WHEN REVISITING automotive history, few names resonate with the same fervor and reverence as Porsche. And as many of you already know, 2023 carries with it an important milestone for the brand \u2014 it marks seven and a half decades of automotive brilliance.
\nPorsche Philippines was certainly savvy to join in on the celebrations, and it did this by holding a \u201cFestival of Dreams\u201d event at PGA Cars Greenhills last Saturday. And joining the event were lots of local Porsche fans (including the members of Porsche Club Philippines), regional Porsche executives, the founder of PGA Cars, members of the media and the German ambassador to the Philippines. Everyone was clearly enthralled by the iconic Porsche sports cars that were put on exhibit for the occasion.
\nAnd nestled in the heart of this anniversary is a legacy that transcends vehicular prowess. It is in fact, a testament to the car brand\u2019s relentless pursuit of car perfection \u2014 almost like the creation of a symphony that is composed in the language of aesthetics, horsepower, and precision engineering. This is indeed very Porsche.
\nIt was also the ideal occasion to locally launch the new Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid, which expands the all-new Cayenne lineup here after it was rolled out last September. The new Cayenne E-Hybrid is equipped with a three-liter V6 turbo engine, paired with a new electric motor that is integrated into the vehicle\u2019s eight-speed automatic transmission. This gifts the vehicle with a combined power output of 470ps and 650Nm of torque. And this enables the Cayenne hybrid to go from a standstill to 100kph in just 4.9 seconds, eventually reaching a top speed of 254kph. Its new, high-voltage battery serves up 8kWh more, enables the car to run on purely electric mode for about 90 km. Furthermore, the car\u2019s HV battery can be fully charged in two hours and 15 minutes.
\n\u201cThe introduction of the new Cayenne E-Hybrid in the country represents the latest chapter in our evolving success story,\u201d expressed Porsche Philippines President and CEO Roberto Coyiuto III. \u201cThrough models like this, we are redefining the concept of luxury by taking environmental and personal wellbeing into account along with performance. It also signifies our intention to continuously set the benchmark in the domestic luxury auto sector.\u201d
\nMeanwhile, PGA Cars also took the opportunity to hold the groundbreaking ceremony on its upcoming Porsche Center in Manila \u2014 to be housed within a 15-storey building that is slated to rise beside the existing Porsche facility, and will be fully built in three years. The objective of the new facility is to integrate the showrooms, corporate offices, and service areas within one edifice. There will be underground parking levels that will go all the way down to Basement 4. This will certainly expand the brand\u2019s car service capacity; and will enable Porsche to include a first-ever, dedicated facility for its fully electric vehicles. Moreover, it will also ensure larger areas for Porsche products, in anticipation of future Porsche retail space requirements. And obviously, the place will look ever more iconic.
\n\u201cAs we look back on a year of vibrant expressions of Porsche passion in Asia-Pacific, we are glad that Porsche Philippines wraps up our 75th anniversary of sports cars with another thrilling activation,\u201d exclaimed Hannes Ruoff, CEO of Porsche Asia Pacific. He furthered that, \u201cAs we officially mark the groundbreaking of the new Porsche Center Manila, we hope to usher in a new era of success for our trusted partner \u2014 PGA Cars.\u201d
\n", "content_text": "1 of 5\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO FROM PGA CARS\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n From left are PGA Cars President Benedicto Coyiuto, Porsche Philippines President and CEO Roberto Coyiuto III, German Ambassador to the Philippines Dr. Andreas Pfaffernoschke, Porsche Asia Pacific CEO Hannes Ruoff, PGA Cars Director Prudencio Coyiuto, and Porsche Philippines Managing Director William Angsiy. \u2014 PHOTO FROM PGA CARS\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Holding a press conference at the Porsche showroom are (from left) Porsche Asia Pacific Head of Region Tim Walkowiak, Porsche Asia Pacific CEO Hannes Ruoff, and Porsche Philippines Managing Director William Angsiy. \u2014 PHOTO FROM PGA CARS\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The Porsche 356 is the brand\u2019s first sports car, with the very first one released in roadster form. \u2014 PHOTO FROM PGA CARS\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The all-new Porsche Cayenne now gets electrified with an E-Hybrid variant. \u2014 PHOTO FROM PGA CARS\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nIt\u2019s been 75 years since the first Porsche sports car was allowed to hit the road \u2014 and enter our dreams\nWHEN REVISITING automotive history, few names resonate with the same fervor and reverence as Porsche. And as many of you already know, 2023 carries with it an important milestone for the brand \u2014 it marks seven and a half decades of automotive brilliance.\nPorsche Philippines was certainly savvy to join in on the celebrations, and it did this by holding a \u201cFestival of Dreams\u201d event at PGA Cars Greenhills last Saturday. And joining the event were lots of local Porsche fans (including the members of Porsche Club Philippines), regional Porsche executives, the founder of PGA Cars, members of the media and the German ambassador to the Philippines. Everyone was clearly enthralled by the iconic Porsche sports cars that were put on exhibit for the occasion.\nAnd nestled in the heart of this anniversary is a legacy that transcends vehicular prowess. It is in fact, a testament to the car brand\u2019s relentless pursuit of car perfection \u2014 almost like the creation of a symphony that is composed in the language of aesthetics, horsepower, and precision engineering. This is indeed very Porsche.\nIt was also the ideal occasion to locally launch the new Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid, which expands the all-new Cayenne lineup here after it was rolled out last September. The new Cayenne E-Hybrid is equipped with a three-liter V6 turbo engine, paired with a new electric motor that is integrated into the vehicle\u2019s eight-speed automatic transmission. This gifts the vehicle with a combined power output of 470ps and 650Nm of torque. And this enables the Cayenne hybrid to go from a standstill to 100kph in just 4.9 seconds, eventually reaching a top speed of 254kph. Its new, high-voltage battery serves up 8kWh more, enables the car to run on purely electric mode for about 90 km. Furthermore, the car\u2019s HV battery can be fully charged in two hours and 15 minutes.\n\u201cThe introduction of the new Cayenne E-Hybrid in the country represents the latest chapter in our evolving success story,\u201d expressed Porsche Philippines President and CEO Roberto Coyiuto III. \u201cThrough models like this, we are redefining the concept of luxury by taking environmental and personal wellbeing into account along with performance. It also signifies our intention to continuously set the benchmark in the domestic luxury auto sector.\u201d\nMeanwhile, PGA Cars also took the opportunity to hold the groundbreaking ceremony on its upcoming Porsche Center in Manila \u2014 to be housed within a 15-storey building that is slated to rise beside the existing Porsche facility, and will be fully built in three years. The objective of the new facility is to integrate the showrooms, corporate offices, and service areas within one edifice. There will be underground parking levels that will go all the way down to Basement 4. This will certainly expand the brand\u2019s car service capacity; and will enable Porsche to include a first-ever, dedicated facility for its fully electric vehicles. Moreover, it will also ensure larger areas for Porsche products, in anticipation of future Porsche retail space requirements. And obviously, the place will look ever more iconic.\n\u201cAs we look back on a year of vibrant expressions of Porsche passion in Asia-Pacific, we are glad that Porsche Philippines wraps up our 75th anniversary of sports cars with another thrilling activation,\u201d exclaimed Hannes Ruoff, CEO of Porsche Asia Pacific. He furthered that, \u201cAs we officially mark the groundbreaking of the new Porsche Center Manila, we hope to usher in a new era of success for our trusted partner \u2014 PGA Cars.\u201d", "date_published": "2023-12-18T00:05:04+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-17T14:30:41+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image1-1.jpg", "tags": [ "Angel Rivero", "Wayfarer", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ], "summary": "WHEN REVISITING automotive history, few names resonate with the same fervor and reverence as Porsche. And as many of you already know, 2023 carries with it an important milestone for the brand \u2014 it marks seven and a half decades of automotive brilliance." }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=563937", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/18/563937/yule-find-a-grab-more-quickly/", "title": "Yule find a Grab more quickly", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\nTHE PROTRACTED holiday season in the Philippines typically see an uptick (make that huge uptick) in vehicle traffic as Christmas draws nearer. More people are out with greater frequency as they rush to meet their shopping and gift requirements (and requests). They are out more times, and longer.
\nFor ride-hailing customers, this time of the year also means longer wait times to book that vehicle \u2014 that is, if you get one at all. This is a cyclical phenomenon, said Grab Philippines Chief Operating Officer Ronald Roda in a recent presser, with GrabCar demand expected to shoot up by at least 20% this month, with a high of 45% to 50% on the second and third weeks. Pressed for absolute numbers by \u201cVelocity,\u201d Mr. Roda said the company cannot declare these as a matter of corporate policy.
\nHe, however, admitted that, for good or for bad, Grab will be judged for the way it addresses the expected commuter surge, amid the aforementioned traffic over these crucial two weeks. Its plan, therefore, is to roll out insightful strategies to ensure a \u201cseamless holiday experience for holiday commuters\u201d that will optimize its fleet.
\n\u201cThere is absolutely, no excuse,\u201d Mr. Roda stressed.
\nCompared to pre-pandemic numbers, current ridership is still lagging behind \u2014 owing to the fact that customer needs have evolved. While going to the office was previously ranked first among the reasons to book a Grab, the present situation of increased remote working has seen leisure take its place as the top reason. \u201cWe are still about at 85% the pre-pandemic demand,\u201d revealed the executive.
\nOn the plus side, there is more supply of ride-hailing vehicles this year, thanks to the Department of Transportation and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board opening more slots (4,000 in January, 10,300 in April, and 10,200 in August). The present Grab fleet, per Mr. Roda, is 40% more than last year\u2019s number. The total GrabCar supply is comprised of some 30,000 vehicles.
\nAs part of a 10,000-strong tranche, the company held a GrabCar Caravan that has already onboarded around 4,000 drivers.
\nThe other alleviatory efforts are comprised of tech enhancements designed to improve the reliability of the service. One area is the augmentation of an airport-dedicated fleet to meet the increased number of holiday travelers to and from terminals. A separate vertical, Airport to Anywhere, sees a dedicated fleet of cars parked at the airport. Grab is \u201cramping up\u201d the complement by two times to better and more quickly address the passenger surge. The service features fixed upfront fares and is surge-fee-free. Its fare matrix is similar to the already familiar yellow taxis that wait at terminals.
\nAnother tech solution is called Multi-Type Taxi (MTT) booking, which allows the booking of a ride more quickly. Rather than switching manually through various types of services, MTT users can tick different ride types, and the app will more quickly choose what is available. Mr. Roda explained that MTT can reduce \u201callocation time by 20% to 30%,\u201d as well as save the user from multiple clicks.
\nGrab is also employing a carrot-and-stick method to encourage its drivers to more readily accept bookings \u2014 even during peak hours. Those with a penchant for logging off or turning off the app will be penalized with a \u201ctime out,\u201d locking them out of the app for progressively longer durations if they refuse to accept, or cherry-pick, rides. Meanwhile, those who deign to drive amid more difficult times and at more congested locations can be rewarded with incentives.
\n\u201cThe carrots and sticks are there to assure quality,\u201d stressed Mr. Roda.
\nFinally, GrabShare has been made to \u201cferry more passengers per car more than ever\u201d through more efficient matching of people in closer proximity to each other. During this period, it comes with a \u201cmatch guarantee\u201d fallback to a discounted GrabCar should the app fail to find the commuter a GrabShare match. And the \u201croute is fixed after passengers are matched to a driver,\u201d removing \u201csurprise detours and stops.\u201d\u201cThe experience of our passengers, consumers, and partners on Grab is our utmost priority,\u201d Mr. Roda said, maintaining that Grab leverages its data, platform, and technology to understand and foresee the challenges faced by stakeholders. \u201cEvery Filipino should be able to partake in the long-lasting holiday festivities with the help and support of Grab\u2019s mobility services.\u201d
\nFinally, Grab is also bannering its recent acquisition of \u201chomegrown two-wheel ride-hailing company\u201d Move It to even more keenly \u201chelp address the demand of holiday commuters for safe, efficient, and honest transportation.\u201d
\n", "content_text": "1 of 3\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Grab Philippine Chief Operating Officer Ronald Roda (left) with Move It General Manager Wayne Jacinto \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n At the busy Grab Driver Center in Marikina City \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n COURTESY OF GRAB PHILIPPINES\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nAmid surge in demand, exec promises better ride supply\nTHE PROTRACTED holiday season in the Philippines typically see an uptick (make that huge uptick) in vehicle traffic as Christmas draws nearer. More people are out with greater frequency as they rush to meet their shopping and gift requirements (and requests). They are out more times, and longer.\nFor ride-hailing customers, this time of the year also means longer wait times to book that vehicle \u2014 that is, if you get one at all. This is a cyclical phenomenon, said Grab Philippines Chief Operating Officer Ronald Roda in a recent presser, with GrabCar demand expected to shoot up by at least 20% this month, with a high of 45% to 50% on the second and third weeks. Pressed for absolute numbers by \u201cVelocity,\u201d Mr. Roda said the company cannot declare these as a matter of corporate policy.\nHe, however, admitted that, for good or for bad, Grab will be judged for the way it addresses the expected commuter surge, amid the aforementioned traffic over these crucial two weeks. Its plan, therefore, is to roll out insightful strategies to ensure a \u201cseamless holiday experience for holiday commuters\u201d that will optimize its fleet.\n\u201cThere is absolutely, no excuse,\u201d Mr. Roda stressed.\nCompared to pre-pandemic numbers, current ridership is still lagging behind \u2014 owing to the fact that customer needs have evolved. While going to the office was previously ranked first among the reasons to book a Grab, the present situation of increased remote working has seen leisure take its place as the top reason. \u201cWe are still about at 85% the pre-pandemic demand,\u201d revealed the executive.\nOn the plus side, there is more supply of ride-hailing vehicles this year, thanks to the Department of Transportation and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board opening more slots (4,000 in January, 10,300 in April, and 10,200 in August). The present Grab fleet, per Mr. Roda, is 40% more than last year\u2019s number. The total GrabCar supply is comprised of some 30,000 vehicles.\nAs part of a 10,000-strong tranche, the company held a GrabCar Caravan that has already onboarded around 4,000 drivers.\nThe other alleviatory efforts are comprised of tech enhancements designed to improve the reliability of the service. One area is the augmentation of an airport-dedicated fleet to meet the increased number of holiday travelers to and from terminals. A separate vertical, Airport to Anywhere, sees a dedicated fleet of cars parked at the airport. Grab is \u201cramping up\u201d the complement by two times to better and more quickly address the passenger surge. The service features fixed upfront fares and is surge-fee-free. Its fare matrix is similar to the already familiar yellow taxis that wait at terminals.\nAnother tech solution is called Multi-Type Taxi (MTT) booking, which allows the booking of a ride more quickly. Rather than switching manually through various types of services, MTT users can tick different ride types, and the app will more quickly choose what is available. Mr. Roda explained that MTT can reduce \u201callocation time by 20% to 30%,\u201d as well as save the user from multiple clicks.\nGrab is also employing a carrot-and-stick method to encourage its drivers to more readily accept bookings \u2014 even during peak hours. Those with a penchant for logging off or turning off the app will be penalized with a \u201ctime out,\u201d locking them out of the app for progressively longer durations if they refuse to accept, or cherry-pick, rides. Meanwhile, those who deign to drive amid more difficult times and at more congested locations can be rewarded with incentives.\n\u201cThe carrots and sticks are there to assure quality,\u201d stressed Mr. Roda.\nFinally, GrabShare has been made to \u201cferry more passengers per car more than ever\u201d through more efficient matching of people in closer proximity to each other. During this period, it comes with a \u201cmatch guarantee\u201d fallback to a discounted GrabCar should the app fail to find the commuter a GrabShare match. And the \u201croute is fixed after passengers are matched to a driver,\u201d removing \u201csurprise detours and stops.\u201d\u201cThe experience of our passengers, consumers, and partners on Grab is our utmost priority,\u201d Mr. Roda said, maintaining that Grab leverages its data, platform, and technology to understand and foresee the challenges faced by stakeholders. \u201cEvery Filipino should be able to partake in the long-lasting holiday festivities with the help and support of Grab\u2019s mobility services.\u201d\nFinally, Grab is also bannering its recent acquisition of \u201chomegrown two-wheel ride-hailing company\u201d Move It to even more keenly \u201chelp address the demand of holiday commuters for safe, efficient, and honest transportation.\u201d", "date_published": "2023-12-18T00:04:35+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-17T14:30:52+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_image1-1.jpg", "tags": [ "Featured2", "Kap Maceda Aguila", "Talk Box", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ], "summary": "THE PROTRACTED holiday season in the Philippines typically see an uptick (make that huge uptick) in vehicle traffic as Christmas draws nearer. More people are out with greater frequency as they rush to meet their shopping and gift requirements (and requests). They are out more times, and longer." }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=563935", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/18/563935/bpi-loans-marketplace-the-one-stop-portal-for-loans/", "title": "BPI Loans Marketplace: The one-stop portal for loans", "content_html": "By Angel Rivero
\nTHERE WAS a time when applying for a car loan required a lot more effort, mental preparedness, and nerve. Among the common challenges associated with the traditional method of loan applications were queues, the back and forth of requirements, long waiting times for the outcome, and even getting to the physical venues for these transactions to be made in the first place. Fortunately, the digital age has democratized not only the purchasing of plane tickets and booking of hotels, but also the application of loans, it appears. And BPI (the 172-year-old Bank of the Philippine Islands) is leading this digital transformation in the realm of bank loans, via the recently launched BPI Loans Marketplace.
\nThe BPI Loans Marketplace is a one-stop shop for browsing and applying for loans for the purchase of properties and cars. It is accessible via the website: https://loansmarketplace.bpi.com.ph. And of course, being online, it is available for interested clients to visit anytime, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. That makes a huge difference in terms of convenience, and provides the added comfort of allowing clients to take all the sweet time they need when they want to compare the featured cars from partner car brands, or when they want to experiment with different loan schemes depending on different down payment options and lengths of loan periods.
\nBPI\u2019s Head of Retail Loans Dennis Fronda was keen to explain at the media event: \u201cAs we launch BPI Loans Marketplace, we are not just introducing a platform; we are redefining the way our clients experience loan applications for properties and cars. Our commitment to innovation, transparency, and customer satisfaction is at the forefront of this initiative.\u201d He also furthered that the BPI Loans Marketplace is primarily designed to empower clients, \u201cproviding them with the tools and information they need to make informed decisions about their financial future.\u201d
\n![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_image5-1.jpg\")
BPI executives also explained the advantages of using the new platform. Among them is the \u201creal-time\u201d availability of the featured cars which customers can browse \u2014\u00a0 because a designated number of vehicles is already allotted for inclusion in the website. Therefore, clients have better chances of getting their desired cars as soon as possible. Clients can also directly compare the cost of different payment schemes, as there is a standalone calculator that can be used to compare the difference between varying down payment percentages and payment terms. There are also special features on the website, such as the Compare and Sort and Filter options, which enable side-by-side comparisons and targeted searches based on attributes such as car brand, location, and price range.
\nOf course, the BPI Loans Marketplace is also accessible on portable devices, so customers can browse the website anywhere they are, even while traveling. And as there is an array of payment solutions available, clients may also course any questions that they might have to the BPI Loans Marketplace\u2019s dedicated online support team. The bank promises that their online team will be ready to revert with prompt responses.
\n", "content_text": "By Angel Rivero\nTHERE WAS a time when applying for a car loan required a lot more effort, mental preparedness, and nerve. Among the common challenges associated with the traditional method of loan applications were queues, the back and forth of requirements, long waiting times for the outcome, and even getting to the physical venues for these transactions to be made in the first place. Fortunately, the digital age has democratized not only the purchasing of plane tickets and booking of hotels, but also the application of loans, it appears. And BPI (the 172-year-old Bank of the Philippine Islands) is leading this digital transformation in the realm of bank loans, via the recently launched BPI Loans Marketplace.\nThe BPI Loans Marketplace is a one-stop shop for browsing and applying for loans for the purchase of properties and cars. It is accessible via the website: https://loansmarketplace.bpi.com.ph. And of course, being online, it is available for interested clients to visit anytime, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. That makes a huge difference in terms of convenience, and provides the added comfort of allowing clients to take all the sweet time they need when they want to compare the featured cars from partner car brands, or when they want to experiment with different loan schemes depending on different down payment options and lengths of loan periods.\nBPI\u2019s Head of Retail Loans Dennis Fronda was keen to explain at the media event: \u201cAs we launch BPI Loans Marketplace, we are not just introducing a platform; we are redefining the way our clients experience loan applications for properties and cars. Our commitment to innovation, transparency, and customer satisfaction is at the forefront of this initiative.\u201d He also furthered that the BPI Loans Marketplace is primarily designed to empower clients, \u201cproviding them with the tools and information they need to make informed decisions about their financial future.\u201d\nThe landing page of BPI Loans Marketplace highlights several areas for loan seekers. \u2014 IMAGE FROM BPI\nBPI executives also explained the advantages of using the new platform. Among them is the \u201creal-time\u201d availability of the featured cars which customers can browse \u2014\u00a0 because a designated number of vehicles is already allotted for inclusion in the website. Therefore, clients have better chances of getting their desired cars as soon as possible. Clients can also directly compare the cost of different payment schemes, as there is a standalone calculator that can be used to compare the difference between varying down payment percentages and payment terms. There are also special features on the website, such as the Compare and Sort and Filter options, which enable side-by-side comparisons and targeted searches based on attributes such as car brand, location, and price range.\nOf course, the BPI Loans Marketplace is also accessible on portable devices, so customers can browse the website anywhere they are, even while traveling. And as there is an array of payment solutions available, clients may also course any questions that they might have to the BPI Loans Marketplace\u2019s dedicated online support team. The bank promises that their online team will be ready to revert with prompt responses.", "date_published": "2023-12-18T00:03:34+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-17T14:28:09+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_image4-1.jpg", "tags": [ "Angel Rivero", "Featured2", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ], "summary": "THERE WAS a time when applying for a car loan required a lot more effort, mental preparedness, and nerve." }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=563925", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/18/563925/geely-philippines-distributor-gets-new-chief/", "title": "Geely Philippines distributor gets new chief", "content_html": "GEELY country distributor Sojitz G Auto Philippines (SGAP) recently announced the appointment of Naoyuki Takeda as its new president and CEO \u2014 to assume office on Jan. 1, 2024.
\nIn a release, SGAP said, \u201cTakeda brings with him an extensive background and experience in the Philippine automotive industry, marking a pivotal moment in SGAP\u2019s journey in the country\u2019s fast-evolving automotive landscape. Takeda has been an integral part of the automotive sphere at Sojitz for quite a long time.\u201d
\nPrior to his new role, Mr. Takeda \u201cplayed a pivotal role\u201d at MMPC Auto Financial Services and JACCS Finance Philippines for over six years until 2022. He is seen as having a comprehensive understanding of the automotive industry, which makes him \u201ca seasoned expert capable of navigating the challenges and opportunities in the Philippine market.\u201d
\nSaid Geely Automobile International Corp. (GAIC) Regional Sales Director Will Wan when he visited the Philippines to welcome the executive, \u201cMr. Takeda\u2019s appointment as President and CEO of SGAP marks an exciting new era for Geely in the Philippines. His wealth of experience and strategic vision will be key in realizing our aspiration to introduce exciting models tailored to fit the evolving Filipino auto market.\u201d
\nFor his part, Mr. Takeda remarked, \u201cI am honored to lead SGAP into this new era of growth and innovation. With the support of GAIC and our dedicated team, we look forward to introducing cutting-edge mobility solutions that will bring exceptional automotive experiences for the Filipinos while we will continue improving our customer service.\u201d
\nHe also expressed gratitude to outgoing SGAP President and CEO Yugo Kiyofuji, stating, \u201cI am grateful for Mr. Kiyofuji\u2019s contributions as he leaves SGAP to focus on other aspects of the auto business in (the) Sojitz headquarters in Tokyo where his distinct management capabilities are required. He has completed his mission in SGAP in a very short time, making vast improvements in the organization, particularly in various systems processes and parts availability.\u201d
\n", "content_text": "GEELY country distributor Sojitz G Auto Philippines (SGAP) recently announced the appointment of Naoyuki Takeda as its new president and CEO \u2014 to assume office on Jan. 1, 2024.\nIn a release, SGAP said, \u201cTakeda brings with him an extensive background and experience in the Philippine automotive industry, marking a pivotal moment in SGAP\u2019s journey in the country\u2019s fast-evolving automotive landscape. Takeda has been an integral part of the automotive sphere at Sojitz for quite a long time.\u201d\nPrior to his new role, Mr. Takeda \u201cplayed a pivotal role\u201d at MMPC Auto Financial Services and JACCS Finance Philippines for over six years until 2022. He is seen as having a comprehensive understanding of the automotive industry, which makes him \u201ca seasoned expert capable of navigating the challenges and opportunities in the Philippine market.\u201d\nSaid Geely Automobile International Corp. (GAIC) Regional Sales Director Will Wan when he visited the Philippines to welcome the executive, \u201cMr. Takeda\u2019s appointment as President and CEO of SGAP marks an exciting new era for Geely in the Philippines. His wealth of experience and strategic vision will be key in realizing our aspiration to introduce exciting models tailored to fit the evolving Filipino auto market.\u201d\nFor his part, Mr. Takeda remarked, \u201cI am honored to lead SGAP into this new era of growth and innovation. With the support of GAIC and our dedicated team, we look forward to introducing cutting-edge mobility solutions that will bring exceptional automotive experiences for the Filipinos while we will continue improving our customer service.\u201d\nHe also expressed gratitude to outgoing SGAP President and CEO Yugo Kiyofuji, stating, \u201cI am grateful for Mr. Kiyofuji\u2019s contributions as he leaves SGAP to focus on other aspects of the auto business in (the) Sojitz headquarters in Tokyo where his distinct management capabilities are required. He has completed his mission in SGAP in a very short time, making vast improvements in the organization, particularly in various systems processes and parts availability.\u201d", "date_published": "2023-12-18T00:02:55+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-17T14:27:06+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image6-1.jpg", "tags": [ "Dashboard", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=563924", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/18/563924/jetour-ice-cream-ev-up-for-grabs-in-megaworld-raffle/", "title": "Jetour Ice Cream EV up for grabs in Megaworld raffle", "content_html": "JETOUR AUTO PHILIPPINES and Megaworld Lifestyle Malls have partnered for a Christmas promo that gifts a brand-new Jetour Ice Cream electric vehicle to a lucky shopper through the \u201cMegaworld 12 Gifts of Christmas\u201d raffle.
