Entry of Radar Ignites War in Philippines’ Electric Pickup Truck Segment

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The foundation of the Philippine pickup market, long cemented by diesel-powered fixtures like the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger, is now undergoing its most significant disruption yet. A trio of electrified pickups from Chinese manufacturers — BYD, Geely’s Radar, and Dongfeng — have arrived, not as niche experiments, but as strategically positioned challengers redefining the balance of performance, utility, and sustainable mobility.

It is the just-launched (last Friday, October 3) Radar pickup, a sub-brand of Geely, that has caused the disruption primarily because of pricing. Officially released in the Philippines fewer than 48 hours ago, insiders from the distributor United Asia Automotive Group Inc. (UAAGI) tell CleanTechnica that inquiries are nearing a thousand already. The pricing throws the gauntlet on EVs in the country.

Affordability meets EV architecture

Geely’s Radar checkmated BYD with a two-pronged strategy focused on pricing and modern EV architecture.

The Radar RD6 Econ spearheads the pure-electric movement with a starting price of just ₱1,358,000. Built on Geely’s dedicated Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA), the RD6 prioritizes a car-like ride and handling. The top-tier 4×4 EV variant delivers 381 hp and 485 Nm of torque, capable of an electric range of up to 443 km. This price and performance balance makes the RD6 Econ the most accessible and performance-oriented pure-electric utility vehicle for lifestyle buyers and early EV adopters.

Complementing this is the Radar RD6 EM-P PHEV, priced from ₱1,658,000. While the conventional engine output is stated at 156 hp, its hybrid system allows for an exceptional 1,000 km combined range, with an electric range of 106 km. This variant is positioned to capture buyers seeking the efficiency and tax benefits of a hybrid at a lower price point than the BYD Shark. Both RD6 models enhance utility with standard Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality.

BYD Shark DMO

The BYD Shark DMO has established itself at the high end of the market, debuting with a starting price of approximately ₱2,098,000. The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) utilizes BYD’s advanced Dual Mode Off-road (DMO) platform, boasting a robust body-on-frame structure paired with a sophisticated four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension system.

Its performance figures are segment-leading: a dual-motor, 1.5L turbocharged hybrid system delivers a colossal 435 PS and 650 Nm of torque, enabling the truck to hit 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds. This power places it in direct competition with performance variants like the Ford Ranger Raptor. Crucially, the Shark offers an electric-only range of 100 km and a total combined range exceeding 800 km, giving buyers a premium, high-tech experience centered around a signature rotating 12.8-inch infotainment screen, while simultaneously eliminating range anxiety.

Dongfeng Rich 6 EV

Occupying the purely commercial utility niche is the Dongfeng Rich 6 EV, with a starting price of ₱2,300,000. The price knocked this transporter out of contention. Familiarity, however, more than than anything makes it retain the classic, rugged silhouette and ladder-frame construction of a work truck, having been developed from an existing platform (related to the Nissan Navara).

Its focus is on proven durability and basic electric utility, powered by a single motor that produces 161 hp and 420 Nm of torque. The Rich 6 EV offers an electric range of up to 450 km and boasts a high payload capacity (often cited at 1,200 kg in the base variants). Its higher price point for a pure-EV positions it more toward commercial fleet operators who prioritize longevity and a familiar construction style for heavy-duty tasks, rather than performance or luxury.

The collective entry of these brands validates the Philippines as a burgeoning market for electric utility vehicles. The competition immediately diversifies the segment: BYD dominates the performance and premium hybrid space; Radar drives volume with affordable, contemporary EV and PHEV options; and Dongfeng caters to the traditional workhorse demographic with an electrified tool. This intensified competition is rapidly accelerating the introduction of new technologies, compelling the entire industry to adapt to an electrified future for the quintessential Filipino pickup.

Industry insiders tell CleanTechnica the next pickup coming to the country will be from Zeekr and then another one from DongFeng.