Author: Gelzon de la Cruz

Hino helps students get relevant powertrain training

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Through donations, Hino Motors Philippines helps students get hands-on experience on powertrain components that are actually in service with the nation’s transport fleets.

Press Statement by Hino Motors Philippines, “Hino supports Phil – Nippon Technical College with product donations,” 2017:

MANILA, 7 September 2017–Hino Motors Philippines (HMP), the exclusive distributor of Hino trucks and buses in the Philippines, expands its CSR program with a donation to the Phil – Nippon Technical College (PNTC).

HMP, in partnership with its principal, Hino Motors Ltd. (HML), donated major assemblies such as engine, transmission, and related parts of Japan to upgrade PNTC’s powertrain training programs. The donation includes the Hino J08 series diesel engine, which was developed for Hino medium duty trucks and buses, and two types of transmission and differential systems.  These were turned over to PNTC during a ceremony held last September 4 at the PNTC Laguna Campus and attended by HMP President Mr. Hiroshi Aoki, HML Senior General Manager Mr. Takeshi Yasuda, and HML Deputy General Manager Mr. Hiroshige Fukuoka.

PNTC offers technical skills and Japanese language training programs designed to meet the standards of Japanese companies. Graduates of the school are referred to affiliate Japanese companies through HML Japan. Since 2015, PNTC has sent more than 250 graduates to Japan.

 “We are very excited about this new project we have with the Phil – Nippon Tech College. As we affirm our commitment to sustainable community with excellent skill sets, we also continue to provide uncompromising reliability, safety and economy in transport as a one-stop shop for quality trucks and buses,” said Mr. Aoki.

HMP’s annual CSR program comprises various activities, including tree planting, medical missions, Brigada Eskwela and bloodletting projects.

A Ferrari on your back

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Spotted at “Transport & Logistics, Philippines,” the tradeshow at SMX that’s ongoing till Saturday, this is the biggest reddest Ferrari we’ve seen on the back of a truck. Not a Ferrari by way of Enzo, the heavy-lift crane mounted by Hino Philippines on their heavy-duty 700 series tractor head was specified for installation by a machinery trader client.

The Ferrari crane gives independent loading and unloading capabilities to the biggest rig possible for hauling tens of tons of payload. It’s one of the most intelligent uses we’ve seen for the truck’s rear-deck, for that gaping span between truck cabin and cargo trailer.

Tata classic at transport show

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Ongoing at SMX until Saturday is “Transport & Logistics, Philippines,” a true blue tradeshow for the nation’s critical business sector. Spotted here: the classic Tata SFC 407 light duty truck.

She was introduced to this market last year and, until now, we still can’t get over her Unimog-ish good looks, hard-edged ruggedness, and P750k price. Brandishing a GVW of 4.5 tons, the 407 is the first light duty truck introduced by Tata in the 1980’s.

Before the 407, Tata only had the medium and heavy-duty trucks that hinted at their roots in massive train locomotives. They went into trucks when they partnered with Mercedes Benz way back then. (Maybe that’s why the lingering preference for the semi-forward, front-hooded layout of the 407.)

The Isuzu Big Meet: a two decade history writ large in big-boned utilities

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Celebrating their second decade this year, Isuzu Philippines organized the biggest meet-up of the marque’s vehicle owner clubs in the country and showcased their phenomenal success in shaping the mindset of Filipino motorists. Car owners came from all over and assembled a museum on wheels, on many wheels, bringing Isuzu’s very first Hi-Lander which evolved into the Crosswind AUV, their Fuego that passed on the torch to the popular D-Max pick-up, and their much-loved Alterra that was succeeded by the Mu-X SUV. They brought Isuzu’s history recorded in robust rolling stock.

Each and every one a utility model, Isuzu Philippines’ retail  offerings through the years have exclusively been light commercial vehicles–discontinued were the classic Gemini (and affiliated GM Holden) sedans that previous distributorships brought here before Isuzu Philippines took the reins for the brand, and for the country. Now, after twenty years of them pushing hard metal utility vehicles instead of conventional passenger models, it’s the market that’s come around to Isuzu’s way of thinking. Note today’s AUV’s and Asian spun MPV’s, those high-riding and sporty pick-up trucks, and, of course, those commonplace any-road SUV’s.