\nFrom Dec. 11 to 22, 2023, shoppers at Megaworld\u2019s Southwoods Mall who make a single or accumulated purchase of P2,000 at any of its stores will be entitled to one raffle coupon. There will be 12 raffle prizes, with winners to be drawn on Dec. 23.
\n\u201cJetour and Megaworld\u2019s desire to bring cheer and joy this Christmas season goes beyond the holidays as we begin a new chapter of cooperation between our brands,\u201d shared Jetour Auto Philippines Managing Director Miguelito Jose. \u201cThroughout 2024, Megaworld patrons will see more of Jetour\u2019s stunning and desirable lineup at Lifestyle Malls. By bringing Jetour closer to the car buyer, we are making it easier for more Filipinos to drive home a sustainable mobility partner that will support their lifestyles.\u201d
\nThe Jetour Ice Cream EV will also be displayed at the ground level of Megaworld Southwoods Mall and the Venice Grand Canal Mall at Upper McKinley Hill in Taguig City from Dec. 11 to 23, as part of the \u201cMegaworld 12 Gifts of Christmas\u201d promotion.
\nThe Jetour Ice Cream EV is a proper four-seat, city-based, everyday electric vehicle with comfort amenities such as air-conditioning, electric power steering, and contoured seats for four. It also has safety features such as a driver\u2019s side air bag, an anti-lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution, three-point seat belts for all four passengers, Isofix mounting points, and a rear reversing camera. It has a range of up to 170 kilometers, and its 13.9-kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack can be safely charged from zero to 100% at home in as little as eight hours using a standard household outlet.
\nAt P699,000, the Ice Cream EV has a three-year/100,000-km vehicle warranty, and a \u201ccategory-leading\u201d eight-year/120,000-km battery pack warranty \u2014 not to mention \u201csolid after-sales support\u201d through Jetour Auto Philippines\u2019 expansive 16-dealership nationwide network.
\n", "content_text": "JETOUR AUTO PHILIPPINES and Megaworld Lifestyle Malls have partnered for a Christmas promo that gifts a brand-new Jetour Ice Cream electric vehicle to a lucky shopper through the \u201cMegaworld 12 Gifts of Christmas\u201d raffle.\nFrom Dec. 11 to 22, 2023, shoppers at Megaworld\u2019s Southwoods Mall who make a single or accumulated purchase of P2,000 at any of its stores will be entitled to one raffle coupon. There will be 12 raffle prizes, with winners to be drawn on Dec. 23.\n\u201cJetour and Megaworld\u2019s desire to bring cheer and joy this Christmas season goes beyond the holidays as we begin a new chapter of cooperation between our brands,\u201d shared Jetour Auto Philippines Managing Director Miguelito Jose. \u201cThroughout 2024, Megaworld patrons will see more of Jetour\u2019s stunning and desirable lineup at Lifestyle Malls. By bringing Jetour closer to the car buyer, we are making it easier for more Filipinos to drive home a sustainable mobility partner that will support their lifestyles.\u201d\nThe Jetour Ice Cream EV will also be displayed at the ground level of Megaworld Southwoods Mall and the Venice Grand Canal Mall at Upper McKinley Hill in Taguig City from Dec. 11 to 23, as part of the \u201cMegaworld 12 Gifts of Christmas\u201d promotion.\nThe Jetour Ice Cream EV is a proper four-seat, city-based, everyday electric vehicle with comfort amenities such as air-conditioning, electric power steering, and contoured seats for four. It also has safety features such as a driver\u2019s side air bag, an anti-lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution, three-point seat belts for all four passengers, Isofix mounting points, and a rear reversing camera. It has a range of up to 170 kilometers, and its 13.9-kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack can be safely charged from zero to 100% at home in as little as eight hours using a standard household outlet.\nAt P699,000, the Ice Cream EV has a three-year/100,000-km vehicle warranty, and a \u201ccategory-leading\u201d eight-year/120,000-km battery pack warranty \u2014 not to mention \u201csolid after-sales support\u201d through Jetour Auto Philippines\u2019 expansive 16-dealership nationwide network.", "date_published": "2023-12-18T00:01:52+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-17T14:26:42+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image9.jpg", "tags": [ "Dashboard", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=562469", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/11/562469/seltos-sets-the-scene/", "title": "Seltos sets the scene", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\nBy Dylan Afuang
\nIT MAY have been introduced just weeks ago, but the reskinned and retooled Seltos already represents Kia Philippines\u2019 plans for next year.
\nLed by the Ayala Corp.\u2019s automotive division, the local arm of the South Korean car maker in 2024 intends to deviate further from the public\u2019s perception that the brand centers only on affordable products.
\nInstead, Kia Philippines embarks to capture an aspirational appeal through various marketing initiatives and offerings \u2014 its network of dealerships adopting a new corporate identity, while providing upscale customer experiences along with its lineup of stylish and modern vehicles.
\nBelonging to the latter category is this updated compact crossover \u2014 the first of five new cars which include Kia\u2019s electrified vehicles and the battery-electric EV5 that the company plans to introduce by 2024.
\nIf Kia\u2019s goal is realized, the Seltos and its stablemates that follow should immensely resonate with buyers\u2019 hearts and budgets in equal measure.
\nThe brand\u2019s aspirations and plans were announced by AC Motors Automobile Group President Antonio \u201cToti\u201d Zara III, in a gathering that unveiled the new Seltos to the media and representatives of local Kia dealerships. Kia Philippines Chief Operating Officer Brian Buendia and AC Motors Chief Executive Officer Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala also graced the occasion.
\n\u201cLoaded with standout style, latest technology, advanced driver assistance systems, and enthusiastic performance, the Seltos is in a league of its own,\u201d Mr. Buendia boasted of the updated crossover that was first introduced locally in 2020.
\nThree versions of the Seltos are now on sale, with the range led by the 1.4 Turbo SX (P1.688 million), followed by the 1.5 EX (P1.288 million), and the 1.5 LX (P1.198 million).
\nStyling tweaks applied to the crossover include a reshaped grille and headlights, and 17-inch alloy wheels featuring split-spoke alloys. The most distinctive change can be found at the rear end, where separate taillight assemblies on the previous model are replaced by a rear light bar that spans the entire width of the car\u2019s rear.
\nThe SX model sports a 1.4-liter turbocharged gas engine, dishing out 140hp and 242Nm of torque combined with a seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission driving the front wheels \u2014 propelling the car from zero to 100kph in a quoted 9.7 seconds.
\nLX and EX trims, meanwhile, feature a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter gas mill, with 115hp and 144Nm of torque and is mated to an intelligent variable transmission (IVT).
\nThe feature set of the Seltos is significantly improved inside. For example, the SX gets a wireless device charger, ambient interior lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and a full panoramic display. Six SRS air bags, Smart Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, and Parking Distance Warning are features of the top-tier SX model.
\nBut Kia Philippines\u2019 upmarket realignment doesn\u2019t stop with the Seltos, as Mr. Zara expressed.
\n\u201c(The year) 2024 will be an exciting year,\u201d the executive continued. \u201cWe are coming in with four new models. (A number of these models) will come either as full-electric vehicles or hybrid-electric vehicles.\u201d
\nAs Mr. Zara confirmed only the launch of the EV5, he said, \u201cIt will be consistent with the Ayala Corp.\u2019s strategy of moving the industry towards electrified mobility, as (it builds) an EV ecosystem.\u201d
\nAccording to Mr. Zara, the Philippine car industry by 2024 anticipates surpassing the record 473,943 units achieved in 2017. About 14,000 of these, or three percent of industry sales overall, are predicted to be electrified. AC Motors \u2014 which also handles Chinese EV manufacturer BYD here \u2014 surely wants to contribute significantly to those lofty figures.
\nOnce it arrives, the EV5 compact SUV will be retailed alongside the EV6 in the local Kia lineup. No details on the EV5 for the Philippine market were divulged, but in the Chinese market, the vehicle is quoted to feature 64- and 88-kWh battery packs with the latter achieving a range of 720km per charge, as well as regenerative braking functionality.
\n", "content_text": "1 of 5\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Three variants of the Kia Seltos are available: 1.4 Turbo SX (P1.688 million), 1.5 EX (P1.288 million), and the 1.5 LX (P1.198 million). \u2014 PHOTO BY DYLAN AFUANG\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY DYLAN AFUANG\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY DYLAN AFUANG\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY DYLAN AFUANG\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Flanking the new Kia Selos are (from left) Kia Philippines COO Brian Buendia, AC Motors Automobile Group President Antonio \u2018Toti\u2019 Zara III, and AC Motors Chief Executive Officer Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala. \u2014 PHOTO FROM KIA PHILIPPINES\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nKia PHL updates crossover model, announces rollout of electrified vehicles in 2024\nBy Dylan Afuang\nIT MAY have been introduced just weeks ago, but the reskinned and retooled Seltos already represents Kia Philippines\u2019 plans for next year.\nLed by the Ayala Corp.\u2019s automotive division, the local arm of the South Korean car maker in 2024 intends to deviate further from the public\u2019s perception that the brand centers only on affordable products.\nInstead, Kia Philippines embarks to capture an aspirational appeal through various marketing initiatives and offerings \u2014 its network of dealerships adopting a new corporate identity, while providing upscale customer experiences along with its lineup of stylish and modern vehicles.\nBelonging to the latter category is this updated compact crossover \u2014 the first of five new cars which include Kia\u2019s electrified vehicles and the battery-electric EV5 that the company plans to introduce by 2024.\nIf Kia\u2019s goal is realized, the Seltos and its stablemates that follow should immensely resonate with buyers\u2019 hearts and budgets in equal measure.\nThe brand\u2019s aspirations and plans were announced by AC Motors Automobile Group President Antonio \u201cToti\u201d Zara III, in a gathering that unveiled the new Seltos to the media and representatives of local Kia dealerships. Kia Philippines Chief Operating Officer Brian Buendia and AC Motors Chief Executive Officer Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala also graced the occasion.\n\u201cLoaded with standout style, latest technology, advanced driver assistance systems, and enthusiastic performance, the Seltos is in a league of its own,\u201d Mr. Buendia boasted of the updated crossover that was first introduced locally in 2020.\nThree versions of the Seltos are now on sale, with the range led by the 1.4 Turbo SX (P1.688 million), followed by the 1.5 EX (P1.288 million), and the 1.5 LX (P1.198 million).\nStyling tweaks applied to the crossover include a reshaped grille and headlights, and 17-inch alloy wheels featuring split-spoke alloys. The most distinctive change can be found at the rear end, where separate taillight assemblies on the previous model are replaced by a rear light bar that spans the entire width of the car\u2019s rear.\nThe SX model sports a 1.4-liter turbocharged gas engine, dishing out 140hp and 242Nm of torque combined with a seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission driving the front wheels \u2014 propelling the car from zero to 100kph in a quoted 9.7 seconds.\nLX and EX trims, meanwhile, feature a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter gas mill, with 115hp and 144Nm of torque and is mated to an intelligent variable transmission (IVT).\nThe feature set of the Seltos is significantly improved inside. For example, the SX gets a wireless device charger, ambient interior lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and a full panoramic display. Six SRS air bags, Smart Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, and Parking Distance Warning are features of the top-tier SX model.\nBut Kia Philippines\u2019 upmarket realignment doesn\u2019t stop with the Seltos, as Mr. Zara expressed.\n\u201c(The year) 2024 will be an exciting year,\u201d the executive continued. \u201cWe are coming in with four new models. (A number of these models) will come either as full-electric vehicles or hybrid-electric vehicles.\u201d\nAs Mr. Zara confirmed only the launch of the EV5, he said, \u201cIt will be consistent with the Ayala Corp.\u2019s strategy of moving the industry towards electrified mobility, as (it builds) an EV ecosystem.\u201d\nAccording to Mr. Zara, the Philippine car industry by 2024 anticipates surpassing the record 473,943 units achieved in 2017. About 14,000 of these, or three percent of industry sales overall, are predicted to be electrified. AC Motors \u2014 which also handles Chinese EV manufacturer BYD here \u2014 surely wants to contribute significantly to those lofty figures. \nOnce it arrives, the EV5 compact SUV will be retailed alongside the EV6 in the local Kia lineup. No details on the EV5 for the Philippine market were divulged, but in the Chinese market, the vehicle is quoted to feature 64- and 88-kWh battery packs with the latter achieving a range of 720km per charge, as well as regenerative braking functionality.", "date_published": "2023-12-11T00:07:49+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-10T14:34:10+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image1.jpg", "tags": [ "Dylan Afuang", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ], "summary": "IT MAY have been introduced just weeks ago, but the reskinned and retooled Seltos already represents Kia Philippines\u2019 plans for next year." }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=562468", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/11/562468/china-chongqing-changan-part-2-growth-over-growth/", "title": "China, Chongqing, Changan (Part 2): Growth over growth", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\nOUR CHANGAN AUTO brand experience in China was a clear flexing of muscles for the Chongqing-headquartered automaker.
\nWhile it is steadily growing its portfolio here to earn a place as a legitimate option to meet what most car browsers are looking for, Changan also served notice that it can enter even more segments and price points should it decide our market is ready for them.
\nIn the Changan universe are sub-brands Deepal (or Shenlan, purveying electric vehicles), Avatr (its premium EV line with joint investor CATL, the world\u2019s leading battery manufacturer), Changan Qiyuan (electric vehicle line under the Changan brand), Changan Uni (ICE-powered vehicles), Oshan (mid-level SUVs and MPVs), and Kaicene (commercial vehicles).
\nTo note here is that while Changan is the biggest ICE player in China, it already is making lots of headway in the electric vehicle department and, in fact, is dedicating a couple of sub-brands to the effort.
\nFor Inchcape Philippines, the key to rolling out Changan models \u2014 and ultimately, brands \u2014 is that its dealership network can support the vehicles in terms of after-sales service. \u201cWe should be able to support what we sell,\u201d declared Changan Auto Philippines General Manager Maricar Parco (See our interview with her on the right).
\nFor now, Changan Auto Philippines has 19 3S dealerships \u2014 a number that will increase to 30 by 2024\u2019s end. This number takes into account two company-owned facilities, including the flagship dealership to rise along Libis in the second quarter (the second is in a yet-to-be-determined location in NCR).
\nIn China, the girth of the company is on full display \u2014 from the sweeping views and large footprint of the Dianjiang test site, smooth-running factory of Liangjiang, and the multi-brand test session we had (although a little too abbreviated). The messaging is clear in that Changan wants to be taken seriously \u2014 certainly as its so-called Vast Ocean plan takes effect. This basically looks at exponentially growing Changan\u2019s market outside of China \u2014 to the tune of 1.2 million cars by 2030.
\nMessage received.
\n", "content_text": "1 of 4\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The Changan Hunter pickup\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n A Changan showroom in China \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n It may not be a question of if but when we\u2019ll be seeing the Avatr premium electric brand of Changan in the Philippines.\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The Philippine delegation at the Liangjiang plant of Changan Auto in Chongqing\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nOUR CHANGAN AUTO brand experience in China was a clear flexing of muscles for the Chongqing-headquartered automaker.\nWhile it is steadily growing its portfolio here to earn a place as a legitimate option to meet what most car browsers are looking for, Changan also served notice that it can enter even more segments and price points should it decide our market is ready for them.\nIn the Changan universe are sub-brands Deepal (or Shenlan, purveying electric vehicles), Avatr (its premium EV line with joint investor CATL, the world\u2019s leading battery manufacturer), Changan Qiyuan (electric vehicle line under the Changan brand), Changan Uni (ICE-powered vehicles), Oshan (mid-level SUVs and MPVs), and Kaicene (commercial vehicles).\nTo note here is that while Changan is the biggest ICE player in China, it already is making lots of headway in the electric vehicle department and, in fact, is dedicating a couple of sub-brands to the effort.\nFor Inchcape Philippines, the key to rolling out Changan models \u2014 and ultimately, brands \u2014 is that its dealership network can support the vehicles in terms of after-sales service. \u201cWe should be able to support what we sell,\u201d declared Changan Auto Philippines General Manager Maricar Parco (See our interview with her on the right).\nFor now, Changan Auto Philippines has 19 3S dealerships \u2014 a number that will increase to 30 by 2024\u2019s end. This number takes into account two company-owned facilities, including the flagship dealership to rise along Libis in the second quarter (the second is in a yet-to-be-determined location in NCR).\nIn China, the girth of the company is on full display \u2014 from the sweeping views and large footprint of the Dianjiang test site, smooth-running factory of Liangjiang, and the multi-brand test session we had (although a little too abbreviated). The messaging is clear in that Changan wants to be taken seriously \u2014 certainly as its so-called Vast Ocean plan takes effect. This basically looks at exponentially growing Changan\u2019s market outside of China \u2014 to the tune of 1.2 million cars by 2030.\nMessage received.", "date_published": "2023-12-11T00:06:48+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-10T14:24:44+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_TOP_image1.jpg", "tags": [ "Featured2", "Kap Maceda Aguila", "Talk Box", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=562467", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/11/562467/qa-the-whole-brand-portfolio-is-available-for-us/", "title": "Q&A: \u2018The whole brand portfolio is available for us\u2019", "content_html": "Interview by Kap Maceda Aguila
\nWhat\u2019s the reason behind this trip to Chongqing?
\nThe reason why we brought our dealer partners and also our media friends is for everyone to be immersed in the brand. The best way to do that is to come to the headquarters, the home of Changan, and have a lot of seat time with the products. That\u2019s really what drives the brand.
\nWhat is the core message?
\nAll we want to say is that Changan Auto has all these product offerings and is a very good option for all the motorists out there. We want people to check us out; Changan Auto is a very good brand and is one of the top four brands in China. And now, they\u2019ve decided to get out of (purely) domestic activities and get into sharing the product portfolio more aggressively outside of the country. It\u2019s a vast range of products. So I\u2019d say we have one for everyone \u2014 from the price-sensitive market to the more discerning drivers; from the ICE products to EVs. We have the whole product line. We have just relaunched in the Philippines, highlighting ICE offerings and previewed our Deepal EV line, just to show the possibilities of what Changan can bring into the market. We want to invite the Filipino motoring public to test-drive and see for themselves. We can talk about the specifications, but at the end of the day, it\u2019s all about how you feel when you drive the vehicle, and what suits the lifestyle \u2014 from sedans, to SUVS, to pickups \u2014 even to EVs.
\nNoting the diverse lineup of Changan, what are the value propositions of the brand \u2014 things you want to put out there? To a large extent, Filipinos are now receptive to China brands. The challenge I think is to stand out from the pack.
\nI think this is the reason people really have to visit our showrooms and test-drive our vehicles, because it\u2019s not simply about pricing or value proposition. I\u2019m really very confident that these will exceed people\u2019s expectations. What is standard in some of the higher-priced vehicles of other brands comes standard with ours. The smart technologies are there across the line, and the driving dynamics are something I\u2019m really proud of.
\nWe\u2019ve tested several vehicles here \u2014 notably the Avatr 11 \u2014 that are not in the Philippines yet. That begs the question, how soon can we see these products in our country?
\nThat\u2019s the beauty of this partnership between Changan and Inchcape. The whole brand portfolio of Changan Auto is available for Inchcape Philippines. Again, we introduced the Changan ICE vehicles and previewed the Deepal which we hope to introduce as soon as next year. And because of the proximity of China to the country, we can get our vehicles quite quickly, and it\u2019s really just a matter of having the business proposition approved. We\u2019d be very happy to bring in the flagship brand, the Avatr to the country. We\u2019ll keep you posted. EVs are inevitable, soon enough, we\u2019d love to bring those in. That\u2019s another reason we brought in our dealer partners. If they tell us they need this, we\u2019ll go. We\u2019re interested in hearing feedback as to what the Philippine market would be attuned to. All these possibilities are there.
\n", "content_text": "In China, Changan Auto Philippines GM Maricar Parco talks about brand positioning, and what the Filipino market can expect\nInterview by Kap Maceda Aguila\nWhat\u2019s the reason behind this trip to Chongqing?\nThe reason why we brought our dealer partners and also our media friends is for everyone to be immersed in the brand. The best way to do that is to come to the headquarters, the home of Changan, and have a lot of seat time with the products. That\u2019s really what drives the brand.\nWhat is the core message?\nAll we want to say is that Changan Auto has all these product offerings and is a very good option for all the motorists out there. We want people to check us out; Changan Auto is a very good brand and is one of the top four brands in China. And now, they\u2019ve decided to get out of (purely) domestic activities and get into sharing the product portfolio more aggressively outside of the country. It\u2019s a vast range of products. So I\u2019d say we have one for everyone \u2014 from the price-sensitive market to the more discerning drivers; from the ICE products to EVs. We have the whole product line. We have just relaunched in the Philippines, highlighting ICE offerings and previewed our Deepal EV line, just to show the possibilities of what Changan can bring into the market. We want to invite the Filipino motoring public to test-drive and see for themselves. We can talk about the specifications, but at the end of the day, it\u2019s all about how you feel when you drive the vehicle, and what suits the lifestyle \u2014 from sedans, to SUVS, to pickups \u2014 even to EVs.\nNoting the diverse lineup of Changan, what are the value propositions of the brand \u2014 things you want to put out there? To a large extent, Filipinos are now receptive to China brands. The challenge I think is to stand out from the pack.\nI think this is the reason people really have to visit our showrooms and test-drive our vehicles, because it\u2019s not simply about pricing or value proposition. I\u2019m really very confident that these will exceed people\u2019s expectations. What is standard in some of the higher-priced vehicles of other brands comes standard with ours. The smart technologies are there across the line, and the driving dynamics are something I\u2019m really proud of.\nWe\u2019ve tested several vehicles here \u2014 notably the Avatr 11 \u2014 that are not in the Philippines yet. That begs the question, how soon can we see these products in our country?\nThat\u2019s the beauty of this partnership between Changan and Inchcape. The whole brand portfolio of Changan Auto is available for Inchcape Philippines. Again, we introduced the Changan ICE vehicles and previewed the Deepal which we hope to introduce as soon as next year. And because of the proximity of China to the country, we can get our vehicles quite quickly, and it\u2019s really just a matter of having the business proposition approved. We\u2019d be very happy to bring in the flagship brand, the Avatr to the country. We\u2019ll keep you posted. EVs are inevitable, soon enough, we\u2019d love to bring those in. That\u2019s another reason we brought in our dealer partners. If they tell us they need this, we\u2019ll go. We\u2019re interested in hearing feedback as to what the Philippine market would be attuned to. All these possibilities are there.", "date_published": "2023-12-11T00:05:47+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-10T14:31:48+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_TOP_image5.jpg", "tags": [ "Featured2", "Interview", "Kap Maceda Aguila", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ], "summary": "The reason why we brought our dealer partners and also our media friends is for everyone to be immersed in the brand. The best way to do that is to come to the headquarters, the home of Changan, and have a lot of seat time with the products. That\u2019s really what drives the brand." }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=562466", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/11/562466/industry-vet-is-new-jmc-and-peugeot-brand-chief/", "title": "Industry vet is new JMC and Peugeot brand chief", "content_html": "ASTARA PHILIPPINES, which distributes the GAC, JMC, and Peugeot brands in the country, announced the appointment of Arlan Reyes as the brand head for JMC and Peugeot.
\nMr. Reyes, who has more than 25 years of industry experience, will spearhead brand operations for JMC, the most recent addition to Astara\u2019s portfolio. He will oversee the brand\u2019s coming launch and direct its business operation strategies, in addition to initiatives for Peugeot.
\nSaid Astara Philippines Managing Director Raoul Picello, \u201cWe are thrilled to welcome Arlan to the Astara family. His rich experience and proven track record in the motoring industry make him the ideal leader for JMC and Peugeot under Astara Philippines. We look forward to achieving new milestones together and further solidifying our position as a key player in the automotive sector.\u201d
\nIn a release, Astara Philippines said it is steadfast in its commitment to provide exceptional vehicles and services to the Filipino customer, and the recent appointment of Mr. Reyes \u201cyet again underscores its determination to be the distributor of choice by prominent automotive brands.\u201d
\nMr. Picello added, \u201cOur new executive leadership team is integral to our enduring strategy designed to strengthen our standing as a prominent player in the local automotive landscape. We\u2019ve achieved remarkable success during our initial two years in the country, and our unwavering passion propels us toward even greater heights in 2023.\u201d
\n", "content_text": "ASTARA PHILIPPINES, which distributes the GAC, JMC, and Peugeot brands in the country, announced the appointment of Arlan Reyes as the brand head for JMC and Peugeot.\nMr. Reyes, who has more than 25 years of industry experience, will spearhead brand operations for JMC, the most recent addition to Astara\u2019s portfolio. He will oversee the brand\u2019s coming launch and direct its business operation strategies, in addition to initiatives for Peugeot.\nSaid Astara Philippines Managing Director Raoul Picello, \u201cWe are thrilled to welcome Arlan to the Astara family. His rich experience and proven track record in the motoring industry make him the ideal leader for JMC and Peugeot under Astara Philippines. We look forward to achieving new milestones together and further solidifying our position as a key player in the automotive sector.\u201d\nIn a release, Astara Philippines said it is steadfast in its commitment to provide exceptional vehicles and services to the Filipino customer, and the recent appointment of Mr. Reyes \u201cyet again underscores its determination to be the distributor of choice by prominent automotive brands.\u201d\nMr. Picello added, \u201cOur new executive leadership team is integral to our enduring strategy designed to strengthen our standing as a prominent player in the local automotive landscape. We\u2019ve achieved remarkable success during our initial two years in the country, and our unwavering passion propels us toward even greater heights in 2023.\u201d", "date_published": "2023-12-11T00:04:46+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-10T14:20:49+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image6.jpg", "tags": [ "Dashboard", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=562465", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/11/562465/seaoil-holds-lifetime-free-gas-promo-for-pricelocq-users/", "title": "Seaoil holds Lifetime Free Gas promo for PriceLocq users", "content_html": "SEAOIL rolls out its familiar Lifetime Free Gas (LFG) promo specifically for PriceLocq users, the brand\u2019s \u201cfuel-saving\u201d mobility app. Three motorists stand to win a lifetime supply of fuel. Also up for grabs are 15 Honda Beat Playful motorcycles and P10,000 worth of PriceLocq fuel vouchers.
