CSU – EMRDC RESEARCHERS PRESENT STANDARDIZED BATTERY PACK PROTOTYPES FOR LIGHT ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Cagayan State University – Electromobility Research and Development Center (CSU – EMRDC) researchers presented prototypes of standardized battery packs for light electric vehicles (LEVs) to OIC President Dr. Arthur G. Ibañez as part of an ongoing research initiative aimed at transforming electric mobility in the Philippines, April 16, 2025.

The project, titled \"Design and Development of Standardized Battery Packaging for Battery Swapping of Light Fleet Electric Vehicles and Policy,\" is funded by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST–PCIEERD) with a total grant of ₱8,000,000.00.

Led by Engr. Mark Anthony S. Ibañez, the project addresses key barriers to LEV adoption in the country, including lengthy charging times of 8 to 12 hours, limited range and charging infrastructure, and the high upfront cost of batteries, which account for nearly 60% of the total vehicle cost.

“With standardized battery packs and a swapping system, EVs can be recharged in under five minutes—making them more practical and accessible for everyday users,” said Engr. Ibañez.

The developed battery packs are designed for cross-compatibility among various LEV types and feature plug-and-play capability, real-time battery monitoring (state of charge, voltage, capacity, and temperature), and compliance with industry standards.

This initiative includes three core studies: the design of universal battery packaging, the development of a modular battery system, and the formulation of a national policy framework for battery swapping adoption. Commercial rollout is targeted for 2026.

The CSU–EMRDC project team is spearheaded by Dr. Arthur G. Ibañez as the study leader and Engr. Mark Anthony Ibañez as the project leader, supported by a team of faculty and staff from CSU–Carig Campus. Dr. Florentina S. Dumlao serves as the project’s technical adviser.