<Source> Press Statement by Isuzu Philippines, “Isuzu PH successfully holds biggest meet up for customers,” 2017:

Celebrating two decades of success in the business is not easy. The learnings, perseverance, and challenges, are some of the fundamentals on how to achieve sustainable growth in the company.

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC), recently celebrated two decades of success following the gathering of its biggest event for their recognized Isuzu clubs; Team Isuzu Pilipinas, Team Isuzu Car Enthusiast and mu-X Owners Philippines.

Dubbed as “Isuzu Big Meet,” the event, which was held at Megatent in Libis, Quezon City, was made to promote camaraderie between Isuzu vehicle owners, as well as recording the biggest gathering of Isuzu club members in one place.

Isuzu marketing executives together with the winners of the Isuzu Big Meet show

More than 300 Isuzu owners with their vehicles joined the grand meet, which displayed Isuzu’s current light commercial vehicle line-up, namely the Crosswind AUV, D-MAX pick-up and mu-X SUV, alongside its iconic models like the Hi-Lander, Fuego pick-up and Alterra.

To make event more exciting, IPC held its first car show for stock and modified Isuzu vehicles. Open for all clubs are categories such as Best AUV, Best Pick-up, and Best SUV. Meanwhile for the modified categories, Isuzu clubs competed on Best Engine Set-up, Best Sound/Entertainment System Set-up, and Best 4×4 Vehicle Set-up.

Judged by IPC executives and members of the motoring media, champions emerged from each club; Victor Candelaria (Best AUV), Dr. Roman Remo (Best Pick-up), JT Lerma (Best SUV), Ivan De Castro (Best Engine Set-up), Deni Von Amatorio (Best Sound/Entertainment) and Vic Makimkim (Best 4×4 Set-up). Each of them received cash prize, trophy, and premium Isuzu merchandise; as well as cash prizes and premium merchandise to the first and second runner-up winners.

Moreover, the owners of the Oldest Isuzu Model and the Highest KM Mileage in attendance, were also given recognition and prizes, Oldest Model awards was given to Alex Cabungal for his 1976 Gemini. Chito Villanueva from Team Isuzu Pilipinas took the highest mileage award for recording 998,628 kilometers on his Isuzu Hi-Lander.

Part of the giving thanks to its loyal customers, IPC provided an exclusive 20-percent discount to all event participants applicable to all Isuzu merchandise, parts and accessories displayed during the event.

The afternoon session was filled with fun games like the burger and hotdog eating contest participated by all clubs, and band entertainment by IPC Band, Pub Forties and PUPIL.

IPC President Hajime Koso expressed his elation over the success of the program, saying that the event is a true testament on the reliability and trustworthiness of the brand with Filipinos motorists.

“We are thankful for the trust that you have continually showed us over the course of the years. We value this partnership and rest assured that we will continue to provide utmost quality and topnotch service every time you would seek our service,” Koso said. “Just like car clubs, we want everyone to join hands and be united not just on meets, but also on the road,” he added.

Honda Philippines launches all-new 7-seater turbodiesel CR-V

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The new fifth-generation CR-V sports many firsts. She’s slightly bigger though not as big looking as you’d think now that she’s been purpose-built to be a three-row 7-seater.  And the Asian market edition,  specifically, is heavy with i-DTEC turbodiesel variants, making her Honda Philippines’ first-ever diesel. 

Big enough in size and capacity to no longer be the compact SUV it’s been historically, and with that relatively diminutive though remarkably torquey 300Nm 1.6L turbodiesel under the hood, the new CR-V now competes with mid-size and mainstream sport utilities. 

And, with categories counting for much when putting SRPs in context, this latest CR-V is an occasion for many an amazed double-take.  For example, instead of its former rival the Toyota RAV-4, the new CR-V now goes up against the RAV’s big brother Fortuner.