\nThe LFG campaign for PriceLocq is ongoing and will run until Jan. 15, 2024. Participants must be 18 years old and above with a valid Philippine driver\u2019s license. To earn a raffle entry, motorists must purchase SeaoiI fuel, Lubeserv products, or avail of Lubeserv-on-Wheels services at Seaoil stations that accept PriceLocq as a mode of payment.
\nEvery P200 spent using the Pay with LocqPay or Pay with Liter Balance feature will earn motorists one raffle entry. The same rule applies for Lubeserv purchases or Lubeserv-on-Wheels services using the Pay with LocqPay option. Meanwhile, users who have a VIP account connected to PriceLocq only need to spend P100 on fuel or Lubeserv services to earn one raffle entry. Winners of the first raffle draw will be announced on Dec. 18, while the remaining winners will be announced on Jan. 16, 2024.
\nThe PriceLocq app is available for download in the App Store and the Google Play Store, and can be used in over 400 Seaoil stations nationwide.
\n", "content_text": "SEAOIL rolls out its familiar Lifetime Free Gas (LFG) promo specifically for PriceLocq users, the brand\u2019s \u201cfuel-saving\u201d mobility app. Three motorists stand to win a lifetime supply of fuel. Also up for grabs are 15 Honda Beat Playful motorcycles and P10,000 worth of PriceLocq fuel vouchers.\nThe LFG campaign for PriceLocq is ongoing and will run until Jan. 15, 2024. Participants must be 18 years old and above with a valid Philippine driver\u2019s license. To earn a raffle entry, motorists must purchase SeaoiI fuel, Lubeserv products, or avail of Lubeserv-on-Wheels services at Seaoil stations that accept PriceLocq as a mode of payment.\nEvery P200 spent using the Pay with LocqPay or Pay with Liter Balance feature will earn motorists one raffle entry. The same rule applies for Lubeserv purchases or Lubeserv-on-Wheels services using the Pay with LocqPay option. Meanwhile, users who have a VIP account connected to PriceLocq only need to spend P100 on fuel or Lubeserv services to earn one raffle entry. Winners of the first raffle draw will be announced on Dec. 18, while the remaining winners will be announced on Jan. 16, 2024.\nThe PriceLocq app is available for download in the App Store and the Google Play Store, and can be used in over 400 Seaoil stations nationwide.", "date_published": "2023-12-11T00:03:45+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-10T14:20:18+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image7.jpg", "tags": [ "Dashboard", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=562464", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/11/562464/gogoro-presents-battery-swapping-plans-for-electric-vehicles/", "title": "Gogoro presents battery-swapping plans for electric vehicles", "content_html": "ELECTRIC MOBILITY and battery-swapping technology firm Gogoro Philippines recently rolled out its so-called Energy Plans in the country in time for its commercial launch this month. Gogoro presented its Swap-and-Go subscription plans, which coincide with the commencement of Smartscooter sales and the activation of the company\u2019s battery-swapping GoStations across the metro.
\n\u201cWe are now witnessing a key turning point in the quest for sustainable and intelligent urban transportation in the Philippines,\u201d said Gogoro Philippines President and CEO Bernie Llamzon in a release. \u201cWith the Gogoro Energy Plans, we are not only providing a convenient and eco-friendly solution for refueling but also embracing a lifestyle change that benefits our community and environment. We are proud to lead this charge and offer a glimpse into the future of mobility.\u201d
\nThe Gogoro ecosystem allows riders to swap out depleted batteries with newly charged ones in seconds \u2014 solving, said the company, range anxiety and long charging times of traditional electric vehicles. The Gogoro Energy Plan, accessible via the Gogoro app, comes with two tailored monthly subscription options: Plan 799: 300Ah (Ampere hour) or up to 420 kilometers of travel distance, and Plan 999: 500Ah or up to 700 kilometers of travel distance.
\nAh, a unit of electric charge, is the basis for the Energy Plans\u2019 allocation. This measurement is converted into maximum kilometers, allowing riders to estimate their travel range easily. The conversion is based on comprehensive studies conducted in Taiwan and pilot programs in the Philippines, ensuring accuracy and reliability for riders. Offers do not have a lock-up period, allowing subscribers to switch plans anytime through the Gogoro App, with changes taking effect in the next billing cycle. The flexibility ensures that customers can choose the one that best suits their individual needs and riding habits.
\nGogoro Philippines has activated four GoStations across the metro: The Globe Tower, 32nd Street corner 7th Avenue in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig; Puregold Para\u00f1aque, 113 Ninoy Aquino Avenue, Sto. Ni\u00f1o, Para\u00f1aque City; Puregold Makati, 35 Dr. Jose P. Rizal Avenue, Makati City; and Phoenix Gas Station, Shaw Boulevard, San Antonio, Pasig City. Two more Gogoro GoStations will open in Quezon City \u2014 at the Uptown Mall in Diliman, Quezon City and another at Bellitudo Building, Katipunan Avenue near White Plains.
\nTwo more GoStations will open in the first quarter of 2024: Ayala Malls Feliz along Marcos Highway in Dela Paz, Pasig City, and Paseo de Magallanes Commercial Center in Makati City.
\nGogoro Philippines is a collaborative effort among Globe\u2019s 917Ventures, Inc., Ayala Corp., and Gogoro. This partnership leverages the expertise of all involved to build a smart electric transportation network in the country.
\nFor more information about Gogoro Energy Plans and to reserve a Gogoro Smartscooter, visit the Gogoro Experience Center on the second floor of Greenbelt 4, Ayala Center; or check out www.gogoro.com/ph.
\n", "content_text": "ELECTRIC MOBILITY and battery-swapping technology firm Gogoro Philippines recently rolled out its so-called Energy Plans in the country in time for its commercial launch this month. Gogoro presented its Swap-and-Go subscription plans, which coincide with the commencement of Smartscooter sales and the activation of the company\u2019s battery-swapping GoStations across the metro.\n\u201cWe are now witnessing a key turning point in the quest for sustainable and intelligent urban transportation in the Philippines,\u201d said Gogoro Philippines President and CEO Bernie Llamzon in a release. \u201cWith the Gogoro Energy Plans, we are not only providing a convenient and eco-friendly solution for refueling but also embracing a lifestyle change that benefits our community and environment. We are proud to lead this charge and offer a glimpse into the future of mobility.\u201d\nThe Gogoro ecosystem allows riders to swap out depleted batteries with newly charged ones in seconds \u2014 solving, said the company, range anxiety and long charging times of traditional electric vehicles. The Gogoro Energy Plan, accessible via the Gogoro app, comes with two tailored monthly subscription options: Plan 799: 300Ah (Ampere hour) or up to 420 kilometers of travel distance, and Plan 999: 500Ah or up to 700 kilometers of travel distance.\nAh, a unit of electric charge, is the basis for the Energy Plans\u2019 allocation. This measurement is converted into maximum kilometers, allowing riders to estimate their travel range easily. The conversion is based on comprehensive studies conducted in Taiwan and pilot programs in the Philippines, ensuring accuracy and reliability for riders. Offers do not have a lock-up period, allowing subscribers to switch plans anytime through the Gogoro App, with changes taking effect in the next billing cycle. The flexibility ensures that customers can choose the one that best suits their individual needs and riding habits.\nGogoro Philippines has activated four GoStations across the metro: The Globe Tower, 32nd Street corner 7th Avenue in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig; Puregold Para\u00f1aque, 113 Ninoy Aquino Avenue, Sto. Ni\u00f1o, Para\u00f1aque City; Puregold Makati, 35 Dr. Jose P. Rizal Avenue, Makati City; and Phoenix Gas Station, Shaw Boulevard, San Antonio, Pasig City. Two more Gogoro GoStations will open in Quezon City \u2014 at the Uptown Mall in Diliman, Quezon City and another at Bellitudo Building, Katipunan Avenue near White Plains.\nTwo more GoStations will open in the first quarter of 2024: Ayala Malls Feliz along Marcos Highway in Dela Paz, Pasig City, and Paseo de Magallanes Commercial Center in Makati City.\nGogoro Philippines is a collaborative effort among Globe\u2019s 917Ventures, Inc., Ayala Corp., and Gogoro. This partnership leverages the expertise of all involved to build a smart electric transportation network in the country.\nFor more information about Gogoro Energy Plans and to reserve a Gogoro Smartscooter, visit the Gogoro Experience Center on the second floor of Greenbelt 4, Ayala Center; or check out www.gogoro.com/ph.", "date_published": "2023-12-11T00:02:33+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-10T14:28:42+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image8.jpg", "tags": [ "State of Charge", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=562463", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/11/562463/all-electric-roadster-headlines-3-model-mg-preview/", "title": "All-electric roadster headlines 3-model MG preview", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\n![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_LOWER_image1.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_LOWER_image2.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_LOWER_image3.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_LOWER_image4.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_LOWER_image5.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_LOWER_image6.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_LOWER_image7.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_LOWER_image8.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_LOWER_image9.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n A BATTERY electric vehicle roadster will be among at least eight MG vehicle models slated to enter the Philippine market until 2025. The MG Cyberster was previewed at the recent media thanksgiving party of SAIC Motor Philippines, exclusive distributor of MG.
\n\u201cMG continues to play its role as a strong upcoming contender in the progress and transformation of the automotive landscape in the Philippines…. We are excited to announce that we are looking to expand our model lineup further with about eight new models to be introduced by 2025,\u201d said SAIC Motor Philippines President Felix Jiang in a speech during the event in Makati City.
\nAccording to the executive, the MG portfolio will continue to be comprised of internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered models and electric vehicles, and added that the brand will \u201cextend (its) presence in various segments.\u201d
\nHe described the MG Cyberster as a \u201ctwo-door EV roadster\u201d that \u201cembodies MG\u2019s renowned British roadster heritage, (but) for the 21st century.\u201d The MG Cyberster is set to be publicly launched here by first half of 2024, according to SAIC Motor Philippines Marketing Manager Che Cabotaje. The Cyberster is powered by a 77-kWh battery which runs its 1x e-motor. It has 335bhp on tap, and the transmission is a single-speed automatic, which drives the rear wheels. MG claims a zero-to-100kph time of 4.6 seconds.
\nAlso previewed was the MG One crossover, set for release in Q1 of next year. The MG One is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter gas engine. Meanwhile, \u201cVelocity\u201d was among the few media outlets given a sneak peek of the MG4 XPower \u2014 also for release in the first quarter of 2024. The XPower will take its place as the highest variant of the previous launched MG4 (which presently has Standard and Lux variants).
\n\u201cTogether with our product extension, we are dedicated to establishing a robust dealership network that ensures accessibility and exceptional service for our valued customers. These indeed are exciting times for MG,\u201d concluded Mr. Jiang. \u2014 Kap Maceda Aguila
\n", "content_text": "1 of 9\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n SAIC Motor Philippines President Felix Jiang poses with the MG Cyberster. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The MG One \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The MG4 XPower \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nA BATTERY electric vehicle roadster will be among at least eight MG vehicle models slated to enter the Philippine market until 2025. The MG Cyberster was previewed at the recent media thanksgiving party of SAIC Motor Philippines, exclusive distributor of MG.\n\u201cMG continues to play its role as a strong upcoming contender in the progress and transformation of the automotive landscape in the Philippines…. We are excited to announce that we are looking to expand our model lineup further with about eight new models to be introduced by 2025,\u201d said SAIC Motor Philippines President Felix Jiang in a speech during the event in Makati City.\nAccording to the executive, the MG portfolio will continue to be comprised of internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered models and electric vehicles, and added that the brand will \u201cextend (its) presence in various segments.\u201d\nHe described the MG Cyberster as a \u201ctwo-door EV roadster\u201d that \u201cembodies MG\u2019s renowned British roadster heritage, (but) for the 21st century.\u201d The MG Cyberster is set to be publicly launched here by first half of 2024, according to SAIC Motor Philippines Marketing Manager Che Cabotaje. The Cyberster is powered by a 77-kWh battery which runs its 1x e-motor. It has 335bhp on tap, and the transmission is a single-speed automatic, which drives the rear wheels. MG claims a zero-to-100kph time of 4.6 seconds.\nAlso previewed was the MG One crossover, set for release in Q1 of next year. The MG One is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter gas engine. Meanwhile, \u201cVelocity\u201d was among the few media outlets given a sneak peek of the MG4 XPower \u2014 also for release in the first quarter of 2024. The XPower will take its place as the highest variant of the previous launched MG4 (which presently has Standard and Lux variants).\n\u201cTogether with our product extension, we are dedicated to establishing a robust dealership network that ensures accessibility and exceptional service for our valued customers. These indeed are exciting times for MG,\u201d concluded Mr. Jiang. \u2014 Kap Maceda Aguila", "date_published": "2023-12-11T00:01:44+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-10T14:18:26+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_LOWER_image1.jpg", "tags": [ "Brand New", "Kap Maceda Aguila", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=561051", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/04/561051/china-chongqing-changan-part-1-swinging-for-the-fences/", "title": "China, Chongqing, Changan (Part 1): Swinging for the fences", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\nUNDERSTANDABLY, there are now loftier aspirations for Changan Auto in the Philippines when it did a reboot of sorts last September \u2014 publicly debuting under a new country distributor group.
\nLondon-based Inchcape, the \u201clargest independent global automotive distributor and retailer in the world\u201d with a presence in over 40 markets across five continents, takes over the reins of China\u2019s oldest car maker \u2014 adding to its considerable local portfolio of brands here which include Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, Land Rover, Jeep, Dodge, RAM, Chrysler, Harley-Davidson, and a Mazda dealership, following its merger with CATS.
\nBut obviously due to its more accessible price points, Changan Auto is envisioned to move more units and fill the garage of a greater number of car browsers.
\nIt takes a couple of hours by plane from Hong Kong to Chongqing, which lies in a mountainous region. The undulating terrain is seemingly only broken by the tranquil meandering of the mighty Yangtze, which at some point meets with the Jianling River.
\nThe Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport is built to impress \u2014 appearing a little too large for the present traffic of visitors, at least the time we are there. But that may just also be the People\u2019s Republic of China\u2019s Central Government future-proofing the municipality for anticipated growth. Indeed, opened in 1990, the airport has gone through multiple expansion phases.
\nOur group of dealers, bank partners, members of the media, and content creators are greeted by a cold rush of air as we step out of the terminal and head for our bus. This place can get very hot and humid, we are told by our local guide, but we have fortuitously come at a time where the weather is mild.
\nHereabouts is home to Changan Auto, the smallest of the so-called \u201cBig Four\u201d state-owned vehicle marques. However, it is the biggest seller of ICE (internal combustion engine)-powered vehicles in the country.
\nChangan develops vehicles of sub-brands Deepal (or Shenlan, purveying electric vehicles), Avatr (its premium EV line with joint investor CATL, the world\u2019s leading battery manufacturer), Changan Qiyuan (electric vehicle line under the Changan brand), Changan Uni (ICE-powered vehicles), Oshan (mid-level SUVs and MPVs), and Kaicene (commercial vehicles).
\nSpeaking with \u201cVelocity,\u201d Changan Auto Philippines General Manager Maricar Parco shares, \u201cThat\u2019s the beauty of this partnership between Changan and Inchcape. The whole brand portfolio of Changan Auto is available for Inchcape Philippines. Again, we introduced the Changan ICE vehicles and previewed the Deepal which we hope to introduce as soon as next year. And because of the proximity of China to the country, we can get our vehicles quite quickly, and it\u2019s really just a matter of having the business proposition approved.\u201d
\nDuring a presentation at the massive Changan Global R&D Center, we are told that Changan\u2019s global footprint involves some 72,000 employees, and has created around one million jobs across the supplier/contractor chain. With a market capitalization of RMB210 billion, Changan has 73 branches and subsidiaries, nine manufacturing hubs, and 27 vehicle and power plants in 64 countries and regions. Its global dealership network is 9,000-strong, peopled by 120,000 service staff, and considers the following as its key markets: Mexico, Pero, Chile, Russia, Uzbekistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Thailand, and Pakistan.
\nThe Chongqing facility is the nexus of a global network of 10 R&D centers located in Beijing, Shanghai (software development center), Hefei, Japan (styling design center), the US (intelligent driving R&D center), Hebei (light vehicle R&D center), the UK (power R&D center), Germany (styling design center), and another in Europe (design center). Its R&D activities are overseen by a combined complement of 17,000 people from 30 countries.
\nBack to Inchcape, the Philippines actually becomes its first partnership with Changan Auto in Asia-Pacific, effectively becoming a gateway to presumably more markets here.
\nIf you\u2019re wondering, \u201cChang-an,\u201d means \u201clasting safety\u201d in its traditional Chinese form, and the company embraces this as it claims to not only boast a \u201ccomprehensive and complete product lineup to the Filipino that is competitive in pricing, yet also exceptional when it comes superior driving performance, in-car technology, and intelligent driving and safety systems.\u201d
\nAt the brand\u2019s aforementioned recent relaunch, Changan International Corp. Vice-General Manager Tom Yin said that the main goals of Changan are electrification, increased connectivity, and a so-called \u201cvast ocean\u201d plan that targets the sale of 1.2 million cars outside of China by 2030.
\nMeanwhile, Inchcape Philippines Managing Director Alex Hammett had insisted that the global partnership with Changan, inked this year, promises \u201cmuch better services\u201d to the growing number of Changan customers in the Philippines. Inchcape is poised to leverage its \u201cindustry-leading digital and data analytics capabilities based here in the Philippines,\u201d continued Mr. Hammett. \u201c(It\u2019s here) where we have our digital center with over 650 employees working on digital solutions, AI (artificial intelligence), machine learning, cybersecurity, and so on.\u201d
\nDuring a recent conversation with this writer, the executive revealed plans to set up a regional Inchcape office in the Philippines. It makes sense, he said, owing to the presence of the digital delivery center, the Filipinos\u2019 fluency in the English language, and Inchcape\u2019s confidence in its CATS Group partner.
\nInchcape Philippines Chief Operating Officer Francis Jonathan \u201cFrankie\u201d Ang told \u201cVelocity\u201d the group and its affiliated brands are currently in the process of laying down the IT infrastructure that will bring its systems up to speed with Inchcape worldwide standards and redound in obvious benefit to both internal and external stakeholders.
\nSeeing the girth and breadth of Changan\u2019s operations in Chongqing, it\u2019s easier to fathom how serious the brand is about putting out products that not only look good, but are keenly tuned and tested to pass the sniff test of increasingly discerning car buyers in China, and well beyond its borders.
\nMore about this in our next issue.
\n", "content_text": "1 of 6\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n A line of Changan vehicles and its affiliated brands are parked at the Changan Global R&D facility in Chongqing, China. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n This scenic portion of the Yuzhong District is a tourist magnet, particularly when the sun comes down and the lights flicker on at the traditional stilted buildings of Hongyadong. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n An all-electric Avatr 11 speeds at the test strip. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Scenes at the Changan Automobile Liangjiang Plant \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The Philippine delegation poses with some Changan officials at the Changan Global R&D Center in Chongqing. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nThe China automaker has lofty global aspirations, and the numbers show them\nUNDERSTANDABLY, there are now loftier aspirations for Changan Auto in the Philippines when it did a reboot of sorts last September \u2014 publicly debuting under a new country distributor group.\nLondon-based Inchcape, the \u201clargest independent global automotive distributor and retailer in the world\u201d with a presence in over 40 markets across five continents, takes over the reins of China\u2019s oldest car maker \u2014 adding to its considerable local portfolio of brands here which include Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, Land Rover, Jeep, Dodge, RAM, Chrysler, Harley-Davidson, and a Mazda dealership, following its merger with CATS.\nBut obviously due to its more accessible price points, Changan Auto is envisioned to move more units and fill the garage of a greater number of car browsers.\nIt takes a couple of hours by plane from Hong Kong to Chongqing, which lies in a mountainous region. The undulating terrain is seemingly only broken by the tranquil meandering of the mighty Yangtze, which at some point meets with the Jianling River.\nThe Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport is built to impress \u2014 appearing a little too large for the present traffic of visitors, at least the time we are there. But that may just also be the People\u2019s Republic of China\u2019s Central Government future-proofing the municipality for anticipated growth. Indeed, opened in 1990, the airport has gone through multiple expansion phases.\nOur group of dealers, bank partners, members of the media, and content creators are greeted by a cold rush of air as we step out of the terminal and head for our bus. This place can get very hot and humid, we are told by our local guide, but we have fortuitously come at a time where the weather is mild.\nHereabouts is home to Changan Auto, the smallest of the so-called \u201cBig Four\u201d state-owned vehicle marques. However, it is the biggest seller of ICE (internal combustion engine)-powered vehicles in the country.\nChangan develops vehicles of sub-brands Deepal (or Shenlan, purveying electric vehicles), Avatr (its premium EV line with joint investor CATL, the world\u2019s leading battery manufacturer), Changan Qiyuan (electric vehicle line under the Changan brand), Changan Uni (ICE-powered vehicles), Oshan (mid-level SUVs and MPVs), and Kaicene (commercial vehicles).\nSpeaking with \u201cVelocity,\u201d Changan Auto Philippines General Manager Maricar Parco shares, \u201cThat\u2019s the beauty of this partnership between Changan and Inchcape. The whole brand portfolio of Changan Auto is available for Inchcape Philippines. Again, we introduced the Changan ICE vehicles and previewed the Deepal which we hope to introduce as soon as next year. And because of the proximity of China to the country, we can get our vehicles quite quickly, and it\u2019s really just a matter of having the business proposition approved.\u201d\nDuring a presentation at the massive Changan Global R&D Center, we are told that Changan\u2019s global footprint involves some 72,000 employees, and has created around one million jobs across the supplier/contractor chain. With a market capitalization of RMB210 billion, Changan has 73 branches and subsidiaries, nine manufacturing hubs, and 27 vehicle and power plants in 64 countries and regions. Its global dealership network is 9,000-strong, peopled by 120,000 service staff, and considers the following as its key markets: Mexico, Pero, Chile, Russia, Uzbekistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Thailand, and Pakistan.\nThe Chongqing facility is the nexus of a global network of 10 R&D centers located in Beijing, Shanghai (software development center), Hefei, Japan (styling design center), the US (intelligent driving R&D center), Hebei (light vehicle R&D center), the UK (power R&D center), Germany (styling design center), and another in Europe (design center). Its R&D activities are overseen by a combined complement of 17,000 people from 30 countries.\nBack to Inchcape, the Philippines actually becomes its first partnership with Changan Auto in Asia-Pacific, effectively becoming a gateway to presumably more markets here.\nIf you\u2019re wondering, \u201cChang-an,\u201d means \u201clasting safety\u201d in its traditional Chinese form, and the company embraces this as it claims to not only boast a \u201ccomprehensive and complete product lineup to the Filipino that is competitive in pricing, yet also exceptional when it comes superior driving performance, in-car technology, and intelligent driving and safety systems.\u201d\nAt the brand\u2019s aforementioned recent relaunch, Changan International Corp. Vice-General Manager Tom Yin said that the main goals of Changan are electrification, increased connectivity, and a so-called \u201cvast ocean\u201d plan that targets the sale of 1.2 million cars outside of China by 2030.\nMeanwhile, Inchcape Philippines Managing Director Alex Hammett had insisted that the global partnership with Changan, inked this year, promises \u201cmuch better services\u201d to the growing number of Changan customers in the Philippines. Inchcape is poised to leverage its \u201cindustry-leading digital and data analytics capabilities based here in the Philippines,\u201d continued Mr. Hammett. \u201c(It\u2019s here) where we have our digital center with over 650 employees working on digital solutions, AI (artificial intelligence), machine learning, cybersecurity, and so on.\u201d\nDuring a recent conversation with this writer, the executive revealed plans to set up a regional Inchcape office in the Philippines. It makes sense, he said, owing to the presence of the digital delivery center, the Filipinos\u2019 fluency in the English language, and Inchcape\u2019s confidence in its CATS Group partner.\nInchcape Philippines Chief Operating Officer Francis Jonathan \u201cFrankie\u201d Ang told \u201cVelocity\u201d the group and its affiliated brands are currently in the process of laying down the IT infrastructure that will bring its systems up to speed with Inchcape worldwide standards and redound in obvious benefit to both internal and external stakeholders.\nSeeing the girth and breadth of Changan\u2019s operations in Chongqing, it\u2019s easier to fathom how serious the brand is about putting out products that not only look good, but are keenly tuned and tested to pass the sniff test of increasingly discerning car buyers in China, and well beyond its borders.\nMore about this in our next issue.", "date_published": "2023-12-04T00:06:43+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-03T14:31:02+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_COLUMN_image1.jpg", "tags": [ "Kap Maceda Aguila", "Talk Box", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ], "summary": "UNDERSTANDABLY, there are now loftier aspirations for Changan Auto in the Philippines when it did a reboot of sorts last September \u2014 publicly debuting under a new country distributor group." }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=561050", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/04/561050/annyeong-kg-mobility-phl/", "title": "Annyeong, KG Mobility PHL!", "content_html": "RECENTLY, The Covenant Car Company, Inc. (TCCCI) \u2014 already long-known here as the country\u2019s exclusive importer and distributor of Chevrolet vehicles \u2014 formally revealed the latest addition to its portfolio of car brand distributorships: KG Mobility. And just like the name sounds, KG Mobility is a South Korean automotive brand now owned by the KG Group. It used to go by the name SsangYong, when it was still under Mahindra of India.
\nThe Korean automotive company has long been recognized for its expertise in manufacturing SUVs in South Korea. Its roots date back to 1954, showcasing almost 70 years of experience in Korean SUV production.
\n\u201cProducts from Korea, including automobiles, are recognized around the world for their outstanding build quality, aesthetic refinement, and for being curated with expert oversight \u2014 merits which we are sure will endear Filipinos toward KG Mobility Philippines\u2019 appealing lineup of vehicles,\u201d pointed out KG Mobility Korea Executive Managing Director Ki Young Hwang. He added, \u201cWe look with anticipation (to) the growth and development of KG Mobility Philippines. With our partners from TCCCI, the Filipino motoring public can expect a captivating lineup of new-generation KG Mobility SUVs and pickup trucks, while providing reliable, customer-oriented after-sales and technical support for a worry-free ownership experience.\u201d
\nIt\u2019s actually quite refreshing to welcome a new slew of (rebranded) Korean vehicles in the Philippines… and I\u2019m sure Filipino K-Pop fans will be savvy to discover them. TCCCI is very happy to have been awarded the local distributorship, even as several other groups had bid for it. The arrangement between the KG Group and TCCCI was formalized over the third quarter of this year.
