Boracay Island is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. With a growing focus on sustainability, many visitors are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint while on vacation. One option that has gained popularity in recent years are Electric Tricycles on Boracay Island. These electric-powered trikes offer a convenient and environmentally-friendly way to explore the island.
1. Intro to Electric tricycles Boracay
Traditionally, tricycle bikes in Boracay have been powered by gasoline, which can be expensive and harmful. The electric tricycle bikes, on the other hand, run on electricity, making them a cleaner and cheaper option. They are also quieter than gasoline-powered trikes. This makes them a more pleasant option for both riders and those living in the area.
2. Government regulations
The shift towards Electric Tricycles on Boracay Island can be attributed to a number of factors. One of the main drivers has been government regulations aimed at reducing air pollution and promoting sustainable transportation. The government offered battery subsidies to promote e-trike use and motivate electric vehicle adoption. This has made it more doable for tricycle drivers to make the switch to electric power.
Initial protests.
When the government initially announced its plans to promote electric vehicles bikes on Boracay Island, many tricycle drivers were skeptical. Many drivers were uneasy to make the switch from their traditional gasoline-powered trikes. They argued that the cost of electric tricycle batteries was too high to afford. Learn more about the implementation and protest about the electric tricycles in Boracay Island here. Initial protests were met with resistance from the government. But over time more tricycle drivers have begun to see the benefits of electric tricycles and have made the switch.
Expensive batteries.
Based on our conversation with one of the local drivers, the government did not subsidize the costs for the batteries. Costs for batteries vary depending on the watt / power of the battery. Our driver told us that he paid 250.000 Pesos only for the battery, which equals today 4.185€. Of course, this is a major hurdle for drivers, but they had to adapt as the law required it.
A medium-sized battery can last 4-5 hours on average and takes the same amount of time to re-charge. Drivers can simply exchange the batteries in common areas which are charging the batteries.
3. How much does it cost to drive in an electric tricycle?
Fares for electric tricycle vehicles in Boracay vary, but they are typically around PHP 50-100 (about $1-2) for a short ride within the main tourist areas, along the white beach areas. Some rental companies also offer hourly or daily rates for those looking to use the e-trikes for longer periods of time. It is important to shop around and compare prices to find the best deal. Local most likely pay a way lower fee compared to tourists. Nonetheless, it is a cheap way of getting around and it’s good to support the local economy.
Location matters!
During the first few nights, we stayed in a local area up the hill which was a 10-15 drive to the beach. We were charged 250 pesos for a one way trip. If you book accommodation further away from the main street, make sure to consider the costs for the additional transportation. Alternatively, you could rent a scooter as well, but it is not cheap either. For two days we paid 3000 pesos which is roughly 50€! In Indonesia, you could rent a scooter for the whole month for that price!
Negotiate and bring small cash!
One way to save on fares is to negotiate with the driver for a lower price, especially if you are planning to take multiple trips or hire the e-trike for an extended period of time. It is also a good idea to carry small denominations of cash, as many e-trike drivers may not have the ability to make change for larger bills.
4. Electric vehicles in Boracay are an inspiration for other Asian countries?
Boracay’s experience with electric tricycles demonstrates the potential for electric transportation to thrive in a variety of settings, from bustling tourist destinations to more rural areas. The convenience and cost-effectiveness of electric tricycles make them a strong alternative to gasoline-powered transportation, and their widespread adoption could have a positive impact on local communities and the environment.
Boracay’s success with electric transportation can inspire other countries to offer incentives and infrastructure for sustainable mobility. These efforts can contribute to a cleaner environment and a brighter future for generations to come. By working together to promote and adopt electric vehicles, we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and help combat climate change. It is important for governments and communities to take action now and follow the lead of innovative destinations like Boracay to build a more sustainable world.
5. Final thoughts.
Overall, Electric Tricycles in Boracay Island are a convenient and sustainable transportation option for exploring the famous Island. Not only do they offer a unique way to see the sights, but they also help to reduce pollution and support the local community by providing an alternative to gasoline-powered transportation. So, if you are planning a trip to Boracay, consider giving the e-trikes a try and do your part to support eco-friendly tourism.
What do you think about the electric tricycles? Let us know in the comments!
Want to know more about Boracay?! This must read article helps you to avoid common mistakes when visiting the island!
[…] While it was fascinating to experience the local lifestyle, the lack of nearby restaurants made us hesitant to venture out at night. However, our second stay at Station 2 was a much better choice. It’s located in the heart of Boracay, just a few hundred meters from the beach, and we didn’t even need to pay for transportation. For more information on getting around Boracay and electric tricycles, click here. […]