With the latest generation of top-selling mid-size SUVs like the Fortuner putting somewhat anachronistic emphasis on ride comfort, revealing how market expectations have caused these rugged people-movers to evolve into premium passenger vehicles, the new sport utilities have wandered into territory where Honda has always lived (Honda’s dedication to crossed-over unibody builds sees it not having a single traditional body-on-frame model). And now, Honda seems to have remembered their Miyamoto Musashi (or maybe their Sun Tzu) as they welcome their rivals to the neighborhood with their first-ever 7-seater turbodiesel CR-V.

<SOURCE> Press Statement by Honda Cars Philippines, “Honda launches its first 7-seater Diesel SUV, the All-New CR-V,” 2017:

Manila, 8 August 2017–Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI), Honda’s automobile business unit in the Philippines, unveils the much-anticipated All-New CR-V, the first ever diesel model in Honda’s local lineup. As the growing demand of the Filipino market of an all-around comfortable SUV, the fifth generation All-New CR-V is designed with a new and efficient diesel engine complemented by a bold and sophisticated exterior styling that matches its premium and comfortable interior. All of these improvements of the All-New CR-V aim to provide our consumers exceptional driving performance and ride quality.

Honda will offer the All-New CR-V in three 7-seater diesel variants (SX Diesel 9AT AWD, S Diesel 9AT, and V Diesel 9AT) and a 5-seater gasoline variant (2.0S CVT).

Advanced Diesel Turbo Drivetrain

To serve and function as an all-around comfortable SUV, the 7-seater variants of the All-New CR-V are powered by a fuel efficient 1.6-liter DOHC i-DTEC Diesel TURBO engine developed under Earth Dreams Technology that produces a maximum power of 120PS at 4,000rpm and peak torque of 300Nm at 2,000rpm. The downsized diesel turbo engine is mated to a new 9 Speed Automatic Transmission with Electronic Gear Selector and Paddle Shifters that produces a powerful yet cleaner and more efficient output. The new gearbox also offers a number of real-world benefits to consumers. Low gear ratio ensures a quick and powerful launch while the high gear ratio gives lower engine speed at cruising speed giving the car lower noise level and better fuel consumption.

On the other hand, Honda retains its 2.0-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine offering to the Philippine Market exclusively for the 5-seater variant. The 2.0-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine produces a maximum output of 154PS at 6,500rpm and peak torque of 189Nm at 4,300rpm and is mated to a new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) developed under Earth Dreams Technology for better fuel efficiency.

The chassis was also engineered from the ground up to provide a more agile and confident handling. Its wider front and rear track combined with front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension promotes a more responsive turn-in and cornering. An enhanced Real Time All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system will be available for the top-of-the-line SX Diesel 9AT AWD variant. This allows the power and torque to be distributed across all four wheels, allowing the driver to have maximum traction and stability on any road condition.

To top of these improvements, the All-New CR-V’s ground clearance was raised to 208mm for the SX Diesel 9AT AWD variant while other variants stand at 198mm, giving the All-New CR-V superior versatility and all-weather confidence and control.

Modern, Functional, and Dynamic Exterior

The redesigned exterior of the All-New CR-V comes with a dynamic and aggressive design that surely meets the aesthetic requirement of the Filipino market. Revolving around its exterior concept of “Modern Functional Dynamic”, the sharp-lined front grille reflects an aggressive, yet sportier look that is further complemented by signature Honda Full LED headlights. New High Beam Support System is now available for the SX Diesel 9AT AWD variant which enables the All-New CR-V to automatically change from low to high beam in dark driving conditions.

The wide and muscular fenders, tailgate spoiler, and headlight integrated Guide Type LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL), gives the All-New CR-V its modern and dynamic stance. Furthermore, a Panoramic Sunroof, Power Tailgate, and Auto Rain Sensing Wipers are exclusively available to the SX Diesel 9AT AWD variant giving it a more luxurious feel together with ease of use of the vehicle. 18-inch Aluminum Alloy Wheels for the SX Diesel 9AT AWD, S Diesel 9AT, and 2.0S CVT variants complete the overall exterior look of the All-New   CR-V.