\n\u201cThe establishment of KG Mobility Philippines is yet another testament to the ongoing partnership between the Philippines and Korea,\u201d shared TCCCI Chairman of the Board Amb. Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. \u201cThe Covenant Car Company, Inc. is very pleased to offer our discerning Filipino car buyers these innovative, safe, and modern automobiles from KG Mobility. We are optimistic that the local motoring public will respond positively to our portfolio of product offerings, and we are likewise eager to grow KGM Philippines into a household name for expertly crafted, reliable, Korean-made automobiles,\u201d he maintained.
\n![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_image2.jpg\")
Meanwhile, TCCCI Executive Vice-President Lyn Buena, shared with \u201cVelocity\u201d that the company already has a series of KG Mobility roadshows lined up for NCR\u2019s business and lifestyle hubs until the end of the year. These are designed to set a brand-awareness campaign in motion. She also pointed out that, in her opinion, KG Mobility will enjoy its own unique identity in the Philippine motoring landscape that it is not likely to get lost in the blur of all the other new car brands that are coming in.
\nWith that said, KG Mobility Philippines targets to have at least 12 dealer partners in the Philippines within the next 12 months. But interested buyers can already start inquiring and placing their orders now, via existing dealer offices in Alabang, Greenhills, and Angeles City.
\nOf course, what is critical to a new brand\u2019s successful growth in the Philippines is its carefully selected product lineup, which KG Mobility Philippines has put very much thought into. The brand is starting its journey with the introduction of five value-rich products, namely: the Tivoli Crossover SUV, Tivoli Grand SUV, Torres SUV, Rexton mid-size SUV, and Musso Grand Pickup.
\nOf the lot, the Torres compact SUV is the brand\u2019s flagship model. And testament to its innovative design and features, it also happens to be short-listed as one of the 36 candidates vying for the 2024 \u201cWorld Car of the Year\u201d title.
\nLastly, to make offerings even more attractive, KG Mobility Philippines\u2019 products will include a five-year/100,000-km (whichever comes first) vehicle warranty, and 24/7 emergency roadside assistance via a dedicated customer support hotline. There will also be home vehicle servicing packages available, for special after-sales cases. Oh, and TCCCI also said that the dealership network will be open to servicing the existing SsangYong-branded models in the Philippines.
\n", "content_text": "TCCCI takes charge of a comebacking auto brand from South Korea\nRECENTLY, The Covenant Car Company, Inc. (TCCCI) \u2014 already long-known here as the country\u2019s exclusive importer and distributor of Chevrolet vehicles \u2014 formally revealed the latest addition to its portfolio of car brand distributorships: KG Mobility. And just like the name sounds, KG Mobility is a South Korean automotive brand now owned by the KG Group. It used to go by the name SsangYong, when it was still under Mahindra of India.\nThe Korean automotive company has long been recognized for its expertise in manufacturing SUVs in South Korea. Its roots date back to 1954, showcasing almost 70 years of experience in Korean SUV production.\n\u201cProducts from Korea, including automobiles, are recognized around the world for their outstanding build quality, aesthetic refinement, and for being curated with expert oversight \u2014 merits which we are sure will endear Filipinos toward KG Mobility Philippines\u2019 appealing lineup of vehicles,\u201d pointed out KG Mobility Korea Executive Managing Director Ki Young Hwang. He added, \u201cWe look with anticipation (to) the growth and development of KG Mobility Philippines. With our partners from TCCCI, the Filipino motoring public can expect a captivating lineup of new-generation KG Mobility SUVs and pickup trucks, while providing reliable, customer-oriented after-sales and technical support for a worry-free ownership experience.\u201d\nIt\u2019s actually quite refreshing to welcome a new slew of (rebranded) Korean vehicles in the Philippines… and I\u2019m sure Filipino K-Pop fans will be savvy to discover them. TCCCI is very happy to have been awarded the local distributorship, even as several other groups had bid for it. The arrangement between the KG Group and TCCCI was formalized over the third quarter of this year.\n\u201cThe establishment of KG Mobility Philippines is yet another testament to the ongoing partnership between the Philippines and Korea,\u201d shared TCCCI Chairman of the Board Amb. Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. \u201cThe Covenant Car Company, Inc. is very pleased to offer our discerning Filipino car buyers these innovative, safe, and modern automobiles from KG Mobility. We are optimistic that the local motoring public will respond positively to our portfolio of product offerings, and we are likewise eager to grow KGM Philippines into a household name for expertly crafted, reliable, Korean-made automobiles,\u201d he maintained.\nKG Mobility\u2019s flagship model, the Torres SUV \u2014 PHOTO BY ANGEL RIVERO\nMeanwhile, TCCCI Executive Vice-President Lyn Buena, shared with \u201cVelocity\u201d that the company already has a series of KG Mobility roadshows lined up for NCR\u2019s business and lifestyle hubs until the end of the year. These are designed to set a brand-awareness campaign in motion. She also pointed out that, in her opinion, KG Mobility will enjoy its own unique identity in the Philippine motoring landscape that it is not likely to get lost in the blur of all the other new car brands that are coming in.\nWith that said, KG Mobility Philippines targets to have at least 12 dealer partners in the Philippines within the next 12 months. But interested buyers can already start inquiring and placing their orders now, via existing dealer offices in Alabang, Greenhills, and Angeles City.\nOf course, what is critical to a new brand\u2019s successful growth in the Philippines is its carefully selected product lineup, which KG Mobility Philippines has put very much thought into. The brand is starting its journey with the introduction of five value-rich products, namely: the Tivoli Crossover SUV, Tivoli Grand SUV, Torres SUV, Rexton mid-size SUV, and Musso Grand Pickup.\nOf the lot, the Torres compact SUV is the brand\u2019s flagship model. And testament to its innovative design and features, it also happens to be short-listed as one of the 36 candidates vying for the 2024 \u201cWorld Car of the Year\u201d title.\nLastly, to make offerings even more attractive, KG Mobility Philippines\u2019 products will include a five-year/100,000-km (whichever comes first) vehicle warranty, and 24/7 emergency roadside assistance via a dedicated customer support hotline. There will also be home vehicle servicing packages available, for special after-sales cases. Oh, and TCCCI also said that the dealership network will be open to servicing the existing SsangYong-branded models in the Philippines.", "date_published": "2023-12-04T00:05:42+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-03T14:28:21+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_image1.jpg", "tags": [ "Angel Rivero", "Featured2", "Wayfarer", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ], "summary": "RECENTLY, The Covenant Car Company, Inc. (TCCCI) \u2014 already long-known here as the country\u2019s exclusive importer and distributor of Chevrolet vehicles \u2014 formally revealed the latest addition to its portfolio of car brand distributorships: KG Mobility. And just like the name sounds, KG Mobility is a South Korean automotive brand now owned by the KG Group. It used to go by the name SsangYong, when it was still under Mahindra of India." }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=561048", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/04/561048/segway-to-affordable-and-electrified-mobility/", "title": "Segway to affordable and electrified mobility", "content_html": "By Dylan Afuang
\nFOR THE AUTOHUB Group, electric mobility can come in two wheels and four, and at prices affordable and premium.
\nAs the local distributor of Lotus cars, the company introduced the brand\u2019s P10-million Eletre electric SUV at the 11th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS), and also showcased the electric scooters from the China-headquartered Segway brand it now handles.
\nThe N100, E110L, and E300SE models comprise the local Segway lineup. Autohub has opened reservations for these e-scooters, which will then be delivered to customers in January 2024, when these will also be made available for purchase, Autohub President Willy Tee Ten announced at the PEVS.
\n\u201cAs the Philippine distributor (of Segway e-scooters), we actively seek partners who share our vision for a sustainable and connected future,\u201d Mr. Tee Ten expressed to the media at the exhibition. He continued, \u201cAll (these models come) at highly competitive prices, making them a truly accessible option for Filipinos.\u201d
\nPegged at P109,000, the N100 is powered by a 1,500-W motor, capable of a 60kph top speed, and can travel a range of 105km. The motorcycle\u2019s weight is estimated at 67kg, and that factors in the 14kg, 72V 24Ah battery it carries.
\nFor P125,000, the E110L provides a more powerful 1,800-W motor that generates 150Nm and allows a top speed of 62kph. Range, on the other hand, is rated at 110km on a full charge.
\nPriced at P275,000, the E300SE leads the local Segway lineup with its sizable 7,800-W motor and generous 200Nm of torque. While the E300SE\u2019s terminal velocity is limited to 105kph, the dual battery system it utilizes returns an estimated range of 130km.
\nEABS-equipped front and rear disc brakes, LED headlights, and signal lights are standard with these Segway e-scooters. With a 250-W battery, the N100 and E110L can be fully charged in eight to nine hours, but the E300SE requires only 5.5 hours because of its 1,008-W charger.
\nWhile the company peddles the brand\u2019s scooters, a separate entity will handle the brand\u2019s alternative mobility products such as kick scooters and electric go-karts, Autohub Marketing Manager for Lotus, Mini, and Rolls-Royce Mae Pacatang-Valdez shared to \u201cVelocity.\u201d
\nThe Segway e-scooters will also be retailed under the roof of Autohub\u2019s multi-brand showroom in BGC, Taguig City, alongside the aforementioned vehicle marques, Ms. Pacatang-Valdez added.
\n", "content_text": "Autohub Group now distributes e-scooter brand, schedules rollout in early 2024 \nBy Dylan Afuang\nFOR THE AUTOHUB Group, electric mobility can come in two wheels and four, and at prices affordable and premium.\nAs the local distributor of Lotus cars, the company introduced the brand\u2019s P10-million Eletre electric SUV at the 11th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS), and also showcased the electric scooters from the China-headquartered Segway brand it now handles.\nThe N100, E110L, and E300SE models comprise the local Segway lineup. Autohub has opened reservations for these e-scooters, which will then be delivered to customers in January 2024, when these will also be made available for purchase, Autohub President Willy Tee Ten announced at the PEVS.\n\u201cAs the Philippine distributor (of Segway e-scooters), we actively seek partners who share our vision for a sustainable and connected future,\u201d Mr. Tee Ten expressed to the media at the exhibition. He continued, \u201cAll (these models come) at highly competitive prices, making them a truly accessible option for Filipinos.\u201d\nPegged at P109,000, the N100 is powered by a 1,500-W motor, capable of a 60kph top speed, and can travel a range of 105km. The motorcycle\u2019s weight is estimated at 67kg, and that factors in the 14kg, 72V 24Ah battery it carries.\nFor P125,000, the E110L provides a more powerful 1,800-W motor that generates 150Nm and allows a top speed of 62kph. Range, on the other hand, is rated at 110km on a full charge.\nPriced at P275,000, the E300SE leads the local Segway lineup with its sizable 7,800-W motor and generous 200Nm of torque. While the E300SE\u2019s terminal velocity is limited to 105kph, the dual battery system it utilizes returns an estimated range of 130km.\nEABS-equipped front and rear disc brakes, LED headlights, and signal lights are standard with these Segway e-scooters. With a 250-W battery, the N100 and E110L can be fully charged in eight to nine hours, but the E300SE requires only 5.5 hours because of its 1,008-W charger.\nWhile the company peddles the brand\u2019s scooters, a separate entity will handle the brand\u2019s alternative mobility products such as kick scooters and electric go-karts, Autohub Marketing Manager for Lotus, Mini, and Rolls-Royce Mae Pacatang-Valdez shared to \u201cVelocity.\u201d\nThe Segway e-scooters will also be retailed under the roof of Autohub\u2019s multi-brand showroom in BGC, Taguig City, alongside the aforementioned vehicle marques, Ms. Pacatang-Valdez added.", "date_published": "2023-12-04T00:04:40+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-03T14:27:22+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_image3.jpg", "tags": [ "Dylan Afuang", "Featured2", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ], "summary": "FOR THE AUTOHUB Group, electric mobility can come in two wheels and four, and at prices affordable and premium." }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=561047", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/04/561047/gac-bundles-2-years-of-free-pms-with-each-vehicle/", "title": "GAC bundles 2 years of free PMS with each vehicle", "content_html": "GAC MOTOR PHILIPPINES announced that it bundles each GAC vehicle purchase from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, 2023 with two years of free periodic maintenance service (PMS). \u201cThis special program is GAC Motor\u2019s way of ensuring that every customer\u2019s journey with (its) vehicle is not only stylish and exhilarating but also worry-free and exceptionally rewarding,\u201d the company said in a release. The offer is extended to all the vehicles in the portfolio.
\n\u201cWe believe in not just providing cutting-edge vehicles but in fostering a lasting relationship with our customers,\u201d said GAC Motor Philippines Brand Head Franz Decloedt. \u201cThis two-year periodic maintenance service package is our way of ensuring our customers receive unparalleled care and support throughout their journey of owning a GAC Motor vehicle.\u201d
\nCovered in the comprehensive periodic maintenance service package are oil change, fluid and filter replacement, brakes cleaning and inspection, and more.
\nGAC Motor showrooms and service facilities are located in Alabang, Batangas, Bacolod, Bacoor, Butuan, Cainta, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Lipa, Makati, Manila Bay, New Manila, Pampanga, Pasig, Quezon Avenue, and Tarlac. Additional establishments will open soon in Cagayan de Oro, General Santos, and Marilao.
\n", "content_text": "GAC MOTOR PHILIPPINES announced that it bundles each GAC vehicle purchase from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, 2023 with two years of free periodic maintenance service (PMS). \u201cThis special program is GAC Motor\u2019s way of ensuring that every customer\u2019s journey with (its) vehicle is not only stylish and exhilarating but also worry-free and exceptionally rewarding,\u201d the company said in a release. The offer is extended to all the vehicles in the portfolio.\n\u201cWe believe in not just providing cutting-edge vehicles but in fostering a lasting relationship with our customers,\u201d said GAC Motor Philippines Brand Head Franz Decloedt. \u201cThis two-year periodic maintenance service package is our way of ensuring our customers receive unparalleled care and support throughout their journey of owning a GAC Motor vehicle.\u201d\nCovered in the comprehensive periodic maintenance service package are oil change, fluid and filter replacement, brakes cleaning and inspection, and more.\nGAC Motor showrooms and service facilities are located in Alabang, Batangas, Bacolod, Bacoor, Butuan, Cainta, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Lipa, Makati, Manila Bay, New Manila, Pampanga, Pasig, Quezon Avenue, and Tarlac. Additional establishments will open soon in Cagayan de Oro, General Santos, and Marilao.", "date_published": "2023-12-04T00:03:39+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-03T14:27:03+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_image4.jpg", "tags": [ "Dashboard", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=561045", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/04/561045/first-ever-jbl-car-audio-tunefest-held/", "title": "First-ever JBL Car Audio Tunefest held", "content_html": "JBL CAR AUDIO Philippines recently staged the brand\u2019s first-ever \u201cTunefest,\u201d which it considered \u201can avenue for car audio enthusiasts and installers to engage and showcase the best in-car JBL setups,\u201d and to bring together the car community.
\nThe activity was held at the rooftop parking of O-Square 2 in Greenhills Mall, San Juan City. The event was co-presented by Stance Pilipinas/Manila Fitted (SPMF), Manila Street Chronicles (MSC), and Bumper2Bumper Car Show (B2B).
\nThe highlight of the day was the JBL Car Audio Competition. It was nearly a two-month journey for the participating JBL installers and car owners as they prepared their vehicles for the official judging on the morning of Tunefest. Fifteen entries competed across three categories: Stadium (premium), Open Stage (across all JBL model lines), and Sound and Style (Club and ClubSQ ranges, and split points between audio performance and styling). In addition to the categories, three special recognitions were given out: People\u2019s Choice Award, Mayor\u2019s Choice Award (chosen and presented by Rocco Zamora on behalf of San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora), and Special Style Award (chosen from among the car clubs and attendees who joined the event).
\nThe car audio entries were judged on-site by a panel of judges trained under the European Mobile Music Association (EMMA): Adison De Ocampo, Bong Matias, Dong Matias, Arvin Ramos, Martin De Costa, and Peter Gaw. Style awards were selected and judged by Bryan Revilla of MSC. Attendees included owner clubs, car communities, and personalities like B2B, MSC, SPMF, Grupo Toyota, Miata Club Of The Philippines, Nissan Kicks E-Power Club, FJ Cruiser Club Of The Philippines, Porsche owners, Buzzhype Motorsport, BanaweBoy, EverSince Street Club, and more.
\n![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_image6.jpg\")
The Stadium Category was won by Mickey\u2019s Autosound, followed by MSO Audio and SimpleSound; Natune Car Audio bagged the championship in the Open Stage Category, followed by David\u2019s Street Sound and Team Car Center. The Sound and Style Category was won by JC Car Audio, with Team Car Center and David\u2019s Street Sound completing the podium lineup. The Mayor\u2019s Choice Award went to the following: SimpleSound (Stadium), Audio Essential (Open Stage), and JC Car Audio (Sound and Style). People\u2019s Choice awardees were SimpleSound (Stadium), and ZT Car Accessories (Open Stage), and Audio Essential (Sound and Style).
\nThe JBL Car Audio Tunefest was also supported by auto brands including BMW, BYD, Changan, Chery, Ford, GAC, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi Motors, Nissan, and Subaru. Each manufacturer highlighted its hero model of the season, from conventional to hybrid to electric, and opened up the opportunity for attendees to check out the latest features.
\nAs an exclusive treat, attendees were given the chance to listen to the first JBL Arena setup that was installed by JC Car Audio into Franz Gaw\u2019s Toyota GR Yaris. MSC also introduced its Porsche Cayenne off-road build, fitted with a full JBL ClubSQ system and the JBL Basspro Go portable subwoofer. On-site professional-grade car cleaning was provided by Sonax Philippines, with an exclusive event trial promotion of its new Ceramic Series product line. In addition, one set of a special full SUV wrap was sponsored by Vinyl Frog Philippines.
\nFor refreshments, attendees were treated to options from Bahn Mi Kitchen, Coffee Nook, Crepe Talk, EDSA BDG, and Slap Stacks Burgers.
\n", "content_text": "JBL CAR AUDIO Philippines recently staged the brand\u2019s first-ever \u201cTunefest,\u201d which it considered \u201can avenue for car audio enthusiasts and installers to engage and showcase the best in-car JBL setups,\u201d and to bring together the car community.\nThe activity was held at the rooftop parking of O-Square 2 in Greenhills Mall, San Juan City. The event was co-presented by Stance Pilipinas/Manila Fitted (SPMF), Manila Street Chronicles (MSC), and Bumper2Bumper Car Show (B2B).\nThe highlight of the day was the JBL Car Audio Competition. It was nearly a two-month journey for the participating JBL installers and car owners as they prepared their vehicles for the official judging on the morning of Tunefest. Fifteen entries competed across three categories: Stadium (premium), Open Stage (across all JBL model lines), and Sound and Style (Club and ClubSQ ranges, and split points between audio performance and styling). In addition to the categories, three special recognitions were given out: People\u2019s Choice Award, Mayor\u2019s Choice Award (chosen and presented by Rocco Zamora on behalf of San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora), and Special Style Award (chosen from among the car clubs and attendees who joined the event).\nThe car audio entries were judged on-site by a panel of judges trained under the European Mobile Music Association (EMMA): Adison De Ocampo, Bong Matias, Dong Matias, Arvin Ramos, Martin De Costa, and Peter Gaw. Style awards were selected and judged by Bryan Revilla of MSC. Attendees included owner clubs, car communities, and personalities like B2B, MSC, SPMF, Grupo Toyota, Miata Club Of The Philippines, Nissan Kicks E-Power Club, FJ Cruiser Club Of The Philippines, Porsche owners, Buzzhype Motorsport, BanaweBoy, EverSince Street Club, and more.\nPHOTO FROM JBL CAR AUDIO PHILIPPINES\nThe Stadium Category was won by Mickey\u2019s Autosound, followed by MSO Audio and SimpleSound; Natune Car Audio bagged the championship in the Open Stage Category, followed by David\u2019s Street Sound and Team Car Center. The Sound and Style Category was won by JC Car Audio, with Team Car Center and David\u2019s Street Sound completing the podium lineup. The Mayor\u2019s Choice Award went to the following: SimpleSound (Stadium), Audio Essential (Open Stage), and JC Car Audio (Sound and Style). People\u2019s Choice awardees were SimpleSound (Stadium), and ZT Car Accessories (Open Stage), and Audio Essential (Sound and Style).\nThe JBL Car Audio Tunefest was also supported by auto brands including BMW, BYD, Changan, Chery, Ford, GAC, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi Motors, Nissan, and Subaru. Each manufacturer highlighted its hero model of the season, from conventional to hybrid to electric, and opened up the opportunity for attendees to check out the latest features.\nAs an exclusive treat, attendees were given the chance to listen to the first JBL Arena setup that was installed by JC Car Audio into Franz Gaw\u2019s Toyota GR Yaris. MSC also introduced its Porsche Cayenne off-road build, fitted with a full JBL ClubSQ system and the JBL Basspro Go portable subwoofer. On-site professional-grade car cleaning was provided by Sonax Philippines, with an exclusive event trial promotion of its new Ceramic Series product line. In addition, one set of a special full SUV wrap was sponsored by Vinyl Frog Philippines.\nFor refreshments, attendees were treated to options from Bahn Mi Kitchen, Coffee Nook, Crepe Talk, EDSA BDG, and Slap Stacks Burgers.", "date_published": "2023-12-04T00:02:38+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-03T14:26:46+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_image5.jpg", "tags": [ "Dashboard", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=561044", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/12/04/561044/unioil-petroleums-fill-and-win-promo-campaign-offers-free-fuel/", "title": "Unioil Petroleum\u2019s \u2018Fill and Win\u2019 promo campaign offers free fuel", "content_html": "THE THIRD largest petroleum company in the country (per a 2023 report of the Department of Energy) is staging its \u201cFill and Win\u201d campaign, \u201ca token of appreciation for the unwavering support of\u2026 valued customers,\u201d said the company in a release.
\nCustomers can win over 100 prizes daily. For every P250 spend, whether on fuel or lubricants, customers are entitled to a spin entry. The receipt includes a QR code at the bottom. By scanning the QR code, these entries are credited to the customer\u2019s registered account on Unioil\u2019s gamified website. Unioil loyalty card members enjoy an extra perk \u2014 an additional free spin with every gas-up, meeting the minimum spending requirement of P250.
\nPrizes up for grabs include fuel products worth P100,000 (three winners), P10,000 (15 winners), P1,000 (300 winners), P500 (300 winners), P200 (600 winners), P100 (3,000 winners), and P50 (6,000 winners).
\n\u201cUnioil Petroleum is proud to be the third largest petroleum company\u2026 We attribute this success to the loyalty and trust of our customers,\u201d said Unioil Petroleum Vice-President for Corporate Marketing Eduardo Pasion. \u201cThe Fill and Win Promo is our way of expressing gratitude to our customers and giving back to the community that has supported us throughout our journey.\u201d
\nThe promo runs until Dec. 31, 2023. For more information, visit https://unioil.com/news/unioil-fill-and-win-2023-promo-mechanics.
\n", "content_text": "THE THIRD largest petroleum company in the country (per a 2023 report of the Department of Energy) is staging its \u201cFill and Win\u201d campaign, \u201ca token of appreciation for the unwavering support of\u2026 valued customers,\u201d said the company in a release.\nCustomers can win over 100 prizes daily. For every P250 spend, whether on fuel or lubricants, customers are entitled to a spin entry. The receipt includes a QR code at the bottom. By scanning the QR code, these entries are credited to the customer\u2019s registered account on Unioil\u2019s gamified website. Unioil loyalty card members enjoy an extra perk \u2014 an additional free spin with every gas-up, meeting the minimum spending requirement of P250.\nPrizes up for grabs include fuel products worth P100,000 (three winners), P10,000 (15 winners), P1,000 (300 winners), P500 (300 winners), P200 (600 winners), P100 (3,000 winners), and P50 (6,000 winners).\n\u201cUnioil Petroleum is proud to be the third largest petroleum company\u2026 We attribute this success to the loyalty and trust of our customers,\u201d said Unioil Petroleum Vice-President for Corporate Marketing Eduardo Pasion. \u201cThe Fill and Win Promo is our way of expressing gratitude to our customers and giving back to the community that has supported us throughout our journey.\u201d\nThe promo runs until Dec. 31, 2023. For more information, visit https://unioil.com/news/unioil-fill-and-win-2023-promo-mechanics.", "date_published": "2023-12-04T00:01:37+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-03T14:26:04+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_image7.jpg", "tags": [ "Dashboard", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=559659", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/11/27/559659/generating-momentum-in-electric-vehicles/", "title": "Generating momentum in electric vehicles", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\n![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image1-1.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image2-1.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image3-1.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image4-1.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image5-1.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image6.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image7.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image8.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image9.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image10.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image11.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image12.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ELECTRIC VEHICLE Association of the Philippines (EVAP) Chairman Rommel Juan took his place at the resource persons\u2019 table for the traditional Q&A with members of the media. He was late because he had just attended one of the ancillary events (an unveiling of a brand\u2019s electrified vehicles) which happened at the same time.
\nSmiling, Mr. Juan later took the microphone, and expressed gratitude to everyone involved in making the show possible \u2014 and successful. He marveled at how things have changed since the first Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS) press conference was held at the basketball court of Meralco\u2019s headquarters in Pasig City many years ago.
\nFor some time now, the country\u2019s \u201cbiggest annual conference focused on promoting electric vehicles in the country\u201d has been calling the huge SMX Convention Center Manila home. Based on this alone, one can already reckon the event\u2019s growth trajectory over the years.
\nThis may well be the narrative of the journey to electrification of mobility in the Philippines, too.
\nWhen it was but a pipe dream for many Filipinos, EVAP was slugging it out \u2014 trying to get the word out and lobbying for more favorable conditions to help open the EV floodgates.
\nHappily, as the 11th staging of the EVS commenced last month, it did so amid a myriad of positive changes in the EV scene. Legislation, executive fiat, and an undoubtedly more informed market are accelerating the pace of adoption.
\nThat was exactly the theme of this year\u2019s summit: \u201cPlug in and Accelerate.\u201d
\nFor the longest time, we\u2019ve often heard the local EV scene described as nascent. While that arguably still remains to be the case, there\u2019s probably a better word that captures the current state of affairs: burgeoning. Battery electric vehicles used to be, with some exceptions, the sole domain of two ends of the spectrum: novel public utility examples (e-trikes and e-jeepneys), and luxury marques.
