Green SM Deploys Thousands of VinFast EVs to Transform Philippine Taxi Market

Green SM has begun the large-scale handover of VinFast electric vehicles to drivers in the Philippines, marking a significant shift toward zero-emission public transport. The initiative aims to establish the country's first major electric taxi brand through a combination of direct investment and strategic partnerships.

During a driver festival held from September 12 to 14, 2026, Green GSM Philippines handed over 1,000 VinFast EVs to driver partners. This initial wave is part of a broader strategy to deploy up to 18,497 electric vehicles across the archipelago. The fleet comprises a mix of VF 5 small SUVs, known as Herio Green, and Limo Green mid-size MPVs. To facilitate this rollout, the company has partnered with 75 transport companies and cooperatives spanning Metro Manila and key provinces, including Cebu, Davao, and Baguio.

The Green Mobility Ecosystem

Green SM, the ride-hailing and taxi arm of Vietnam's Vingroup, is leveraging its position as the parent company of VinFast to aggressively expand across Southeast Asia. By integrating vehicle manufacturing with a dedicated transport platform, Vingroup is attempting to replicate its success in Vietnam within the Philippine market. The expansion is designed to accelerate the transition from internal combustion engines to electric power in the public transport sector, where fuel costs often dictate driver profitability.

To lower the barrier to entry for local operators, the company is utilizing a variety of financial models, including long-term leases and a dedicated rental program. Furthermore, the Green SM Platform provides a competitive revenue-sharing model, allowing driver partners to retain up to 90 percent of their earnings. This partnership approach is intended to advance electric mobility in a practical and sustainable manner while maintaining unified service standards.

Industry Implications

This deployment represents one of the largest bulk EV deals in the history of the Philippines. By introducing thousands of zero-emission taxis into urban centers, Green SM is not only challenging traditional taxi operators but also putting pressure on the national infrastructure to support large-scale EV charging. The move signals a shift in how transport cooperatives operate, moving away from traditional ownership models toward platform-based partnerships.

Future Outlook

As the remaining 17,000+ vehicles are phased into the market, the success of the venture will depend on the scalability of the charging network in the provinces. Observers will be watching whether the 90 percent revenue-sharing model remains sustainable as the fleet grows and whether other regional transport cooperatives follow suit in abandoning internal combustion engines for electric alternatives.