Premium and Comfortable Interior

Complementing the bold and sophisticated exterior styling, the interior of the All-New CR-V is built on a foundation of smart utility design with 7 seats, comfortable fit, and high tech intuitive controls. Upscale features, black leather seating, and premium accents for all variants give the All-New CR-V a more luxurious feel.

The All-New CR-V offers impressive space and comfort featuring a cabin designed to comfortably accommodate up to 7 passengers. Upon entry, a highly informative Full Color Thin Film Transistor (TFT) Instrument Cluster that come standard across all variants welcomes the driver. The driver seat of the top-of-the-line variant (SX Diesel 9AT AWD) is fitted with an Electronic 8-way power adjustment with 4-way power Lumbar support that gives the most comfortable seat configuration for every driver. The second row seats of the 7-seater diesel variants features a 60:40 Split Rear seat configuration that slides and recline for an easy ingress and egress of the passengers at the third row. Air conditioning vents and two USB charging ports at the center console are also available for added comfort and convenience. Moreover, the third row seat of the 7-seater diesel variants comes with 50:50 Split Reclining seats and additional conditioning vents with independent controls are available to comfortably seat its passengers.

Furthermore, the All-New CR-V’s unparalleled cargo capacity can handle a variety of cargo requirements, depending on the customer’s needs. The 7-seater diesel variants’ flexible seat configuration can accommodate 472Liters of cargo space with the third row seats tumbled and 967Liters of cargo space with both the second and third row tumbled. The 2.0S CVT variant on the other hand can comfortably accommodate 5 passengers with 522Liters of cargo space behind the rear seats.

Keeping its passengers comfortable and entertained, the All-New CR-V SX Diesel 9AT AWD, S Diesel 9AT, and 2.0S CVT variants are equipped with a 7-inch Touch Screen Display Audio system. This system offers an intuitive operation for multimedia and hands-free telephone functionality, and Multi-View Reverse Camera Display with Dynamic Guidelines. In addition, SX Diesel 9AT AWD and S Diesel 9AT variants’ 7-inch Touch Screen Display Audio packs a Navigation feature and additional controls for its Intelligent-Dual Zone Automatic air conditioning system.

Uncompromising Safety and Honda SENSING

With the class leading performance and top-class interior, driver and passenger’s safety remains a top priority as the All-New CR-V is equipped with Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Brake Hold, Agile Handling Assist (AHA), Driver Attention Monitor, Driver and Passenger Airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), Multi-View Reverse Camera with Dynamic Guidelines, and Low Tire Pressure Warning system.

Additional convenience and safety features such as LaneWatch Camera, Side Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags, and Walk Away Auto Lock feature will also come in standard for the SX Diesel 9AT AWD, S Diesel 9AT, and 2.0S CVT variants.

To further ensure the safety of its passengers, the SX Diesel 9AT AWD variant is equipped with a state of the art Honda SENSING technology. It is a suite of safety and driver assistive technologies where it aids the driver to prevent or effectively respond to dangerous driving situations. It features an Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Low Speed Follow (LSF), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW).

Starting August 9, 2017, all 36 Honda Car Dealerships will start accepting reservations for the All-New CR-V. The 5-seater gasoline variant is readily available nationwide while deliveries for the 7-seater diesel variants will start by end of September 2017. The All-New CR-V will come in 6 colors at the following suggested retail prices:

Colors Available:

– Passion Red Pearl (New Color – SX Diesel 9AT AWD and S Diesel 9AT only)

– Lunar Silver Metallic (SX Diesel 9AT AWD and S Diesel 9AT only)

– Dark Olive Metallic (New Color – All variants)

– White Orchid Pearl* (All variants)

– Modern Steel Metallic (All variants)

– Crystal Black Pearl (All variants)

*Additional Php 20,000 for the White Orchid Pearl color

Suggested Retail Prices:

– SX Diesel 9AT AWD (7-Seater) – Php 2,049,000

– S Diesel 9AT (7-Seater) – Php 1,759,000

– V Diesel 9AT (7-Seater)- Php 1,569,000

– 2.0S CVT (5-Seater) – Php 1,539,000

With the All-New CR-V’s advanced technological features together with its modern, functional, and dynamic exterior, its top class 7-seater cabin, and uncompromising safety, the 7-seater Diesel SUV can surely offer the most rewarding drive any customer is looking for.