\nBut while the majority of car buyers remain content and comfortable with an internal combustion engine rumbling underneath the hood, more are finding themselves open to going electric or, at least, electrified. However, the onus remains firmly upon the state and its lawmakers to ensure the viability of that choice.
\nNonetheless, EVAP anticipates the country to have 6.6 million electric vehicles by 2030, and EVAP President Edmund Araga is confident about reaching this milestone. \u201cWe\u2019re very optimistic that we can achieve that in line with the support of the government\u2019s CREVI (Comprehensive Roadmap for the Electric Vehicle Industry) and EVIS (Electric Vehicle Industry Strategies) which will be launched soon. With this, we have to consider not only four wheels but the two-wheel sector, as more Filipinos (can afford the latter).\u201d
\nEven as more OEMs are joining the local EV fray, Mr. Araga said that EVAP aspires for a slice of the production action. \u201cWe\u2019re looking at local manufacturing for two-wheeled EVs, and that will be a game-changer. Malaki ang market (The market is huge).\u201d
\nThese vehicles, he continued, are a great business tool, especially for small and medium enterprises. Having said that, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is said to be rolling out a strategy to spur the local production of e-jeepneys which, in turn, can fill the gap to be ostensibly left by the traditional jeepneys as they are phased out.
\nAt the start of the year, President Ferdinand \u201cBongbong\u201d Marcos, Jr., through Executive Order No. 12, approved the removal of tariff on imported EVs and the reduction of taxes (down to one percent from three percent) on their parts and components. The move is seen as a much-needed leg up for the segment, rendering the switch to electrified more palatable. In the order, the transport sector was identified as one of the largest sources of air pollution and energy-related greenhouse gas emissions in the country at 34%, with road transportation accounting for 80% of these.
\n\u201cVelocity\u201d asked Senator Sherwin Gatchalian during the Q&A session about what\u2019s next after the expiry of the excise tax break. Will additional legislation be needed to continue to shore up the EV sector here? He explained that there are three components to consider: value-added taxes, excise tax, and tariffs. \u201cThe VAT was never removed, and the excise tax has a limited time period. The theory there is that, at a certain point in time, EVs will become as (price) competitive as an ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicle. So, there\u2019s no need to remove the excise tax anymore.\u201d
\nAs for tariffs? \u201cTariffs were reduced by executive fiat,\u201d the senator replied. \u201c(These can be removed) depending on the situation\u2026 But after the invasion in Ukraine (and) we saw a spike in fuel prices, the executive decided to remove tariffs so that importation of EVs will be competitive. In other words, tariffs are within the ambit of the executive side, excise taxes are within the ambit of the legislative side. In other words, if we see that electric vehicles are still not competitive at a certain point, we can extend the deletion of excise tax.\u201d
\nOne recurring question that hangs like a cloud over our EV aspirations concerns the exorbitant electricity rates in the country \u2014 known to be one of the costliest in the region. Department of Energy (DoE) Director Patrick Aquino posited, \u201cTo be clear, you\u2019ve always heard government explain that the function of our electricity rates is that it\u2019s deregulated. No portion of it receives government funding, and pre-EPIRA (Electric Power Industry Reform Act), we were heavily spending on electricity.
\n\u201cThe choice actually, which was wisely done by our legislators, is to free up those resources so we could plow them back to social services and education. Notwithstanding the current electricity rates that we have, you will see that it\u2019s still more cost-effective to run an electric vehicle on a per-kilowatt, per-kilometer basis when you compare to a per-liter basis.\u201d
\nBy Mr. Aquino\u2019s reckoning, the average per-kilometer cost of running an EV comes out to just under P2. \u201cWhen you compare that to a gasoline or diesel vehicle, it\u2019s four or five pesos or higher. The reference rates there are around P11.50 per kilowatt-hour, P65 for diesel, and P70 for gasoline. The cost advantage is there, so government has been doing additional levers and the excise tax is on the table already, it has been covered by TRAIN (Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion) and EVIDA (Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act). On the part of the executive, it\u2019s the import tariff suspension.\u201d
\nThe key enticement, along with a greener footprint, is a simple calculus: \u201cIt\u2019s still cheaper to operate electric vehicles,\u201d he said.
\nThe DoE has marching orders to shift its focus to renewable energy, which is more indigenous. \u201cThat\u2019s why we\u2019ve set out on an ambitious target of having at least 35% of our power generation come from renewable energy by 2030 and, by 2040 onwards, at least 50%. How do we do this? We have programs on solar PV (photovoltaic cells, which convert sunlight into electricity), streamlining (our) processes, and (look at) ways to generate energy,\u201d he reported.
\nMr. Aquino maintained that the DoE is working with industry stakeholders and partners to lay down the foundation for EVs. Aside from the high cost of electricity, the power grid is also beset with supply problems. To be honest, that will only be exacerbated if EVs continue to grow, and more demand is asked of the grid.
\n\u201cOne of the biggest challenges is if we will roll out direct current fast-charging infrastructure, that\u2019s the one with the biggest dent in terms of electricity consumption,\u201d admitted the official. \u201cThere are also some technical considerations once we deploy them, because there has to be upgrades in the transformers, the lines. That\u2019s what we\u2019re working on.\u201d
\nThere\u2019s a behavioral aspect, too. EV owners need to be cognizant of responsible charging. If charging is done at home and at night, there won\u2019t be a need or pressure to have high-capacity DC chargers scattered around the metropolis.
\nFor Sen. Gatchalian though, the Philippines can\u2019t do without an EV charging infrastructure. \u201cObviously, you can charge overnight,\u201d he said. \u201cBut what if you go to the mall, you go out of town? What if you go to work? Then that becomes a problem. There\u2019s a reason why, when we crafted the EVIDA law, we assigned the Department of Energy as the lead agency, because we foresaw that the problem with the entire EV industry will be charging stations, and the infrastructure. Since the DoE has supervisory authority over all utilities\u2026 they can prescribe policies that will hasten the deployment of charging stations through the country.\u201d
\nMr. Aquino reassured, \u201cBy next year, we will be integrating these additional (EV) requirements in the power distribution development plan, particularly as more of our public utility transport sector shifts to this. Definitely, our public transport sector will need DC fast charging to sustain operations.\u201d
\nTwo- and three-wheelers are, perhaps for the near term, still expected to comprise the bulk of electric vehicles in the Philippines, owing to their utility and pricing. All told though, the number is growing. EVAP reported that EV registrations in the first half of 2023 totaled around 1,200 \u2014 more than the total of the previous two years.
\nFor now though, hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are proving to be the low-hanging fruit. For many car buyers, this is their first foray into electric \u2014 in no small part because of concerns of range, pricing, and the aforementioned charging infrastructure.
\nWhen \u201cVelocity\u201d asked Mr. Araga for the ways to further accelerate the pace of EV adoption within the ambit of the law, he said it\u2019s about taking advantage of legislation and reliefs already in place. \u201cImplementation makes it more possible for us to grow. Rules and regulations are there already, along with standards,\u201d he stressed. \u201cIt\u2019s up to stakeholders and the government to work together on the implementation\u2026 On the manufacturing side, I\u2019m still vocal and optimistic that opportunities for SMEs are here in EVs. They\u2019re very easy to assemble, with only fewer parts and components. I would like to push for localization.\u201d
\nJoined EVAP Chairman Emeritus Ferdi Raquelsantos, \u201cEducation is something we need to provide for drivers and EV owners.\u201d
\nMr. Juan shared that we can learn much from our ASEAN neighbors who are further along in their EV journeys. \u201cWe have been actively going around the region because of AFEVA (Asian Federation of Electric Vehicle Associations), and you know with every visit we learn so much, medyo nakaka-sad (it\u2019s a bit sad)\u00a0 because we can see they\u2019re ahead, but we\u2019re able to benchmark ourselves.
\n\u201cIf you go to Thailand, the taxis are electric. Malaysia produces its own electric motorcycles, Laos has its own local Uber, and EVs grew last year because they ran out of petrol last year \u2014 plus electricity in Laos is so cheap because of the hydropower dams in the Mekong delta. If you go to Indonesia\u2026 they stopped importing nickel because they want to manufacture their own batteries locally. These are things we can learn from.\u201d
\nRegardless, Mr. Juan did underscore all the progress that has been made here. \u201cWe have gone so far with our journey in EVs,\u201d he declared, almost wistfully.
\nBut, of course, we can go a lot further.
\n", "content_text": "1 of 12\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n From left are AC Motors Marketing Director Patrick Manigbas, Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) Chairman Rommel Juan, EVAP President Edmund Araga, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, EVAP Chairman Emeritus Ferdi Raquelsantos, Department of Energy Director Patrick Aquino, and Nissan Philippines General Manager Dax Avenido. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Nissan Philippines President Juan Manuel Hoyos, Bureau of Customs Assistant Commissioner Vincent Maronilla, BYD Philippines and Volkswagen Philippines President Antonio \u2018Toti\u2019 Zara, Mr. Juan, Mr. Araga, and Director Aquino \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Department of Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla delivers a message at the opening of the 11th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Hyundai Ioniq 6 \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n An array of batteries on display \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The Dongfeng EV45 truck proudly declares its defining quality. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Foton Tornado EV \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The Bosch booth featured quality components for EVs. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Kia Philippines Chief Operating Officer Brian Buendia with a Kia EV6 \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Mr. Zara and AC Motors Group Chief Executive Officer Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala flank a BYD Atto 3. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Chery eQ1 \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nYes, they\u2019re gaining more widespread acceptance, but the work is far from over\nELECTRIC VEHICLE Association of the Philippines (EVAP) Chairman Rommel Juan took his place at the resource persons\u2019 table for the traditional Q&A with members of the media. He was late because he had just attended one of the ancillary events (an unveiling of a brand\u2019s electrified vehicles) which happened at the same time.\nSmiling, Mr. Juan later took the microphone, and expressed gratitude to everyone involved in making the show possible \u2014 and successful. He marveled at how things have changed since the first Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS) press conference was held at the basketball court of Meralco\u2019s headquarters in Pasig City many years ago.\nFor some time now, the country\u2019s \u201cbiggest annual conference focused on promoting electric vehicles in the country\u201d has been calling the huge SMX Convention Center Manila home. Based on this alone, one can already reckon the event\u2019s growth trajectory over the years.\nThis may well be the narrative of the journey to electrification of mobility in the Philippines, too.\nWhen it was but a pipe dream for many Filipinos, EVAP was slugging it out \u2014 trying to get the word out and lobbying for more favorable conditions to help open the EV floodgates.\nHappily, as the 11th staging of the EVS commenced last month, it did so amid a myriad of positive changes in the EV scene. Legislation, executive fiat, and an undoubtedly more informed market are accelerating the pace of adoption.\nThat was exactly the theme of this year\u2019s summit: \u201cPlug in and Accelerate.\u201d\nFor the longest time, we\u2019ve often heard the local EV scene described as nascent. While that arguably still remains to be the case, there\u2019s probably a better word that captures the current state of affairs: burgeoning. Battery electric vehicles used to be, with some exceptions, the sole domain of two ends of the spectrum: novel public utility examples (e-trikes and e-jeepneys), and luxury marques.\nBut while the majority of car buyers remain content and comfortable with an internal combustion engine rumbling underneath the hood, more are finding themselves open to going electric or, at least, electrified. However, the onus remains firmly upon the state and its lawmakers to ensure the viability of that choice.\nNonetheless, EVAP anticipates the country to have 6.6 million electric vehicles by 2030, and EVAP President Edmund Araga is confident about reaching this milestone. \u201cWe\u2019re very optimistic that we can achieve that in line with the support of the government\u2019s CREVI (Comprehensive Roadmap for the Electric Vehicle Industry) and EVIS (Electric Vehicle Industry Strategies) which will be launched soon. With this, we have to consider not only four wheels but the two-wheel sector, as more Filipinos (can afford the latter).\u201d\nEven as more OEMs are joining the local EV fray, Mr. Araga said that EVAP aspires for a slice of the production action. \u201cWe\u2019re looking at local manufacturing for two-wheeled EVs, and that will be a game-changer. Malaki ang market (The market is huge).\u201d\nThese vehicles, he continued, are a great business tool, especially for small and medium enterprises. Having said that, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is said to be rolling out a strategy to spur the local production of e-jeepneys which, in turn, can fill the gap to be ostensibly left by the traditional jeepneys as they are phased out.\nAt the start of the year, President Ferdinand \u201cBongbong\u201d Marcos, Jr., through Executive Order No. 12, approved the removal of tariff on imported EVs and the reduction of taxes (down to one percent from three percent) on their parts and components. The move is seen as a much-needed leg up for the segment, rendering the switch to electrified more palatable. In the order, the transport sector was identified as one of the largest sources of air pollution and energy-related greenhouse gas emissions in the country at 34%, with road transportation accounting for 80% of these.\n\u201cVelocity\u201d asked Senator Sherwin Gatchalian during the Q&A session about what\u2019s next after the expiry of the excise tax break. Will additional legislation be needed to continue to shore up the EV sector here? He explained that there are three components to consider: value-added taxes, excise tax, and tariffs. \u201cThe VAT was never removed, and the excise tax has a limited time period. The theory there is that, at a certain point in time, EVs will become as (price) competitive as an ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicle. So, there\u2019s no need to remove the excise tax anymore.\u201d\nAs for tariffs? \u201cTariffs were reduced by executive fiat,\u201d the senator replied. \u201c(These can be removed) depending on the situation\u2026 But after the invasion in Ukraine (and) we saw a spike in fuel prices, the executive decided to remove tariffs so that importation of EVs will be competitive. In other words, tariffs are within the ambit of the executive side, excise taxes are within the ambit of the legislative side. In other words, if we see that electric vehicles are still not competitive at a certain point, we can extend the deletion of excise tax.\u201d\nOne recurring question that hangs like a cloud over our EV aspirations concerns the exorbitant electricity rates in the country \u2014 known to be one of the costliest in the region. Department of Energy (DoE) Director Patrick Aquino posited, \u201cTo be clear, you\u2019ve always heard government explain that the function of our electricity rates is that it\u2019s deregulated. No portion of it receives government funding, and pre-EPIRA (Electric Power Industry Reform Act), we were heavily spending on electricity.\n\u201cThe choice actually, which was wisely done by our legislators, is to free up those resources so we could plow them back to social services and education. Notwithstanding the current electricity rates that we have, you will see that it\u2019s still more cost-effective to run an electric vehicle on a per-kilowatt, per-kilometer basis when you compare to a per-liter basis.\u201d\nBy Mr. Aquino\u2019s reckoning, the average per-kilometer cost of running an EV comes out to just under P2. \u201cWhen you compare that to a gasoline or diesel vehicle, it\u2019s four or five pesos or higher. The reference rates there are around P11.50 per kilowatt-hour, P65 for diesel, and P70 for gasoline. The cost advantage is there, so government has been doing additional levers and the excise tax is on the table already, it has been covered by TRAIN (Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion) and EVIDA (Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act). On the part of the executive, it\u2019s the import tariff suspension.\u201d\nThe key enticement, along with a greener footprint, is a simple calculus: \u201cIt\u2019s still cheaper to operate electric vehicles,\u201d he said.\nThe DoE has marching orders to shift its focus to renewable energy, which is more indigenous. \u201cThat\u2019s why we\u2019ve set out on an ambitious target of having at least 35% of our power generation come from renewable energy by 2030 and, by 2040 onwards, at least 50%. How do we do this? We have programs on solar PV (photovoltaic cells, which convert sunlight into electricity), streamlining (our) processes, and (look at) ways to generate energy,\u201d he reported.\nMr. Aquino maintained that the DoE is working with industry stakeholders and partners to lay down the foundation for EVs. Aside from the high cost of electricity, the power grid is also beset with supply problems. To be honest, that will only be exacerbated if EVs continue to grow, and more demand is asked of the grid.\n\u201cOne of the biggest challenges is if we will roll out direct current fast-charging infrastructure, that\u2019s the one with the biggest dent in terms of electricity consumption,\u201d admitted the official. \u201cThere are also some technical considerations once we deploy them, because there has to be upgrades in the transformers, the lines. That\u2019s what we\u2019re working on.\u201d\nThere\u2019s a behavioral aspect, too. EV owners need to be cognizant of responsible charging. If charging is done at home and at night, there won\u2019t be a need or pressure to have high-capacity DC chargers scattered around the metropolis.\nFor Sen. Gatchalian though, the Philippines can\u2019t do without an EV charging infrastructure. \u201cObviously, you can charge overnight,\u201d he said. \u201cBut what if you go to the mall, you go out of town? What if you go to work? Then that becomes a problem. There\u2019s a reason why, when we crafted the EVIDA law, we assigned the Department of Energy as the lead agency, because we foresaw that the problem with the entire EV industry will be charging stations, and the infrastructure. Since the DoE has supervisory authority over all utilities\u2026 they can prescribe policies that will hasten the deployment of charging stations through the country.\u201d\nMr. Aquino reassured, \u201cBy next year, we will be integrating these additional (EV) requirements in the power distribution development plan, particularly as more of our public utility transport sector shifts to this. Definitely, our public transport sector will need DC fast charging to sustain operations.\u201d\nTwo- and three-wheelers are, perhaps for the near term, still expected to comprise the bulk of electric vehicles in the Philippines, owing to their utility and pricing. All told though, the number is growing. EVAP reported that EV registrations in the first half of 2023 totaled around 1,200 \u2014 more than the total of the previous two years.\nFor now though, hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are proving to be the low-hanging fruit. For many car buyers, this is their first foray into electric \u2014 in no small part because of concerns of range, pricing, and the aforementioned charging infrastructure.\nWhen \u201cVelocity\u201d asked Mr. Araga for the ways to further accelerate the pace of EV adoption within the ambit of the law, he said it\u2019s about taking advantage of legislation and reliefs already in place. \u201cImplementation makes it more possible for us to grow. Rules and regulations are there already, along with standards,\u201d he stressed. \u201cIt\u2019s up to stakeholders and the government to work together on the implementation\u2026 On the manufacturing side, I\u2019m still vocal and optimistic that opportunities for SMEs are here in EVs. They\u2019re very easy to assemble, with only fewer parts and components. I would like to push for localization.\u201d\nJoined EVAP Chairman Emeritus Ferdi Raquelsantos, \u201cEducation is something we need to provide for drivers and EV owners.\u201d\nMr. Juan shared that we can learn much from our ASEAN neighbors who are further along in their EV journeys. \u201cWe have been actively going around the region because of AFEVA (Asian Federation of Electric Vehicle Associations), and you know with every visit we learn so much, medyo nakaka-sad (it\u2019s a bit sad)\u00a0 because we can see they\u2019re ahead, but we\u2019re able to benchmark ourselves.\n\u201cIf you go to Thailand, the taxis are electric. Malaysia produces its own electric motorcycles, Laos has its own local Uber, and EVs grew last year because they ran out of petrol last year \u2014 plus electricity in Laos is so cheap because of the hydropower dams in the Mekong delta. If you go to Indonesia\u2026 they stopped importing nickel because they want to manufacture their own batteries locally. These are things we can learn from.\u201d\nRegardless, Mr. Juan did underscore all the progress that has been made here. \u201cWe have gone so far with our journey in EVs,\u201d he declared, almost wistfully.\nBut, of course, we can go a lot further.", "date_published": "2023-11-27T00:02:52+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-11-26T14:14:25+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image1-1.jpg", "tags": [ "Kap Maceda Aguila", "Talk Box", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ], "summary": "ELECTRIC VEHICLE Association of the Philippines (EVAP) Chairman Rommel Juan took his place at the resource persons\u2019 table for the traditional Q&A with members of the media. He was late because he had just attended one of the ancillary events (an unveiling of a brand\u2019s electrified vehicles) which happened at the same time." }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=559658", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/11/27/559658/picking-up-on-exclusivity-and-style/", "title": "Picking up on exclusivity and style", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\nBy Dylan Afuang
\nEXTERIOR ENHANCEMENTS and a limited production run distinguish the D-Max Limited, the latest variant added to the pickup truck model by Isuzu Philippines Corp. (IPC), from the now seven trims that comprise the model range.
\nAvailable exclusively in a black paint finish, the Isuzu D-Max Limited aims to present a rugged appeal through accessories such as a blackout grille bearing a red Isuzu logo, red cabin floor mats, variant-exclusive side steps, and gray decals drawn across the vehicle\u2019s sides and tailgate.
\nThe truck\u2019s lofty 260-mm ground clearance can be attributed to its new nitrogen-charged shock absorbers, as well as black 17-inch wheels wrapped in thick 295/70-series Yokohama Geolandar tires that promise to improve the grip of this rear-wheel-drive truck on more extreme terrain.
\nBased on the D-Max 3.0L 4×2 LS-A variant, this variant is priced at P1.58 million and, as IPC Assistant Division Head for Sales Robert D. Carlos told the media at the sidelines of the model\u2019s launch, comes only in 200 examples.
\nIPC might retail more units of the accessorized truck should there be greater customer demand for it, the executive added. The variant has also benefited from the excise tax exemption on double-cab pickup trucks, Mr. Carlos confirmed to \u201cVelocity\u201d when asked about the model\u2019s pricing.
\nSince it\u2019s based on the 4×2 LS-A trim, the D-Max Limited is powered by the same 3.0-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, which courses its 187hp and 450Nm of torque to the rear wheels through a six-speed Aisin automatic transmission.
\n\u201cIn the pickup market, the volume driver is the 4×2 models,\u201d Mr. Carlos said in reply to a question from \u201cVelocity\u201d about the reason behind the D-Max Limited coming only in two-wheel-drive configuration amid four-wheel-drive competition.
\n\u201cIn the work-and-leisure setting, a 4×2 is a vehicle you can drive Monday to Friday in the city, and camping for the weekend. That\u2019s why we launched the Limited as a 4×2,\u201d he added, suggesting that two-wheel-drive vehicles are ideal for the majority of drivers as they outnumber those who regularly drive off-road.
\nElsewhere, the model continues its similarities with the LS-A version, being equipped with halogen headlights and foglights, gray door handles, gray side mirror caps, a bedliner, a cargo extender, over-fenders, and roof rails that Isuzu claimed can carry 100kg.
\nThe cabin\u2019s dashboard features a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The screen can also project a clinometer, which measures the pickup\u2019s angle of elevation, a feature commonly seen in vehicles tailored to travel up mountains.
\nThe driver faces a 4.2-inch multi-info display, while a six-speaker sound system, bucket front seats, fabric upholstery, rear A/C vents, a rear USB charging port, a rear center armrest, and a tilt and telescopic steering column comprise the list of equipment.
\nSafety is provided by a pair of airbags up front, anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, hill-start assist, hill-descent control, front and rear skid plates, rear parking sensors, and a reverse camera.
\n", "content_text": "1 of 3\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The Isuzu D-Max Limited is exclusively available with a black paint finish. \u2014 PHOTO FROM ISUZU PHILIPPINES CORP.\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n These striking doormats are among the touches. \u2014 PHOTO FROM ISUZU PHILIPPINES CORP.\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The D-Max Limited is based on the 3.0L 4x2 LS-A variant and is priced at P1.58 million. \u2014 PHOTO FROM ISUZU PHILIPPINES CORP.\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nIsuzu PHL introduces accessorized, 200-unit D-Max Limited\nBy Dylan Afuang\nEXTERIOR ENHANCEMENTS and a limited production run distinguish the D-Max Limited, the latest variant added to the pickup truck model by Isuzu Philippines Corp. (IPC), from the now seven trims that comprise the model range.\nAvailable exclusively in a black paint finish, the Isuzu D-Max Limited aims to present a rugged appeal through accessories such as a blackout grille bearing a red Isuzu logo, red cabin floor mats, variant-exclusive side steps, and gray decals drawn across the vehicle\u2019s sides and tailgate.\nThe truck\u2019s lofty 260-mm ground clearance can be attributed to its new nitrogen-charged shock absorbers, as well as black 17-inch wheels wrapped in thick 295/70-series Yokohama Geolandar tires that promise to improve the grip of this rear-wheel-drive truck on more extreme terrain.\nBased on the D-Max 3.0L 4×2 LS-A variant, this variant is priced at P1.58 million and, as IPC Assistant Division Head for Sales Robert D. Carlos told the media at the sidelines of the model\u2019s launch, comes only in 200 examples.\nIPC might retail more units of the accessorized truck should there be greater customer demand for it, the executive added. The variant has also benefited from the excise tax exemption on double-cab pickup trucks, Mr. Carlos confirmed to \u201cVelocity\u201d when asked about the model\u2019s pricing.\nSince it\u2019s based on the 4×2 LS-A trim, the D-Max Limited is powered by the same 3.0-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, which courses its 187hp and 450Nm of torque to the rear wheels through a six-speed Aisin automatic transmission.\n\u201cIn the pickup market, the volume driver is the 4×2 models,\u201d Mr. Carlos said in reply to a question from \u201cVelocity\u201d about the reason behind the D-Max Limited coming only in two-wheel-drive configuration amid four-wheel-drive competition.\n\u201cIn the work-and-leisure setting, a 4×2 is a vehicle you can drive Monday to Friday in the city, and camping for the weekend. That\u2019s why we launched the Limited as a 4×2,\u201d he added, suggesting that two-wheel-drive vehicles are ideal for the majority of drivers as they outnumber those who regularly drive off-road.\nElsewhere, the model continues its similarities with the LS-A version, being equipped with halogen headlights and foglights, gray door handles, gray side mirror caps, a bedliner, a cargo extender, over-fenders, and roof rails that Isuzu claimed can carry 100kg.\nThe cabin\u2019s dashboard features a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The screen can also project a clinometer, which measures the pickup\u2019s angle of elevation, a feature commonly seen in vehicles tailored to travel up mountains.\nThe driver faces a 4.2-inch multi-info display, while a six-speaker sound system, bucket front seats, fabric upholstery, rear A/C vents, a rear USB charging port, a rear center armrest, and a tilt and telescopic steering column comprise the list of equipment.\nSafety is provided by a pair of airbags up front, anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, hill-start assist, hill-descent control, front and rear skid plates, rear parking sensors, and a reverse camera.", "date_published": "2023-11-27T00:01:51+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-11-26T14:15:24+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE2_image1-1.jpg", "tags": [ "Brand New", "Dylan Afuang", "Featured2", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ], "summary": "EXTERIOR ENHANCEMENTS and a limited production run distinguish the D-Max Limited, the latest variant added to the pickup truck model by Isuzu Philippines Corp. (IPC), from the now seven trims that comprise the model range." }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=558318", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/11/20/558318/a-trip-to-the-toyota-technical-center-shimoyama-part-2-save-the-manuals-and-make-cars-neo/", "title": "A trip to the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama (Part 2): Save the manuals, and make cars NEO", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\nMANUAL BEV
\nThe liftback Toyota AE86 (also known as the Toyota Corolla Levin) looks pristine from the outside, belying the four decades since its debut \u2014 when it first captured the imagination of what would be a devoted fan base to this day.
