Could Two Electric Cars Be the Answer to Rising Fuel Costs for Filipino Families?
Rising fuel prices pushed one Caloocan couple to try something bold: two electric cars under one roof. Menchie and Christopher Galang, who run a photography and videography business, now drive a pair of GAC AION UT hatchbacks.
Their story raises a question for Filipino families facing higher fuel costs. The couple cut their weekly fuel costs from roughly PHP 4,000, though savings will vary by driver and usage.
Why the Galangs Went Electric
The Galangs explored several EV options before choosing the AION UT for its space, value and smart features. They bought their first unit in July after being impressed by its handling on steep inclines in Angono, Tagaytay and Batangas.
The car’s Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability also powers their equipment on location. “The performance is really impressive, and the space inside is incredible,” said Christopher Galang.
They later sold an underutilized gas vehicle and bought a second AION UT. “Buying the second one just two months later was the most logical step for our family and our business,” said Menchie.
How Two EVs Split the Work
One AION UT hauls heavy production gear to shoot locations, while the other handles school runs and city errands. A home solar setup helps power both vehicles with virtually no fuel.
The hatchback has a 440-liter boot, a tight turning radius and IP67/IP68-rated battery protection against floods. GAC Philippines says it offers a 400 km driving range and running costs up to 75 percent lower than gas vehicles.
The AION UT earned a five-star Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) rating on Oct. 12, 2026, after a five-star Euro NCAP rating in September. It has seven airbags and a high-strength steel structure.
The AION UT Elite carries an introductory price of PHP 998,000 at GAC dealerships nationwide through Dec. 31, 2026. The regular price is PHP 1,068,000, and the promo is covered by DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-269021 Series of 2026.
The model comes with an 8-year or 160,000 km basic warranty. The traction battery and electric drive have a separate 8-year or 200,000 km warranty.
Whether two EVs suit other families will depend on driving needs, charging access and budget. For the Galangs, the switch has reshaped how they run both their business and their household.
