
DeleteThis is a very low volume market for these types of vehicles and when you have a 216% increase regardless of what it was I wouldn't called that a poor showing...it will only gets better....
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