This particular one is growling as I get on board and am strapped onto the front passenger seat. I note that the car even dons roll bars to complete the sporty look.
\nThe driver is grinning broadly at me as I nod my head to indicate I\u2019m ready. I look around the cabin and see what appears to be a large, exposed engine right behind us where the rear seats should be, then wonder: Shouldn\u2019t the cabin be insanely warm, nay, hot, I asked myself.
\nWith the passenger door shut, the AE86 sets off like a rocket, the driver adroitly working the manual shifter. The engine note is superb and satisfying \u2014 matching the aggressive move of the vehicle as it makes a sweeping left turn, almost hugging the orange cones that mark our playground in this part of the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama. The tires squeal a bit but resist the momentum to go sideways.
\nI smile and thank the driver before alighting from the AE86. I remember being told that it was a battery electric vehicle, but I am still in a daze because my senses registered otherwise.
\nBut indeed, emblazoned on the AE86 side in Japanese characters are \u201celectric vehicle\u201d and \u201cexperimental,\u201d along with a simple \u201cEV\u201d branding on the lower part of the door near the rocker panel. Yes, I have just been driven aboard a manual-shifting, ICE (internal combustion engine)-sounding electric vehicle.
\nLater, in another location, we take our turns driving a Lexus UX crossover. A manual gear shift juts out beside me, and a clutch pedal confirms that it\u2019s a manual. This time, I\u2019m in the driver\u2019s seat. However, there\u2019s also a \u201cD\u201d button below the shifter. What\u2019s going on here? The engineer beside me laughs and asks me to turn off the engine, then step on the clutch as I restart it. A roar ensues as the engine comes to life. \u201cYou\u2019re on manual mode,\u201d he reports, and smiles broadly.
\nWhat\u2019s the big deal, you ask?
\nWell, again, this is a battery electric vehicle. There\u2019s no ICE of any sort, shape, or form under the hood of this manual transmission.
\nSave the manuals, you say? Toyota and Lexus hear you.
\nI maneuver the UX past pylons marking the end of the pitlane of this particular test circuit in this 1,600-acre laboratory and, yes, playground for Toyota and Lexus R&D. For sure, there\u2019s a bunch of test tracks, strips, and pads here \u2014 and I\u2019m entering what is presumably the speed oval, evidenced by the steeply banking curve that can be taken only at high velocity.
\nBut there\u2019s no compunction to go fast this time; on the agenda is to feel and experience the progress the car maker has made on several fronts \u2014 including, yes, manual BEVs. Obviously, the advent of full electrics is seen as a wet blanket by many manual-shift fans. The almost forgone conclusion that one day everything that moves will be battery-powered is further raining on the parade of holdouts (like this writer, who drives a manual).
\nWell, not necessarily, says Toyota.
\nBack to our UX, it quickly proves to be a complete sensorial package that delivers all the good stuff you know about manuals \u2014 down to providing some degree of shift shock. There\u2019s an aural feedback as well of increasing (though phantom) engine revs, delivered through the speakers within.
\nPerhaps even more impressive: In one of the circuit straights, I am asked to downshift at speed to see what happens. I let out a \u201cwow\u201d upon feeling the unmistakable deceleration brought about by \u201cengine braking.\u201d Again, this is all phantom stuff bereft of the mechanical (i.e. real) cause of the deceleration. Everything but the soot and smoke.
\nTo be sure, I have a \u201cmind-blown\u201d look as I alight from the UX. I understandably have questions as well, which I promptly convey to the engineer in charge. What\u2019s the soonest we can have a production version of the manual BEV tech?
\n\u201cWe already have the plan, but we cannot answer clearly which year. In a few years\u2019 time\u2026 We\u2019re still in the development phase (before) mass production,\u201d says Advance Electrification Engineering Division Number 2 Project Manager Yoichiro Isami.
\nThis much we are allowed to know: The manual BEV feature will debut in the Lexus RZ, and the existing paddle-shift system employs tech that is \u201cvery similar\u201d to this. Mr. Isami added that at some point, we should be seeing GR models get this technology as well.
\nSo then I ask, why was this feature developed? Was there a clamor from existing customers to have manual BEVs? \u201cIt\u2019s not that customers asked us to,\u201d he continues. \u201cThe brand concept for Lexus is that we want to expand the experience of customers so they can enjoy the fun of maneuvering Lexus BEVs; the control of driving and fun of running the car. We have been very much into pursuing that and we want to expand that value \u2014 expand the range \u2014 in various ways.\u201d
\nNEO STEER
\nInclusivity is a clear theme not just for the biannual Japan Mobility Show or JMS (and this is exactly among the reasons why it was rechristened from its original \u201cTokyo Motor Show\u201d moniker), but Toyota Motor Corp. (TMC) in particular. \u201cOur mission at Toyota is to meet the needs of customers around the world and continue delivering diverse mobility options,\u201d underscored TMC President and CEO Koji Sato in his speech at the brand\u2019s Tokyo Big Sight booth during the JMS a couple of weeks ago. \u201cThis is the multi-pathway approach to the future that Toyota envisions.\u201d
He continued, \u201cThere are many diverse needs and values as there are people in the world\u2026 The future is not decided by someone else; the future is something we all create.\u201d
\nToyota has always been consistent about including the differently abled when talking about mobility. In fact, before the COVID-19 pandemic happened, the firm had earnestly embarked on its \u201cStart Your Impossible\u201d campaign as a run-up to what would have been Japan\u2019s 2020 hosting of the Olympics. It had famously brought together para-athletes from various countries (including our own para-swimming champ Ernie Gawilan) to sponsor their quest for gold and even their advocacies.
\nBefore the pandemic scuttled 2020 for many of us, Toyota was already furthering its \u201ccommitment to supporting the creation of a more inclusive and sustainable society in which everyone can challenge their impossible,\u201d talking about a \u201cbarrier-free society.\u201d
\nFast-forward to JMS, one of the features at the Toyota booth is, at first glance, a driving game featuring a yoke-type steering wheel that collected the throttle and brake controls. Called NEO Steer, this is a whole new cockpit concept that enables pedal-free operation of a vehicle, opening doors to those with lower-limb impairment. \u201cA sweeping field of vision made possible by the steering wheel\u2019s irregular profile, and the roomy pedal-free floor space, enable an unrestricted driving position along with smooth entry and exit,\u201d shares Toyota in a release.
\nBack to Shimoyama, we are able to try more than just a video simulator. With an engineer in the front passenger seat, I pilot another Lexus RZ \u2014 this one featuring the technology. Upon buckling in, my feet instantly try to feel for the non-existent pedals, and a sort of initial panic sets in. My muscle memory is causing me to feel alarm.
\nBut the fear dissipates when I am taught the basics of operation (see the rendering), then we set off. There\u2019s obviously a learning curve, but even if you\u2019re not a gamer who should be familiar with all sorts of controllers, the NEO Steer system is pretty easy to adjust to. However, we did give some feedback that the brake lever needs to be a little more subtle so we could feather it. Having said that, the system proves fairly straightforward to learn.
\nToyota and Lexus engineers are very coy about timelines and such. It\u2019s quite early days if you ask them. Besides, the exercise is about showcasing feature sets that they\u2019re feverishly working on \u2014 even if they are still a bit raw. \u201cWe want the functionalities up really quick and get people such as the media inside the car,\u201d submits Lexus Electrified Development Division Group Manager Yoichiro Kasai. It\u2019s about finding out what\u2019s usable in a real-world situation, and yes, feedback from people such as media practitioners will influence the final version of the product.
\nEven if Toyota and Lexus aren\u2019t saying exactly when, the presumably near future looks plenty exciting for mobility.
\n", "content_text": "1 of 3\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n This classic Toyota AE86 may not look the part, but it\u2019s a battery electric vehicle \u2014 and boasts a \u201cmanual transmission.\u201d \u2014 PHOTO FROM TOYOTA MOTOR CORP.\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Stick shift inside: This manual-transmission Lexus UX is also a BEV. \u2014 PHOTO FROM TOYOTA MOTOR CORP.\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n This rendering of the NEO Steer yoke system shows how engineers at Toyota and Lexus are working on enabling those with impaired lower limbs to get behind the wheel of a vehicle. \u2014 PHOTO FROM TOYOTA MOTOR CORP.\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nGoing electric doesn\u2019t mean ditching the stick shift, but you can actually lose the pedals\nMANUAL BEV\nThe liftback Toyota AE86 (also known as the Toyota Corolla Levin) looks pristine from the outside, belying the four decades since its debut \u2014 when it first captured the imagination of what would be a devoted fan base to this day.\nThis particular one is growling as I get on board and am strapped onto the front passenger seat. I note that the car even dons roll bars to complete the sporty look.\nThe driver is grinning broadly at me as I nod my head to indicate I\u2019m ready. I look around the cabin and see what appears to be a large, exposed engine right behind us where the rear seats should be, then wonder: Shouldn\u2019t the cabin be insanely warm, nay, hot, I asked myself.\nWith the passenger door shut, the AE86 sets off like a rocket, the driver adroitly working the manual shifter. The engine note is superb and satisfying \u2014 matching the aggressive move of the vehicle as it makes a sweeping left turn, almost hugging the orange cones that mark our playground in this part of the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama. The tires squeal a bit but resist the momentum to go sideways.\nI smile and thank the driver before alighting from the AE86. I remember being told that it was a battery electric vehicle, but I am still in a daze because my senses registered otherwise.\nBut indeed, emblazoned on the AE86 side in Japanese characters are \u201celectric vehicle\u201d and \u201cexperimental,\u201d along with a simple \u201cEV\u201d branding on the lower part of the door near the rocker panel. Yes, I have just been driven aboard a manual-shifting, ICE (internal combustion engine)-sounding electric vehicle.\nLater, in another location, we take our turns driving a Lexus UX crossover. A manual gear shift juts out beside me, and a clutch pedal confirms that it\u2019s a manual. This time, I\u2019m in the driver\u2019s seat. However, there\u2019s also a \u201cD\u201d button below the shifter. What\u2019s going on here? The engineer beside me laughs and asks me to turn off the engine, then step on the clutch as I restart it. A roar ensues as the engine comes to life. \u201cYou\u2019re on manual mode,\u201d he reports, and smiles broadly.\nWhat\u2019s the big deal, you ask?\nWell, again, this is a battery electric vehicle. There\u2019s no ICE of any sort, shape, or form under the hood of this manual transmission.\nSave the manuals, you say? Toyota and Lexus hear you.\nI maneuver the UX past pylons marking the end of the pitlane of this particular test circuit in this 1,600-acre laboratory and, yes, playground for Toyota and Lexus R&D. For sure, there\u2019s a bunch of test tracks, strips, and pads here \u2014 and I\u2019m entering what is presumably the speed oval, evidenced by the steeply banking curve that can be taken only at high velocity.\nBut there\u2019s no compunction to go fast this time; on the agenda is to feel and experience the progress the car maker has made on several fronts \u2014 including, yes, manual BEVs. Obviously, the advent of full electrics is seen as a wet blanket by many manual-shift fans. The almost forgone conclusion that one day everything that moves will be battery-powered is further raining on the parade of holdouts (like this writer, who drives a manual).\nWell, not necessarily, says Toyota.\nBack to our UX, it quickly proves to be a complete sensorial package that delivers all the good stuff you know about manuals \u2014 down to providing some degree of shift shock. There\u2019s an aural feedback as well of increasing (though phantom) engine revs, delivered through the speakers within.\nPerhaps even more impressive: In one of the circuit straights, I am asked to downshift at speed to see what happens. I let out a \u201cwow\u201d upon feeling the unmistakable deceleration brought about by \u201cengine braking.\u201d Again, this is all phantom stuff bereft of the mechanical (i.e. real) cause of the deceleration. Everything but the soot and smoke.\nTo be sure, I have a \u201cmind-blown\u201d look as I alight from the UX. I understandably have questions as well, which I promptly convey to the engineer in charge. What\u2019s the soonest we can have a production version of the manual BEV tech?\n\u201cWe already have the plan, but we cannot answer clearly which year. In a few years\u2019 time\u2026 We\u2019re still in the development phase (before) mass production,\u201d says Advance Electrification Engineering Division Number 2 Project Manager Yoichiro Isami.\nThis much we are allowed to know: The manual BEV feature will debut in the Lexus RZ, and the existing paddle-shift system employs tech that is \u201cvery similar\u201d to this. Mr. Isami added that at some point, we should be seeing GR models get this technology as well.\nSo then I ask, why was this feature developed? Was there a clamor from existing customers to have manual BEVs? \u201cIt\u2019s not that customers asked us to,\u201d he continues. \u201cThe brand concept for Lexus is that we want to expand the experience of customers so they can enjoy the fun of maneuvering Lexus BEVs; the control of driving and fun of running the car. We have been very much into pursuing that and we want to expand that value \u2014 expand the range \u2014 in various ways.\u201d\nNEO STEER\nInclusivity is a clear theme not just for the biannual Japan Mobility Show or JMS (and this is exactly among the reasons why it was rechristened from its original \u201cTokyo Motor Show\u201d moniker), but Toyota Motor Corp. (TMC) in particular. \u201cOur mission at Toyota is to meet the needs of customers around the world and continue delivering diverse mobility options,\u201d underscored TMC President and CEO Koji Sato in his speech at the brand\u2019s Tokyo Big Sight booth during the JMS a couple of weeks ago. \u201cThis is the multi-pathway approach to the future that Toyota envisions.\u201d\nHe continued, \u201cThere are many diverse needs and values as there are people in the world\u2026 The future is not decided by someone else; the future is something we all create.\u201d\nToyota has always been consistent about including the differently abled when talking about mobility. In fact, before the COVID-19 pandemic happened, the firm had earnestly embarked on its \u201cStart Your Impossible\u201d campaign as a run-up to what would have been Japan\u2019s 2020 hosting of the Olympics. It had famously brought together para-athletes from various countries (including our own para-swimming champ Ernie Gawilan) to sponsor their quest for gold and even their advocacies.\nBefore the pandemic scuttled 2020 for many of us, Toyota was already furthering its \u201ccommitment to supporting the creation of a more inclusive and sustainable society in which everyone can challenge their impossible,\u201d talking about a \u201cbarrier-free society.\u201d\nFast-forward to JMS, one of the features at the Toyota booth is, at first glance, a driving game featuring a yoke-type steering wheel that collected the throttle and brake controls. Called NEO Steer, this is a whole new cockpit concept that enables pedal-free operation of a vehicle, opening doors to those with lower-limb impairment. \u201cA sweeping field of vision made possible by the steering wheel\u2019s irregular profile, and the roomy pedal-free floor space, enable an unrestricted driving position along with smooth entry and exit,\u201d shares Toyota in a release.\nBack to Shimoyama, we are able to try more than just a video simulator. With an engineer in the front passenger seat, I pilot another Lexus RZ \u2014 this one featuring the technology. Upon buckling in, my feet instantly try to feel for the non-existent pedals, and a sort of initial panic sets in. My muscle memory is causing me to feel alarm.\nBut the fear dissipates when I am taught the basics of operation (see the rendering), then we set off. There\u2019s obviously a learning curve, but even if you\u2019re not a gamer who should be familiar with all sorts of controllers, the NEO Steer system is pretty easy to adjust to. However, we did give some feedback that the brake lever needs to be a little more subtle so we could feather it. Having said that, the system proves fairly straightforward to learn.\nToyota and Lexus engineers are very coy about timelines and such. It\u2019s quite early days if you ask them. Besides, the exercise is about showcasing feature sets that they\u2019re feverishly working on \u2014 even if they are still a bit raw. \u201cWe want the functionalities up really quick and get people such as the media inside the car,\u201d submits Lexus Electrified Development Division Group Manager Yoichiro Kasai. It\u2019s about finding out what\u2019s usable in a real-world situation, and yes, feedback from people such as media practitioners will influence the final version of the product.\nEven if Toyota and Lexus aren\u2019t saying exactly when, the presumably near future looks plenty exciting for mobility.", "date_published": "2023-11-20T00:06:17+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-11-19T14:47:20+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image1.jpg", "tags": [ "Kap Maceda Aguila", "Talk Box", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ], "summary": "The liftback Toyota AE86 (also known as the Toyota Corolla Levin) looks pristine from the outside, belying the four decades since its debut \u2014 when it first captured the imagination of what would be a devoted fan base to this day." }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=558317", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/11/20/558317/updated-google-maps-better-assists-those-on-wheels-or-on-foot/", "title": "Updated Google Maps better assists those on wheels or on foot", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\nBy Dylan Afuang
\nWITH UPDATES to its Maps application, Google aims to help drivers, cyclists, and even pedestrians get around in a smarter and greener manner.
\nUpdates recently introduced to Google Maps include additional information about electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, use of augmented reality (AR) technology whose objective is to create a more engaging navigation experience, as well as the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI).
\n\u201cToday, with the power of AI, we\u2019re announcing even more updates so you can confidently plan and navigate trips, make sustainable choices, and get quick inspiration for things to do,\u201d Geo VP and General Manager Chris Phillips stated in a release.
\nGeo is the tech company\u2019s arm that develops its Maps, Earth, and Street View applications. The new features, which the company said will be gradually rolled out globally, were introduced in a recent briefing attended by Mr. Phillips with international and local media.
\nWhile these features are not yet available in the Philippines, Mr. Phillips said that the tech company has started activating the updates in locations where the company possesses better imagery. Google intends to bring the updates to all markets that it serves, the executive assured, so it\u2019s likely that the Philippines will see these features soon.
\nWith the updated Maps, EV drivers using Android and iOS devices will be informed of charging station information, including the chargers\u2019 compatibility with their vehicles and the speed at which the station charges. These updates have begun rolling out globally on iOS and Android in locations where EV charging station information is available, Google said.
\nDrivers of any kind of vehicle, or those who drive cars with Google Built-in, the company\u2019s own operating system integrated in cars\u2019 infotainment system sold in select markets, will also benefit from more detailed surroundings depicted by Maps.
\nIn addition to updated colors throughout the map, the tool will now display a more realistic animation of a building one is driving toward, and bridges or exits on the highway and their lane markings.
\nThe above updates started rolling out in 12 countries, including the US, Canada, France and Germany; in Europe, Google Maps\u2019 AI-powered speed limit information has expanded to 20 countries.
\nGoogle Maps\u2019 new Immersive View feature presents an aerial and street view of a place for those who are driving, cycling, or walking.
\n\u201cYou can prepare for each turn as if you were there with detailed, visual turn-by-turn directions, and use the time slider to plan when to head out based on helpful information, like simulated traffic and weather conditions,\u201d the company explained.
\nImmersive View for routes started rolling out in Amsterdam, Barcelona, Dublin, Florence, Las Vegas, London, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Paris, San Francisco, San Jose, Seattle, Tokyo, and Venice on Android and iOS, the company added.
\nGoogle claimed that its Lens in Maps (formerly known as Search with Live View) will let users utilize AR and AI to explore new communities. The functionality will soon be available in over 50 more cities, such as Taipei, Austin, Las Vegas, Rome, S\u00e3o Paulo, and Las Vegas.
\nFor some searches, Google Maps will also offer information topically arranged to assist users in \u201cfinding inspiration and discovering new places.\u201d Developers may now design their own immersive experiences with the introduction of Photorealistic 3D Tiles in Google Maps Platform a few weeks ago.
\n", "content_text": "1 of 2\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The updated app will now feature better imagery. \u2014 IMAGE FROM GOOGLE\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Where available, users can even look for the nearest charging station for their EVs. \u2014 IMAGE FROM GOOGLE\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nGuidance for EV drivers and improved imagery introduced to navigation app\nBy Dylan Afuang \nWITH UPDATES to its Maps application, Google aims to help drivers, cyclists, and even pedestrians get around in a smarter and greener manner. \nUpdates recently introduced to Google Maps include additional information about electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, use of augmented reality (AR) technology whose objective is to create a more engaging navigation experience, as well as the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI).\n\u201cToday, with the power of AI, we\u2019re announcing even more updates so you can confidently plan and navigate trips, make sustainable choices, and get quick inspiration for things to do,\u201d Geo VP and General Manager Chris Phillips stated in a release.\nGeo is the tech company\u2019s arm that develops its Maps, Earth, and Street View applications. The new features, which the company said will be gradually rolled out globally, were introduced in a recent briefing attended by Mr. Phillips with international and local media.\nWhile these features are not yet available in the Philippines, Mr. Phillips said that the tech company has started activating the updates in locations where the company possesses better imagery. Google intends to bring the updates to all markets that it serves, the executive assured, so it\u2019s likely that the Philippines will see these features soon.\nWith the updated Maps, EV drivers using Android and iOS devices will be informed of charging station information, including the chargers\u2019 compatibility with their vehicles and the speed at which the station charges. These updates have begun rolling out globally on iOS and Android in locations where EV charging station information is available, Google said.\nDrivers of any kind of vehicle, or those who drive cars with Google Built-in, the company\u2019s own operating system integrated in cars\u2019 infotainment system sold in select markets, will also benefit from more detailed surroundings depicted by Maps.\nIn addition to updated colors throughout the map, the tool will now display a more realistic animation of a building one is driving toward, and bridges or exits on the highway and their lane markings.\nThe above updates started rolling out in 12 countries, including the US, Canada, France and Germany; in Europe, Google Maps\u2019 AI-powered speed limit information has expanded to 20 countries.\nGoogle Maps\u2019 new Immersive View feature presents an aerial and street view of a place for those who are driving, cycling, or walking.\n\u201cYou can prepare for each turn as if you were there with detailed, visual turn-by-turn directions, and use the time slider to plan when to head out based on helpful information, like simulated traffic and weather conditions,\u201d the company explained.\nImmersive View for routes started rolling out in Amsterdam, Barcelona, Dublin, Florence, Las Vegas, London, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Paris, San Francisco, San Jose, Seattle, Tokyo, and Venice on Android and iOS, the company added.\nGoogle claimed that its Lens in Maps (formerly known as Search with Live View) will let users utilize AR and AI to explore new communities. The functionality will soon be available in over 50 more cities, such as Taipei, Austin, Las Vegas, Rome, S\u00e3o Paulo, and Las Vegas.\nFor some searches, Google Maps will also offer information topically arranged to assist users in \u201cfinding inspiration and discovering new places.\u201d Developers may now design their own immersive experiences with the introduction of Photorealistic 3D Tiles in Google Maps Platform a few weeks ago.", "date_published": "2023-11-20T00:05:16+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-11-19T14:39:50+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE2_image2-1.jpg", "tags": [ "Dylan Afuang", "Featured2", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ], "summary": "WITH UPDATES to its Maps application, Google aims to help drivers, cyclists, and even pedestrians get around in a smarter and greener manner." }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=558316", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/11/20/558316/audi-q8-e-tron-gets-top-safety-mark-from-iihs/", "title": "Audi Q8 e-tron gets top safety mark from IIHS", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\nTHE NEW Audi Q8 e-tron SUV and Q8 e-tron Sportback recently received a coveted nod from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) based in the United States, notching the highest 2023 Top Safety Pick+ rating.
\nThe two models joined another pair of 100% electric Audi SUVs, the Audi Q4 e-tron and Q4 e-tron Sportback, in earning the Top Safety Pick+ honor.
\nThe IIHS, a \u201cpreeminent nonprofit organization,\u201d gave the Q8 e-tron SUV and Q8 e-tron Sportback battery electric vehicles, which debuted in the Philippines in August, the top rating based on the vehicles\u2019 crashworthiness, as well as other factors such as crash avoidance and lighting technology.
\nThe criteria for safety evaluations are essentially the same for electric vehicles and combustion-engine-powered models. However, Audi said it \u201cgoes further by ensuring the battery is safeguarded in the event of a crash. The e-tron models\u2019 battery system consists of a rigid housing that not only protects its modules even during a major collision, but also acts as an additional reinforcement for the vehicle\u2019s structure.\u201d
\nStrengthening its award requirements in February this year, the IIHS updated its side crash evaluation to now involve 82% more energy compared to the original test, along with a new nighttime vehicle-to-pedestrian front crash prevention test. The standard crash avoidance systems on the Q8 e-tron SUV and Q8 e-tron Sportback garnered a \u201cSuperior\u201d rating for daytime use and an \u201cAdvanced\u201d rating for nighttime use.
\nTo qualify for the two highest IIHS awards in 2023, a vehicle must also now earn \u201cGood\u201d ratings in the driver- and passenger-side small front overlap and original moderate overlap front collision tests, and come equipped with \u201cAcceptable\u201d or \u201cGood\u201d headlights across all its variants.
\nThe new Q8 e-tron SUV and Q8 e-tron Sportback are the flagship offerings in Audi\u2019s now-extensive range of 100% electric SUVs and crossovers. Defining the latest models are updated design elements, improved efficiency and range, revised motors, more progressive steering, and enhanced chassis control systems.
\nAudi Philippines offers the Q8 in e-tron SUV 55 and e-tron SUV 50 versions.
\nThe Q8 e-tron SUV 55 offers 408hp and 664Nm of torque. Depending on weather, road conditions, terrain and driving styles, the model can travel up to 582km when fully charged. The Q8 e-tron SUV 50, on the other hand, outputs 335hp and 664Nm, and has a driving range of up to 491km when fully charged.
\nThe Q8 e-tron Sportback has the same power and torque ratings as the Q8 e-tron SUV 55, but its driving range is longer, thanks to a more aerodynamic coupe silhouette at the rear which can allow it to travel up to 600km when fully charged.
\n", "content_text": "1 of 2\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The new Audi Vehicle Safety Center in Ingolstadt boasts significantly improved crash-test facilities. \u2014 PHOTO FROM AUDI\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n An Audi Q8 e-tron\u2019s water-wading capability was on display at its introduction to the local market last August. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nTHE NEW Audi Q8 e-tron SUV and Q8 e-tron Sportback recently received a coveted nod from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) based in the United States, notching the highest 2023 Top Safety Pick+ rating.\nThe two models joined another pair of 100% electric Audi SUVs, the Audi Q4 e-tron and Q4 e-tron Sportback, in earning the Top Safety Pick+ honor.\nThe IIHS, a \u201cpreeminent nonprofit organization,\u201d gave the Q8 e-tron SUV and Q8 e-tron Sportback battery electric vehicles, which debuted in the Philippines in August, the top rating based on the vehicles\u2019 crashworthiness, as well as other factors such as crash avoidance and lighting technology.\nThe criteria for safety evaluations are essentially the same for electric vehicles and combustion-engine-powered models. However, Audi said it \u201cgoes further by ensuring the battery is safeguarded in the event of a crash. The e-tron models\u2019 battery system consists of a rigid housing that not only protects its modules even during a major collision, but also acts as an additional reinforcement for the vehicle\u2019s structure.\u201d\nStrengthening its award requirements in February this year, the IIHS updated its side crash evaluation to now involve 82% more energy compared to the original test, along with a new nighttime vehicle-to-pedestrian front crash prevention test. The standard crash avoidance systems on the Q8 e-tron SUV and Q8 e-tron Sportback garnered a \u201cSuperior\u201d rating for daytime use and an \u201cAdvanced\u201d rating for nighttime use.\nTo qualify for the two highest IIHS awards in 2023, a vehicle must also now earn \u201cGood\u201d ratings in the driver- and passenger-side small front overlap and original moderate overlap front collision tests, and come equipped with \u201cAcceptable\u201d or \u201cGood\u201d headlights across all its variants.\nThe new Q8 e-tron SUV and Q8 e-tron Sportback are the flagship offerings in Audi\u2019s now-extensive range of 100% electric SUVs and crossovers. Defining the latest models are updated design elements, improved efficiency and range, revised motors, more progressive steering, and enhanced chassis control systems.\nAudi Philippines offers the Q8 in e-tron SUV 55 and e-tron SUV 50 versions.\nThe Q8 e-tron SUV 55 offers 408hp and 664Nm of torque. Depending on weather, road conditions, terrain and driving styles, the model can travel up to 582km when fully charged. The Q8 e-tron SUV 50, on the other hand, outputs 335hp and 664Nm, and has a driving range of up to 491km when fully charged.\nThe Q8 e-tron Sportback has the same power and torque ratings as the Q8 e-tron SUV 55, but its driving range is longer, thanks to a more aerodynamic coupe silhouette at the rear which can allow it to travel up to 600km when fully charged.", "date_published": "2023-11-20T00:04:16+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-11-19T14:37:40+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image4.jpg", "tags": [ "Featured2", "State of Charge", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=558315", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/11/20/558315/seaoil-puting-kahoy-in-cavite-is-800th-station/", "title": "Seaoil Puting Kahoy in Cavite is 800th station", "content_html": "SILANG, CAVITE is where Seaoil recently opened its 800th station in the country. Seaoil Puting Kahoy station is conveniently located near the popular tourist destination of Tagaytay and this proximity, the company said in a release, makes it \u201ceasier for visitors to gas up on the way.\u201d During its grand opening day, customers enjoyed an exclusive discount of up to P8.00 per liter on Seaoil fuels and lubricant products, along with free merchandise. Seaoil said it\u2019s on track to expand the retail network to a total of 850 stations before yearend.
\nCurrently, Seaoil has 342 stations in Luzon, 201 in Visayas, and 257 in Mindanao \u2014 in addition to 13 depots nationwide, including the recently opened Seaoil Terminal Storage and Berthing Facility in Zamboanga City.
\nApart from Seaoil fuels, the station retails Seaoil lubricant products and accepts PriceLocq as a form of payment. PriceLocq is the company\u2019s fuel-saving app where consumers can virtually stock up on fuel and have it loaded to their vehicle at a later date. Members of the newly revamped Seaoil loyalty program \u2014 Seaoil VIP for regular motorists, VIP Rides for TNVS riders, and VIP Biz for key accounts \u2014 can also earn points when they gas up at Seaoil Puting Kahoy station.
\n\u201cAs we celebrate Seaoil\u2019s 45th year, we are doubling our efforts in delivering the Alagang Seaoil experience to more Filipinos nationwide. Through the steady expansion of our retail and depot network, we look forward to giving our customers easier and more convenient options in availing of our products and services,\u201d said Seaoil Chief Executive Officer Glenn Yu.
\nA free large cafe latte from the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf also awaits registered PriceLocq users with a minimum single-receipt purchase worth P1,500 on PriceLocq. This promo is applicable on both Redeem Liter or LocqPay transactions until Nov. 15, 2023. Each user is entitled to one coffee voucher, which may be claimed at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf branches nationwide until Dec. 31, 2023.
\n", "content_text": "SILANG, CAVITE is where Seaoil recently opened its 800th station in the country. Seaoil Puting Kahoy station is conveniently located near the popular tourist destination of Tagaytay and this proximity, the company said in a release, makes it \u201ceasier for visitors to gas up on the way.\u201d During its grand opening day, customers enjoyed an exclusive discount of up to P8.00 per liter on Seaoil fuels and lubricant products, along with free merchandise. Seaoil said it\u2019s on track to expand the retail network to a total of 850 stations before yearend.\nCurrently, Seaoil has 342 stations in Luzon, 201 in Visayas, and 257 in Mindanao \u2014 in addition to 13 depots nationwide, including the recently opened Seaoil Terminal Storage and Berthing Facility in Zamboanga City.\nApart from Seaoil fuels, the station retails Seaoil lubricant products and accepts PriceLocq as a form of payment. PriceLocq is the company\u2019s fuel-saving app where consumers can virtually stock up on fuel and have it loaded to their vehicle at a later date. Members of the newly revamped Seaoil loyalty program \u2014 Seaoil VIP for regular motorists, VIP Rides for TNVS riders, and VIP Biz for key accounts \u2014 can also earn points when they gas up at Seaoil Puting Kahoy station.\n\u201cAs we celebrate Seaoil\u2019s 45th year, we are doubling our efforts in delivering the Alagang Seaoil experience to more Filipinos nationwide. Through the steady expansion of our retail and depot network, we look forward to giving our customers easier and more convenient options in availing of our products and services,\u201d said Seaoil Chief Executive Officer Glenn Yu.\nA free large cafe latte from the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf also awaits registered PriceLocq users with a minimum single-receipt purchase worth P1,500 on PriceLocq. This promo is applicable on both Redeem Liter or LocqPay transactions until Nov. 15, 2023. Each user is entitled to one coffee voucher, which may be claimed at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf branches nationwide until Dec. 31, 2023.", "date_published": "2023-11-20T00:03:15+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-11-19T14:35:37+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE2_image3.jpg", "tags": [ "Dashboard", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=558314", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/11/20/558314/peugeot-lines-up-special-holiday-deals/", "title": "Peugeot lines up special holiday deals", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\nAS CHRISTMAS approaches, Peugeot Philippines said in a release that it is gifting its customers with attractive offers, value-added payments, and special monthly installments on its full lineup. For a limited time, customers can get a Peugeot for as low as P1,418,000. The holiday promo also includes offers for an exclusive down payment of just 20% or a monthly installment that starts at P15,417.
\n\u201cPeugeot Philippines and Security Bank have joined hands to make this holiday season extra special for you and your loved ones, with exclusive deals that are sure to make owning a Peugeot more accessible for all this Christmas season,\u201d said Astara Philippines Marketing Director Timmy Naval-de Leon.
\nIncluded in this special holiday promotion are the Peugeot 5008 SUV (Allure and Active), Peugeot 3008 SUV (Allure and Active), Peugeot 2008 Allure SUV, and the Peugeot Traveller Premium eight-seater and seven-seater vans.
\nThe Peugeot 5008 SUV is a premium mid-size seven-seater SUV that offers an \u201cimmersive driving experience with the new-generation Peugeot i-Cockpit\u201d and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as active blind-spot detection, lane-keeping assistance, and driver attention alerts. The Peugeot 3008 SUV is a compact five-seater SUV with \u201ca new design that exudes style and distinction while maintaining a strong road presence.\u201d Both the 5008 and 3008 are available in Allure and Active variants.
\nThe Peugeot 2008 SUV is a subcompact five-seater SUV that \u201coffers a modern interpretation of versatile driving. With its distinctive style and balanced proportions, it leaves a lasting impression on the road.\u201d
\nLastly, the Peugeot Traveller Premium, which is imported from France, is said to set \u201cnew standards in its segment with comfort, elegance, and style. It features a spacious cabin, an enhanced driving experience, comfortable passenger amenities, and a range of safety and security features, all wrapped in an elegant exterior design.\u201d
\nPeugeot\u2019s holiday campaign runs until Dec. 31, 2023, in conjunction with the Peugeot Easy Own Financing Program. Customers can avail of this offer at any of the brand\u2019s showrooms and satellite dealerships nationwide. For more information, visit https://www.PEUGEOT.ph/buy/buy-online/offers.html.
\n", "content_text": "1 of 2\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Peugeot 2008 SUV \u2014 PHOTO FROM PEUGEOT PHILIPPINES\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Peugeot 3008 SUV \u2014 PHOTO FROM PEUGEOT PHILIPPINES\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nAS CHRISTMAS approaches, Peugeot Philippines said in a release that it is gifting its customers with attractive offers, value-added payments, and special monthly installments on its full lineup. For a limited time, customers can get a Peugeot for as low as P1,418,000. The holiday promo also includes offers for an exclusive down payment of just 20% or a monthly installment that starts at P15,417.\n\u201cPeugeot Philippines and Security Bank have joined hands to make this holiday season extra special for you and your loved ones, with exclusive deals that are sure to make owning a Peugeot more accessible for all this Christmas season,\u201d said Astara Philippines Marketing Director Timmy Naval-de Leon.\nIncluded in this special holiday promotion are the Peugeot 5008 SUV (Allure and Active), Peugeot 3008 SUV (Allure and Active), Peugeot 2008 Allure SUV, and the Peugeot Traveller Premium eight-seater and seven-seater vans.\nThe Peugeot 5008 SUV is a premium mid-size seven-seater SUV that offers an \u201cimmersive driving experience with the new-generation Peugeot i-Cockpit\u201d and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as active blind-spot detection, lane-keeping assistance, and driver attention alerts. The Peugeot 3008 SUV is a compact five-seater SUV with \u201ca new design that exudes style and distinction while maintaining a strong road presence.\u201d Both the 5008 and 3008 are available in Allure and Active variants.\nThe Peugeot 2008 SUV is a subcompact five-seater SUV that \u201coffers a modern interpretation of versatile driving. With its distinctive style and balanced proportions, it leaves a lasting impression on the road.\u201d\nLastly, the Peugeot Traveller Premium, which is imported from France, is said to set \u201cnew standards in its segment with comfort, elegance, and style. It features a spacious cabin, an enhanced driving experience, comfortable passenger amenities, and a range of safety and security features, all wrapped in an elegant exterior design.\u201d\nPeugeot\u2019s holiday campaign runs until Dec. 31, 2023, in conjunction with the Peugeot Easy Own Financing Program. Customers can avail of this offer at any of the brand\u2019s showrooms and satellite dealerships nationwide. For more information, visit https://www.PEUGEOT.ph/buy/buy-online/offers.html.", "date_published": "2023-11-20T00:02:15+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-11-19T14:35:16+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE2_image4.jpg", "tags": [ "Dashboard", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=558313", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/11/20/558313/refreshed-kia-dasmarinas-now-open/", "title": "Refreshed Kia Dasmari\u00f1as now open", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\nAC MOTORS \u2014 the automotive arm of the Ayala Group of Companies \u2014 and the Gateway dealer group recently reopened the renovated Kia Dasmari\u00f1as. Located in Dasmari\u00f1as, Cavite, the facility now dons Kia\u2019s new look, with a revamped interior design aesthetic.
\nLocated at No. 93 Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, the Kia dealership promises to enhance the Kia ownership journey by offering next-level service at a convenient location and with comfortable facilities. Measuring around 1,200 sq.m., Kia Dasmari\u00f1as boasts five work bays, a four-to-five-car showroom, plus dedicated car wash and tinting areas. Cavite is also \u201cwitnessing a boom in infrastructure development, from real estate, public roads, highways, and transport terminals.\u201d This, said Kia Philippines in a release, makes Kia Dasmari\u00f1as \u201cstrategically positioned to ride on the success of this exciting location.\u201d
\nThe Gateway Group is helmed by Chairman Markane Goho, Executive Vice-President Michael Goho, and President Raymund Basubas, and is said to be \u201ccommitted to building on the strength of the Kia brand locally and internationally, and to providing high-quality automotive services to its valued customers.\u201d Said Mr. Basubas, \u201cWe invite everyone to experience our brand of customer service.\u201d
\nMeanwhile, AC Motors CEO Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala expressed, \u201cWe are excited to strengthen Kia\u2019s presence in the province of Cavite. It is with partners such as Gateway that we see an optimistic future for our brand. The level of commitment and confidence in Kia is evident with our partners, and we are certain that together, Kia will be the top-of-mind choice of Cavite\u00f1os.\u201d
\n\u201cWe are confident that this new dealership will be a significant contributor to the entire dealer network to make Kia a major sales driver in the local automotive industry,\u201d stated Kia Philippines President Toti Zara. \u201cWe are excited to bring the Kia experience closer to our loyal customers.\u201d
\nFor more information, visit the Kia Philippines website at kia.com, like and follow Kia Philippines on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to its YouTube channel.
\n", "content_text": "1 of 2\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Kia Dasmari\u00f1as boasts a footprint of around 1,200 sq.m. \u2014 PHOTO FROM KIA PHILIPPINES\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n From left are Kia Philippines President Toti Zara, Dasmari\u00f1as City Vice-Mayor Raul Rex Mangubat, AC Motors CEO Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala, Gate Group Executive Vice-President Michael Goho, Kia Philippines Chief Operating Officer Brian James Buendia, and Gateway Group President Raymund Basubas.\u2014 PHOTO FROM KIA PHILIPPINES\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nAC MOTORS \u2014 the automotive arm of the Ayala Group of Companies \u2014 and the Gateway dealer group recently reopened the renovated Kia Dasmari\u00f1as. Located in Dasmari\u00f1as, Cavite, the facility now dons Kia\u2019s new look, with a revamped interior design aesthetic.\nLocated at No. 93 Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, the Kia dealership promises to enhance the Kia ownership journey by offering next-level service at a convenient location and with comfortable facilities. Measuring around 1,200 sq.m., Kia Dasmari\u00f1as boasts five work bays, a four-to-five-car showroom, plus dedicated car wash and tinting areas. Cavite is also \u201cwitnessing a boom in infrastructure development, from real estate, public roads, highways, and transport terminals.\u201d This, said Kia Philippines in a release, makes Kia Dasmari\u00f1as \u201cstrategically positioned to ride on the success of this exciting location.\u201d\nThe Gateway Group is helmed by Chairman Markane Goho, Executive Vice-President Michael Goho, and President Raymund Basubas, and is said to be \u201ccommitted to building on the strength of the Kia brand locally and internationally, and to providing high-quality automotive services to its valued customers.\u201d Said Mr. Basubas, \u201cWe invite everyone to experience our brand of customer service.\u201d\nMeanwhile, AC Motors CEO Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala expressed, \u201cWe are excited to strengthen Kia\u2019s presence in the province of Cavite. It is with partners such as Gateway that we see an optimistic future for our brand. The level of commitment and confidence in Kia is evident with our partners, and we are certain that together, Kia will be the top-of-mind choice of Cavite\u00f1os.\u201d\n\u201cWe are confident that this new dealership will be a significant contributor to the entire dealer network to make Kia a major sales driver in the local automotive industry,\u201d stated Kia Philippines President Toti Zara. \u201cWe are excited to bring the Kia experience closer to our loyal customers.\u201d\nFor more information, visit the Kia Philippines website at kia.com, like and follow Kia Philippines on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to its YouTube channel.", "date_published": "2023-11-20T00:01:14+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-11-19T14:34:22+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE2_image6.jpg", "tags": [ "Dashboard", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=556934", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/11/13/556934/tech-rider/", "title": "Tech rider", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\n![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE7_image1.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE7_image2.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE7_image3.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE7_image4.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE7_image5.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE7_image6.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE7_image7.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE7_image8.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE7_image9.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE7_image10.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE7_image11.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n OBVIOUSLY, there is a need for clarity and definition in the middle of a chorusing din of voices. That\u2019s exactly the case in the surge of Chinese auto brands in the Philippines.
\nAs the \u201cmade in China\u201d stigma has largely fell by the wayside evidenced by the healthy sales of vehicles manufactured there (and we should include marques that are not Chinese ones), the floodgates have seemingly opened. We are spoiled by an embarrassment of riches \u2014 and that\u2019s always good in the name of competition as companies try to outdo each other with value-for-money offerings and such. Brands cannot afford to be complacent or to be content to sink in the background of mediocrity or common ground.
\nGAC Motor is keenly aware of this, and is doing the needful to not only tread water, but to get ahead of the field. \u201cThe Chinese market is the most competitive market in the world,\u201d began GAC R&D Center Vice-President Fan Zhang, in response to a question from \u201cVelocity.\u201d \u201cThere are so many brands, and each one of them is trying to become strong \u2014 to take a good share of the market.\u201d
\nThe fully-owned subsidiary of Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC GROUP) prides itself as a \u201cnational high-tech enterprise dedicated to the production and sales of internationally advanced vehicles, components, powertrain, automotive supplies and R&D of automotive engineering technology.\u201d However, building a brand\u2019s credibility, as many know, is not just about marketing spins and campaigns, but the actual meat of what it stands for \u2014 evidenced in its activities, products, and what it spends on.
\nIn GAC\u2019s case, a compelling statement that speaks to vehicle quality and more is a considerable investment in research and development.
\nMedia delegations from the Philippines and Malaysia recently visited its massive R&D facility in Guangzhou \u2014 the nexus of a multi-country network \u201cprimarily responsible for planning, formulating, and implementing product development and new technology strategies for self-owned brands such as GAC Motor and GAC Aion.\u201d Other R&D facilities are located in Xiamen, California, Milan, and Shanghai.
\nGAC also maintains its own domestic, \u201cfirst-class large-scale test sites and bases such as intelligent network laboratories.\u201d Manning these facilities are over 6,000 \u201cindependent R&D professionals\u201d from over 10 countries, seeing to earnest work on pushing the envelope in so-called \u201cthree electrics\u201d areas \u2014 electric power, electric control, and electric drive \u2014 plus intelligent connectivity.
\n\u201cFor GAC, we\u2019ve come a long way. From the beginning, we\u2019ve set a target for our brand that we don\u2019t want to go for cheap products. We want to provide quality products for our customers,\u201d added Mr. Fan, who once worked alongside renowned Filipino car designer Winifredo \u201cWini\u201d Camacho at Mercedes-Benz.
\nHere in the Philippines, the GAC brand continues to assume an upward trajectory \u2014 finding increasing resonance among car buyers. GAC Motor Philippines recently recorded its \u201cbest-ever October performance\u201d with total retail sales spiking by a whopping 523% year-over-year to 268 units. This is another obvious feather in the cap of the distributor since coming under the aegis of established multinational firm Astara. All told, GAC has registered YTD sales of 1,488 units \u2014 plus 305% over last year\u2019s total during the same period.
\nIn a statement, GAC Motor Philippines noted that sales are being driven by the all-new GS3 Emzoom (with YTD sales of 423 units since its launch four months ago) and seven-seater GS8 SUV (378 units sold YTD). Meanwhile, 124 units of the Emkoo were sold in October, and the Empow moved 118 examples.
\nSaid GAC Motor Brand Head Franz Decloedt, \u201cWe move closer to our target of breaking 2,000 units by yearend, and this achievement bolsters our commitment and confidence in providing our customers with the utmost experience, encompassing exceptional vehicles, top-notch after-sales service, and enhanced accessibility through an expanded network of dealers.\u201d The company is \u201con track\u201d to realize 20 dealerships by the end of the year.
\n\u201cAim small, miss small,\u201d is among the memorable lines from two seemingly disparate flicks: The Patriot and American Sniper. This tenet applies not only to the obvious topic of marksmanship, but to a myriad of areas. For sales and marketing, the \u201caim small, miss small\u201d wisdom means being both purposeful and, well, not taking a sledgehammer to do work entailing finesse.
\nThat makes sense for GAC as well as it distinguishes itself from the pack. Continued Mr. Zhang, \u201cWe enter the market\u2019s mid-to-premium sector\u2026 there are at least two pillars we are working on. First, we need to provide good-quality products; quality means good build and service as well that can ensure the comfort and pleasure of our customers who use our products. The second pillar is applying new and high technology\u2026 then in terms of the appearance of the car, we try to utilize our global design competence to give them\u2026 a fashionable, desirable look. Internally, we use a very strong engineering space and also the latest results of our advanced technologies.\u201d
\nAt GAC, nowhere is high technology more apparent than at its so-called \u201csmart factories,\u201d particularly at GAC Aion, the \u201cstrategic core platform of GAC Group for the development of new energy vehicles featuring intelligent connectivity.\u201d
\nGAC Aion is said to be the first factory of its kind in China that is devoted exclusively to the production of \u201cnew energy\u201d vehicles, \u201cadhering (to) the technological route of EV+ICV (pure electric + intelligent connected vehicle).\u201d A walkthrough (sorry, we couldn\u2019t take photos) revealed the extensive use of robots on the factory floor. In a release, GAC said that these facilities extensively incorporate IoT and big data, to realize smart manufacturing. \u201cIt\u2019s also an intelligent eco-factory integrating digitization, intelligence, and comprehensive energy utilization, which enables users to deeply participate in defining automobiles and possesses the capability for personalized customization.\u201d
\nAt the moment, GAC Aion boasts two plants churning out 400,000 units a year \u2014 representing a \u201ccompound annual growth rate of over 120% and firmly maintaining a top-three position in the industry for production and sales.\u201d
\nA further snapshot of all the cutting-edge stuff the GAC Group is working on can be gleaned at the GAC Technology Museum \u2014 a compendium of the past, present, and a tantalizing future. GAC appears to be working on so many things at the same time, with each vehicle release becoming a true showcase and, again, snapshot in time of what its people have come up with \u2014 such as advancements in battery tech, powertrains, and even the user experience.
\nThe end-goal is to be able to showcase GAC\u2019s \u201cproduct value compared to competitors,\u201d asserted Mr. Zhang. \u201cSo far, we have been successful in China. We want to maintain and extend this kind of success into the international market.\u201d
\n", "content_text": "1 of 11\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The highly mechanized production facility of GAC Motor features lots of robots. \u2014 PHOTO FROM GAC MOTOR\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n A guide shows battery technology being developed by the company. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n GAC\u2019s hydrogen hybrid power system on display \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n This is among many of GAC Motor\u2019s EV infrastructure and user solutions. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The Aion Hyper SSR is touted as the first EV hypercar, with an astounding 1,224hp on tap, plus 506km of range. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The concept vehicle GAC Flying Car GOVE can be driven on the road as well. According to GAC, the GOVE represents a \u2018three-dimensional ecological travel blueprint for GAC featuring green (travel) and integration of both land and air (means),\u2019 as well as an obvious flex of its scientific and technological innovation. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n GAC Motor Philippines Brand Head Franz Decloedt (left) with GAC International General Manager Sam Chu \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Members of the Philippine media and distributorship officials with GAC Motor officials at the GAC Technology Museum in Panyu, Guangzhou \u2014 PHOTO FROM GAC MOTOR\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n GAC R&D Center Vice-President Fan Zhang (left) with the author \u2014 PHOTO BY JOSEPH AYLLON\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n GAC officials meet with Philippine and Malaysian press at the R&D center in Guangzhou. \u2014 PHOTO FROM GAC MOTOR\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nAmid a surfeit of China auto brands, GAC Motor wants to stand out through technology\nOBVIOUSLY, there is a need for clarity and definition in the middle of a chorusing din of voices. That\u2019s exactly the case in the surge of Chinese auto brands in the Philippines.\nAs the \u201cmade in China\u201d stigma has largely fell by the wayside evidenced by the healthy sales of vehicles manufactured there (and we should include marques that are not Chinese ones), the floodgates have seemingly opened. We are spoiled by an embarrassment of riches \u2014 and that\u2019s always good in the name of competition as companies try to outdo each other with value-for-money offerings and such. Brands cannot afford to be complacent or to be content to sink in the background of mediocrity or common ground.\nGAC Motor is keenly aware of this, and is doing the needful to not only tread water, but to get ahead of the field. \u201cThe Chinese market is the most competitive market in the world,\u201d began GAC R&D Center Vice-President Fan Zhang, in response to a question from \u201cVelocity.\u201d \u201cThere are so many brands, and each one of them is trying to become strong \u2014 to take a good share of the market.\u201d\nThe fully-owned subsidiary of Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC GROUP) prides itself as a \u201cnational high-tech enterprise dedicated to the production and sales of internationally advanced vehicles, components, powertrain, automotive supplies and R&D of automotive engineering technology.\u201d However, building a brand\u2019s credibility, as many know, is not just about marketing spins and campaigns, but the actual meat of what it stands for \u2014 evidenced in its activities, products, and what it spends on.\nIn GAC\u2019s case, a compelling statement that speaks to vehicle quality and more is a considerable investment in research and development.\nMedia delegations from the Philippines and Malaysia recently visited its massive R&D facility in Guangzhou \u2014 the nexus of a multi-country network \u201cprimarily responsible for planning, formulating, and implementing product development and new technology strategies for self-owned brands such as GAC Motor and GAC Aion.\u201d Other R&D facilities are located in Xiamen, California, Milan, and Shanghai.\nGAC also maintains its own domestic, \u201cfirst-class large-scale test sites and bases such as intelligent network laboratories.\u201d Manning these facilities are over 6,000 \u201cindependent R&D professionals\u201d from over 10 countries, seeing to earnest work on pushing the envelope in so-called \u201cthree electrics\u201d areas \u2014 electric power, electric control, and electric drive \u2014 plus intelligent connectivity.\n\u201cFor GAC, we\u2019ve come a long way. From the beginning, we\u2019ve set a target for our brand that we don\u2019t want to go for cheap products. We want to provide quality products for our customers,\u201d added Mr. Fan, who once worked alongside renowned Filipino car designer Winifredo \u201cWini\u201d Camacho at Mercedes-Benz.\nHere in the Philippines, the GAC brand continues to assume an upward trajectory \u2014 finding increasing resonance among car buyers. GAC Motor Philippines recently recorded its \u201cbest-ever October performance\u201d with total retail sales spiking by a whopping 523% year-over-year to 268 units. This is another obvious feather in the cap of the distributor since coming under the aegis of established multinational firm Astara. All told, GAC has registered YTD sales of 1,488 units \u2014 plus 305% over last year\u2019s total during the same period.\nIn a statement, GAC Motor Philippines noted that sales are being driven by the all-new GS3 Emzoom (with YTD sales of 423 units since its launch four months ago) and seven-seater GS8 SUV (378 units sold YTD). Meanwhile, 124 units of the Emkoo were sold in October, and the Empow moved 118 examples.\nSaid GAC Motor Brand Head Franz Decloedt, \u201cWe move closer to our target of breaking 2,000 units by yearend, and this achievement bolsters our commitment and confidence in providing our customers with the utmost experience, encompassing exceptional vehicles, top-notch after-sales service, and enhanced accessibility through an expanded network of dealers.\u201d The company is \u201con track\u201d to realize 20 dealerships by the end of the year.\n\u201cAim small, miss small,\u201d is among the memorable lines from two seemingly disparate flicks: The Patriot and American Sniper. This tenet applies not only to the obvious topic of marksmanship, but to a myriad of areas. For sales and marketing, the \u201caim small, miss small\u201d wisdom means being both purposeful and, well, not taking a sledgehammer to do work entailing finesse.\nThat makes sense for GAC as well as it distinguishes itself from the pack. Continued Mr. Zhang, \u201cWe enter the market\u2019s mid-to-premium sector\u2026 there are at least two pillars we are working on. First, we need to provide good-quality products; quality means good build and service as well that can ensure the comfort and pleasure of our customers who use our products. The second pillar is applying new and high technology\u2026 then in terms of the appearance of the car, we try to utilize our global design competence to give them\u2026 a fashionable, desirable look. Internally, we use a very strong engineering space and also the latest results of our advanced technologies.\u201d\nAt GAC, nowhere is high technology more apparent than at its so-called \u201csmart factories,\u201d particularly at GAC Aion, the \u201cstrategic core platform of GAC Group for the development of new energy vehicles featuring intelligent connectivity.\u201d\nGAC Aion is said to be the first factory of its kind in China that is devoted exclusively to the production of \u201cnew energy\u201d vehicles, \u201cadhering (to) the technological route of EV+ICV (pure electric + intelligent connected vehicle).\u201d A walkthrough (sorry, we couldn\u2019t take photos) revealed the extensive use of robots on the factory floor. In a release, GAC said that these facilities extensively incorporate IoT and big data, to realize smart manufacturing. \u201cIt\u2019s also an intelligent eco-factory integrating digitization, intelligence, and comprehensive energy utilization, which enables users to deeply participate in defining automobiles and possesses the capability for personalized customization.\u201d\nAt the moment, GAC Aion boasts two plants churning out 400,000 units a year \u2014 representing a \u201ccompound annual growth rate of over 120% and firmly maintaining a top-three position in the industry for production and sales.\u201d\nA further snapshot of all the cutting-edge stuff the GAC Group is working on can be gleaned at the GAC Technology Museum \u2014 a compendium of the past, present, and a tantalizing future. GAC appears to be working on so many things at the same time, with each vehicle release becoming a true showcase and, again, snapshot in time of what its people have come up with \u2014 such as advancements in battery tech, powertrains, and even the user experience.\nThe end-goal is to be able to showcase GAC\u2019s \u201cproduct value compared to competitors,\u201d asserted Mr. Zhang. \u201cSo far, we have been successful in China. We want to maintain and extend this kind of success into the international market.\u201d", "date_published": "2023-11-13T00:03:13+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-11-12T14:31:37+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE7_image1.jpg", "tags": [ "Kap Maceda Aguila", "Talk Box", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=556933", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/11/13/556933/a-trip-to-the-toyota-technical-center-shimoyama-part-1-future-perfected/", "title": "A trip to the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama (Part 1): Future perfected", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\nBy Kap Maceda Aguila
\nIN TOKYO, we quickly performed our coverage of the Japan Mobility Show, were hustled onto a bus, and made our merry way in a southwestwardly path to the Fuji Speedway Hotel. After resting our bones \u2014 waking up to the glorious sight of Fuji-san as we drew the curtains open \u2014 we headed further away from the din of Tokyo Big Sight to the top-secret Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama.
\nLocated in Aichi prefecture, nestl\u00e9d in Honshu Island, it is one of the car maker\u2019s 21 research and development centers spread out in various continents. We are told that Honsha is the OG tech center for Toyota, while the Shibetsu facility features a high-speed track (and lends itself most nicely for cold-weather testing because it\u2019s in Hokkaido); advanced R&D happens at the Higashi-Fuji Technical Center.
\nThen there\u2019s Shimoyama, which is said to support the Honsha R&D work. A scant half hour from the Toyota City head office, Shimoyama arguably takes a special place owing to its key role in developing future offerings in the Toyota and Lexus portfolios. Its first major appearance on the radar happened with the development of the all-new Lexus IS. Engineers and designers had the facility at their disposal \u2014 particularly the sprawling center\u2019s test tracks. We were also told at a media briefing that Shimoyama will be the Lexus headquarters once construction work on its offices is done.
\nNo doubt, these comprise the centerpiece of the facility \u2014 particularly the so-called No.3 Test Course (also known as the Country Road). Toyota truly took advantage of its 1,600-acre property in this mountainous region to purposefully recreate Germany\u2019s N\u00fcrburgring Nordschleife (or North Loop) \u2014 that most iconic of proving grounds for many a car brand. Its torturous, undulating surface lends itself naturally as a gauntlet not just of speed but maneuverability, the ability to hug curves, and keeping a car unperturbed under duress.
\nShimoyama\u2019s Country Road stretches 5.3 kilometers, and features 75-meter elevation change. Curves and cambers are also said to simulate a variety of roads as well. You may not find that odd pothole that appears on EDSA after sustained rainfall, but I digress. The test course is said to be \u201ctough on the vehicle (yet) friendly to nature,\u201d something that we saw first-hand hurtling through the circuit on various vehicles. In my case, it was a Lexus LC 500 that hugged the curves and took the high-speed abuse like a champ. The robust performance, courtesy of a powerful 5.0-liter V8, was corralled most impressively by the Japanese driver who showcased the salient areas of the course, such as the up-and-down section (yes, I held my arms up when he took it at speed) and special uneven portions.
\nFencing and such also help protect the endemic wildlife from intruding upon the course, and Toyota also makes sure that noise emission from tested vehicles are kept to a minimum. Since Shimoyama was opened in 2007, Toyota has also increased the portion it chose to preserve untouched from 40% to 60%. Construction activities have also been very respectful and conscious about environmental impact; no outside soil or earth was utilized in order to minimize effects on the ecosystem. And like a dutiful citizen, Toyota has been engaging with the neighboring community to meet its corporate social responsibility.
\nToyota Motor Corp. Chairman Akio Toyoda had said that \u201ca road builds the car and people,\u201d and the Shimoyama is surely about the company equipping itself with more in-house capacity to weave the future of mobility. More on that in coming articles.
\n", "content_text": "1 of 2\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n This high-banking test loop is presumably where Toyota and Lexus models are tweaked and perfected for fast speeds. \u2014 PHOTO FROM TOYOTA MOTOR CORP.\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n A hydrogen-powered Toyota Corolla Cross speeds past. \u2014 PHOTO FROM TOYOTA MOTOR CORP.\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nWe are among the first to drive on, and be driven on, this top-secret test center\nBy Kap Maceda Aguila\nIN TOKYO, we quickly performed our coverage of the Japan Mobility Show, were hustled onto a bus, and made our merry way in a southwestwardly path to the Fuji Speedway Hotel. After resting our bones \u2014 waking up to the glorious sight of Fuji-san as we drew the curtains open \u2014 we headed further away from the din of Tokyo Big Sight to the top-secret Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama.\nLocated in Aichi prefecture, nestl\u00e9d in Honshu Island, it is one of the car maker\u2019s 21 research and development centers spread out in various continents. We are told that Honsha is the OG tech center for Toyota, while the Shibetsu facility features a high-speed track (and lends itself most nicely for cold-weather testing because it\u2019s in Hokkaido); advanced R&D happens at the Higashi-Fuji Technical Center.\nThen there\u2019s Shimoyama, which is said to support the Honsha R&D work. A scant half hour from the Toyota City head office, Shimoyama arguably takes a special place owing to its key role in developing future offerings in the Toyota and Lexus portfolios. Its first major appearance on the radar happened with the development of the all-new Lexus IS. Engineers and designers had the facility at their disposal \u2014 particularly the sprawling center\u2019s test tracks. We were also told at a media briefing that Shimoyama will be the Lexus headquarters once construction work on its offices is done.\nNo doubt, these comprise the centerpiece of the facility \u2014 particularly the so-called No.3 Test Course (also known as the Country Road). Toyota truly took advantage of its 1,600-acre property in this mountainous region to purposefully recreate Germany\u2019s N\u00fcrburgring Nordschleife (or North Loop) \u2014 that most iconic of proving grounds for many a car brand. Its torturous, undulating surface lends itself naturally as a gauntlet not just of speed but maneuverability, the ability to hug curves, and keeping a car unperturbed under duress.\nShimoyama\u2019s Country Road stretches 5.3 kilometers, and features 75-meter elevation change. Curves and cambers are also said to simulate a variety of roads as well. You may not find that odd pothole that appears on EDSA after sustained rainfall, but I digress. The test course is said to be \u201ctough on the vehicle (yet) friendly to nature,\u201d something that we saw first-hand hurtling through the circuit on various vehicles. In my case, it was a Lexus LC 500 that hugged the curves and took the high-speed abuse like a champ. The robust performance, courtesy of a powerful 5.0-liter V8, was corralled most impressively by the Japanese driver who showcased the salient areas of the course, such as the up-and-down section (yes, I held my arms up when he took it at speed) and special uneven portions.\nFencing and such also help protect the endemic wildlife from intruding upon the course, and Toyota also makes sure that noise emission from tested vehicles are kept to a minimum. Since Shimoyama was opened in 2007, Toyota has also increased the portion it chose to preserve untouched from 40% to 60%. Construction activities have also been very respectful and conscious about environmental impact; no outside soil or earth was utilized in order to minimize effects on the ecosystem. And like a dutiful citizen, Toyota has been engaging with the neighboring community to meet its corporate social responsibility.\nToyota Motor Corp. Chairman Akio Toyoda had said that \u201ca road builds the car and people,\u201d and the Shimoyama is surely about the company equipping itself with more in-house capacity to weave the future of mobility. More on that in coming articles.", "date_published": "2023-11-13T00:02:12+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-11-12T14:33:11+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_FUTURE_image1.jpg", "tags": [ "Featured2", "Kap Maceda Aguila", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ], "summary": "IN TOKYO, we quickly performed our coverage of the Japan Mobility Show, were hustled onto a bus, and made our merry way in a southwestwardly path to the Fuji Speedway Hotel." }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=556932", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/11/13/556932/new-falken-flagship-tire-now-available-here/", "title": "New Falken flagship tire now available here", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\nAS JAPAN-HEADQUARTERED international tire brand Falken marks 40 years since its founding, JM Far East, Inc., its exclusive distributor here in the country, recently introduced the Azenis FK520L, which takes its place as the flagship model in the country\u2019s portfolio.
\nThe product, according to JM Far East President and CEO Winston Manabat in his speech during the recent formal launch of the model, is a direct successor of the brand\u2019s popular FK510 ultra-high-performance tire, which it improves upon.
\nThe FK520L, he maintained, addresses the general automotive trend that sees \u201cbigger, wider, and longer\u201d vehicles. \u201c(This is) dictating the direction of tires.\u201d Obviously, with larger vehicles come a bump in weight \u2014 along with the commensurate gains in torque and horsepower.
\nMr. Manabat added that that Falken portfolio is reflecting this size bump, as it features 74 tire sizes for wheels measuring 12 to 16 inches, and more than double that number (155) for wheels 17 to 22 inches in size. He also attributes the disparity in the number of models in the continuing and increasing popularity of crossovers, which bear larger wheel wells. \u201cThat\u2019s why you have to have bigger-diameter tires\u2026 and we are still adding more sizes.\u201d The trend is also seeing the trickling down of products once meant for more expensive vehicles to entry-level ones \u2014 a change that Falken is seeking to capitalize on as it now caters to a wider demographic.
\nBack to the made-in-Japan FK520L, it is said to benefit from the brand\u2019s substantial experience in motorsports. \u201cThe innovative Azenis FK520L ensures impeccable handling, providing unmatched stability and control at all speeds,\u201d the company said in a release.
\nProduct highlights include a new asymmetric tread pattern that \u201c(ensures) optimum road contact, high braking force, and stability and control in wet conditions,\u201d and a new composition promising 10% longer service life and an eight-percent improvement in dry performance. It also gets an Aramid Layer Reinforcement for better cornering and increased high-speed stability. Aramid is a tough material (stronger yet lighter than steel, insisted Mr. Manabat) used to make bulletproof vests.
\nThe newest iteration of the aforementioned FK510 has also been \u201chonored with multiple awards by different trusted organizations, further emphasizing its global acclaim and excellence,\u201d said JM Far East in a release. The Falken Azenis FK520L is now available at authorized dealers nationwide. \u2014 Kap Maceda Aguila
\n", "content_text": "1 of 2\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The Falken Azenis FK520L will come in many sizes and is designed for the demands of contemporary automobiles. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n JM Far East, Inc. President and CEO Winston Manabat at the launch of the Falken Azenis FK520L tire \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nAS JAPAN-HEADQUARTERED international tire brand Falken marks 40 years since its founding, JM Far East, Inc., its exclusive distributor here in the country, recently introduced the Azenis FK520L, which takes its place as the flagship model in the country\u2019s portfolio.\nThe product, according to JM Far East President and CEO Winston Manabat in his speech during the recent formal launch of the model, is a direct successor of the brand\u2019s popular FK510 ultra-high-performance tire, which it improves upon.\nThe FK520L, he maintained, addresses the general automotive trend that sees \u201cbigger, wider, and longer\u201d vehicles. \u201c(This is) dictating the direction of tires.\u201d Obviously, with larger vehicles come a bump in weight \u2014 along with the commensurate gains in torque and horsepower.\nMr. Manabat added that that Falken portfolio is reflecting this size bump, as it features 74 tire sizes for wheels measuring 12 to 16 inches, and more than double that number (155) for wheels 17 to 22 inches in size. He also attributes the disparity in the number of models in the continuing and increasing popularity of crossovers, which bear larger wheel wells. \u201cThat\u2019s why you have to have bigger-diameter tires\u2026 and we are still adding more sizes.\u201d The trend is also seeing the trickling down of products once meant for more expensive vehicles to entry-level ones \u2014 a change that Falken is seeking to capitalize on as it now caters to a wider demographic.\nBack to the made-in-Japan FK520L, it is said to benefit from the brand\u2019s substantial experience in motorsports. \u201cThe innovative Azenis FK520L ensures impeccable handling, providing unmatched stability and control at all speeds,\u201d the company said in a release.\nProduct highlights include a new asymmetric tread pattern that \u201c(ensures) optimum road contact, high braking force, and stability and control in wet conditions,\u201d and a new composition promising 10% longer service life and an eight-percent improvement in dry performance. It also gets an Aramid Layer Reinforcement for better cornering and increased high-speed stability. Aramid is a tough material (stronger yet lighter than steel, insisted Mr. Manabat) used to make bulletproof vests.\nThe newest iteration of the aforementioned FK510 has also been \u201chonored with multiple awards by different trusted organizations, further emphasizing its global acclaim and excellence,\u201d said JM Far East in a release. The Falken Azenis FK520L is now available at authorized dealers nationwide. \u2014 Kap Maceda Aguila", "date_published": "2023-11-13T00:01:12+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-11-12T14:27:00+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_image1.jpg", "tags": [ "Featured2", "Kap Maceda Aguila", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ] }, { "id": "https://www.bworldonline.com/?p=555408", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/velocity/2023/11/06/555408/crowd-architecture/", "title": "Crowd architecture", "content_html": "\r\n \r\n\r\n![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_Hyundai_image1.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_Hyundai_image2.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_Hyundai_image3.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_Hyundai_image4.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_Hyundai_image5.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_Hyundai_image6.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_Hyundai_image7.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_Hyundai_image8.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_Hyundai_image9.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_Hyundai_image10.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_Hyundai_image11.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_Hyundai_image12.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_Hyundai_image13.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_Hyundai_image14.jpg\")
\r\n \r\n By Dylan Afuang
\nHYUNDAI MOTOR PHILIPPINES, INC. (HMPH) is continuing to bank on the market\u2019s preference for family-friendly crossovers and multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) when it recently introduced one new model under the former category and three more with the latter.
\nLeading Hyundai\u2019s quartet of MPVs is the Stargazer X, a seven-seater, SUV-styled compact MPV; and the Custin, the brand\u2019s all-new minivan for seven. New variants with new seating configurations are also introduced to the Stargazer and Staria large van, with the Stargazer GLS Premium six-seater and Staria Premium+ nine-seater, respectively.
\nThe company also touted its latest offerings as \u201cpremium MPVs,\u201d to reflect the more upscale interior and exterior accoutrements over their alternatives in the market.
\n\u201cAs a mobility solutions provider, our role is to constantly search for ways to cater to the potentials of the market. The MPV segment here in the country proves to be one, with its exponential growth over the years,\u201d HMPH President Dong Wook Lee stated at a recent event that showcased the new vehicles.
\n\u201cToday, we present what the luxury of movement is. Upgrades to our lineup were made so that our customers can have an even more exceptional MPV experience,\u201d he added.
\nAfter its global debut in Indonesia last August, the Stargazer X has arrived with a price of P1.348 million. This Korean-badged model joined the niche and Japanese-dominated, strong-selling vehicle class of compact MPVs that aspire to capture the design and ride height of larger SUVs.
\nOver its MPV counterpart, the X aims to project a more rugged countenance with a larger front grille, bumper overriders, overfenders, roof rails, and 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels exclusive to this model. The crossover measures longer by 35mm and taller by 15mm than its counterpart, and clears the ground 15mm higher for a total of 200mm.
\nThe cabin commits to the premium intent, as the black leather seats with red stitching for all three rows are surrounded by a digital instrument panel, and gloss black trim details that frame the eight-inch infotainment screen with wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
\nElectronic parking brake, wireless phone charger, USB charging ports, and eight-speaker Bose audio round the long equipment list.
\nUnder the vehicle\u2019s sleek hood is a naturally-aspirated 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that courses 115ps and 144Nm of torque to the front wheels through an intelligent variable transmission (IVT), the similar setup found in the regular Stargazer.
\nIn terms of safety though, the Stargazer X adds disc brakes to all four wheels and Advanced Driver Assistance System (which includes high-beam assist, forward collision avoidance, driver attention warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-following assist, blind-spot avoidance, and rear-cross traffic alert) for enhanced safety.
\nThrough its exterior size and price points, the Custin bridges the gap between the compact Stargazer and large Staria, and now even rivals a known Japanese midsize crossover. The Custin starts at P1.770 million in GLS guise and tops out at P2.080 million in Premium spec.
\nThe Custin stylizes the traditional minivan format, particularly through creases that cut through the sliding doors on both sides, and at the rear, the car maker\u2019s name spelled out above a wide LED light bar. Depending on the variant, the stylish van is supported by 17- or 18-inch wheels.
\nPower sliding doors and tailgate grant access to the cabin, which seats the driver and passenger up front, two people in the middle on the captain seats, and three abreast in the third row.
\nWealthy cabin amenities come in the form of leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof, 4.2-inch TFT LCD instrument cluster, a 10.4-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging ports, and 12V power outlet.
\nPowering the Custin is a turbocharged 1.5-liter, four-cylinder delivering 170ps and 253Nm of torque to the front wheels with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
\nAccompanying the power is Hyundai\u2019s advanced driver assist tech, called SmartSense, that bundles cruise control, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
\nMoving on to the Stargazer Premium GLS six-seater, this model carries similar performance and feature content as the seven-seat stablemate, but nixes the second-row bench for two individual seats to create a more upscale interior feel. This retails for P1.298 million, or P10,000 more expensive than the seven-seat variant.
\nLast \u2014 and definitely not the least \u2014 compact Hyundai MPV is the Staria Premium+ nine-seater. Retailing for P2.83 million, this van offers an extra row of captain chairs over the Premium seven-seater and is powered by a 2.2-liter diesel producing 177ps and 430Nm of torque with all-wheel drive, and features Bose audio and leather seats.
\n", "content_text": "1 of 14\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Hyundai Motor Philippines, Inc. President Dong Wook Lee (right) and Managing Director Cecil Capacete flank the Custin. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n The cockpit of the Hyundai Staria Premium+ \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n HMPH General Manager for Sales Victor Vela talks about the Stargazer X. \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n HMPH Directing Coordinator for Product Planning Daihee Park \u2014 PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \nHyundai Motor PHL adds six-, seven-, and nine-seaters to portfolio\nBy Dylan Afuang \nHYUNDAI MOTOR PHILIPPINES, INC. (HMPH) is continuing to bank on the market\u2019s preference for family-friendly crossovers and multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) when it recently introduced one new model under the former category and three more with the latter.\nLeading Hyundai\u2019s quartet of MPVs is the Stargazer X, a seven-seater, SUV-styled compact MPV; and the Custin, the brand\u2019s all-new minivan for seven. New variants with new seating configurations are also introduced to the Stargazer and Staria large van, with the Stargazer GLS Premium six-seater and Staria Premium+ nine-seater, respectively.\nThe company also touted its latest offerings as \u201cpremium MPVs,\u201d to reflect the more upscale interior and exterior accoutrements over their alternatives in the market.\n\u201cAs a mobility solutions provider, our role is to constantly search for ways to cater to the potentials of the market. The MPV segment here in the country proves to be one, with its exponential growth over the years,\u201d HMPH President Dong Wook Lee stated at a recent event that showcased the new vehicles.\n\u201cToday, we present what the luxury of movement is. Upgrades to our lineup were made so that our customers can have an even more exceptional MPV experience,\u201d he added.\nAfter its global debut in Indonesia last August, the Stargazer X has arrived with a price of P1.348 million. This Korean-badged model joined the niche and Japanese-dominated, strong-selling vehicle class of compact MPVs that aspire to capture the design and ride height of larger SUVs.\nOver its MPV counterpart, the X aims to project a more rugged countenance with a larger front grille, bumper overriders, overfenders, roof rails, and 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels exclusive to this model. The crossover measures longer by 35mm and taller by 15mm than its counterpart, and clears the ground 15mm higher for a total of 200mm.\nThe cabin commits to the premium intent, as the black leather seats with red stitching for all three rows are surrounded by a digital instrument panel, and gloss black trim details that frame the eight-inch infotainment screen with wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.\nElectronic parking brake, wireless phone charger, USB charging ports, and eight-speaker Bose audio round the long equipment list.\nUnder the vehicle\u2019s sleek hood is a naturally-aspirated 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that courses 115ps and 144Nm of torque to the front wheels through an intelligent variable transmission (IVT), the similar setup found in the regular Stargazer.\nIn terms of safety though, the Stargazer X adds disc brakes to all four wheels and Advanced Driver Assistance System (which includes high-beam assist, forward collision avoidance, driver attention warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-following assist, blind-spot avoidance, and rear-cross traffic alert) for enhanced safety.\nThrough its exterior size and price points, the Custin bridges the gap between the compact Stargazer and large Staria, and now even rivals a known Japanese midsize crossover. The Custin starts at P1.770 million in GLS guise and tops out at P2.080 million in Premium spec.\nThe Custin stylizes the traditional minivan format, particularly through creases that cut through the sliding doors on both sides, and at the rear, the car maker\u2019s name spelled out above a wide LED light bar. Depending on the variant, the stylish van is supported by 17- or 18-inch wheels.\nPower sliding doors and tailgate grant access to the cabin, which seats the driver and passenger up front, two people in the middle on the captain seats, and three abreast in the third row.\nWealthy cabin amenities come in the form of leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof, 4.2-inch TFT LCD instrument cluster, a 10.4-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging ports, and 12V power outlet.\nPowering the Custin is a turbocharged 1.5-liter, four-cylinder delivering 170ps and 253Nm of torque to the front wheels with an eight-speed automatic transmission.\nAccompanying the power is Hyundai\u2019s advanced driver assist tech, called SmartSense, that bundles cruise control, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.\nMoving on to the Stargazer Premium GLS six-seater, this model carries similar performance and feature content as the seven-seat stablemate, but nixes the second-row bench for two individual seats to create a more upscale interior feel. This retails for P1.298 million, or P10,000 more expensive than the seven-seat variant.\nLast \u2014 and definitely not the least \u2014 compact Hyundai MPV is the Staria Premium+ nine-seater. Retailing for P2.83 million, this van offers an extra row of captain chairs over the Premium seven-seater and is powered by a 2.2-liter diesel producing 177ps and 430Nm of torque with all-wheel drive, and features Bose audio and leather seats.", "date_published": "2023-11-06T00:04:09+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-11-05T15:07:02+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "BusinessWorld", "url": "https://www.bworldonline.com/author/cedadiantityclea/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/eda8ffc51ac7ec8b231b61b4c6a0d14e?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_Hyundai_image1.jpg", "tags": [ "Dylan Afuang", "Editors' Picks", "Velocity" ], "summary": "HYUNDAI MOTOR PHILIPPINES, INC. (HMPH) is continuing to bank on the market\u2019s preference for family-friendly crossovers and multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) when it recently introduced one new model under the former category and three more with the latter." } ] }![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image1-1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image2-1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image3-1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image4-1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image5-1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_image1-1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_image2-1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_image3-1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image2.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image3.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image4.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE1_image5.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_TOP_image1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_TOP_image2.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_TOP_image3.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_PAGE2_TOP_image4.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_COLUMN_image1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_COLUMN_image2.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_COLUMN_image3.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_COLUMN_image4.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_COLUMN_image5.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/VELO_COLUMN_image6.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE2_image1-1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE2_image2-2.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE2_image3-1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image2.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image3.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE2_image1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE2_image2.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image4.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE1_image5.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE2_image4.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE2_image5.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE2_image6.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_PAGE2_image7.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_FUTURE_image1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_FUTURE_image2.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_image1.jpg\")
\r\n ![\"\"](\"https://www.bworldonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/VELO_image2.jpg\")
\r\n