For more information about the All-New CR-V, log on to www.hondaphil.com or visit any Honda Car Dealership to see the extraordinary today.

Tata commuter concept progresses to prototype

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The Tata Super Ace mini-van prototype exhibited at Truckathon 2017

The “commuter concept” that debuted at last March’s Manila International Autoshow

Cirrus dual aircon ducting from Centro

A follow-up to our report on Tata’s commuter concept debuting at the Manila International Auto Show last March, the 15-seater mini van is now in prototype stage, ready for usage tests. Built on the cab and chassis platform of Tata’s Super Ace mini-truck, the prototype features coachwork by Centro builders and now mounts the contractor’s trademark Cirrus rear air-conditioning duct-works.

At the Tata Truckathon 2017 event last month, the carmaker’s official launch of their extensive line of trucks and buses (from sub-ton to 60-ton GVW trucks, and from medium- to full-sized buses), the prototype was exhibited in telltale “UV Express” livery, revealing the niche at which they’re aiming the new variant, and at an indicative price of PhP909,500.

Touchdown: Tata Trucks

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Tata trucks are now here in earnest after the official launch of their entire, expanded and extensive line-up of 15 haulers featuring trucks from sub- to 60-tonners, and including medium and full-sized buses.   Signalling the new standing of Tata Motors Philippines as a fully commissioned distributor of the global brand’s commercial vehicles as well as their passenger vehicles, the pivot to trucks and buses comes three years after the brand’s introduction to the Philippine market in 2014.

Press Statement by Pilipinas Taj Autogroup, Inc., “Tata Motors strengthens presence in Philippines with the launch of its range of commercial vehicles,” 2017:

Manila, 25 July 25 2017—Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer and among the top ten globally, today launched a range of commercial vehicles in Philippines. The company is making headway in the Philippines market through a distribution agreement with local partners Pilipinas Taj Autogroup, Inc., an important business conglomerate engaged in the local distribution of motor vehicles.  Through this partnership, Tata Motors will commence the supply of its commercial vehicle brands – the Tata Prima Range of Tractor Trailers and Tippers, the LPT range of Light, Medium and Heavy Trucks, SFC 407, and the Mini Trucks range of Ace and Super Ace.

Besides Philippines, Tata Motors commercial vehicles are present across several South-East Asian markets including Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand with manufacturing facilities in Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Rudrarup Maitra, Head (International Business), Commercial Vehicles, Tata Motors said, “Philippines is one of our key markets in South-East Asia and we are delighted to be a part of one of the fastest growing ASEAN nations. With years of experience in the commercial vehicle business, Tata Motors has analyzed and understood our customers well and are dedicated to providing them with best-in-class products and services. We are confident that through our trusted partnership with Pilipinas Taj Autogroup, Inc., we will be successful in establishing a long-term relationship with our customers.”

Mr. Jon Fernandez, Jr., President of Pilipinas Taj Autogroup, Inc., said, “We, at Pilipinas Taj Autogroup, Inc., are proud to partner with Tata Motors to offer customers with sturdy and reliable vehicles. We are looking forward to this new opportunity and are committed to catering to the commercial vehicle market with India’s largest and most trusted automobile brand here in the Philippines. We will closely work with Tata Motors to ensure customers here get the finest vehicles and services, that not only match their requirements but also their business needs.”

Tata Motors entered the Philippines market in 2014 with cars and small commercial vehicles. The low cost of ownership and availability of Diesel vehicles appealed to this market.

BAIC Philippines opens flagship showroom after building nationwide network of sellers and servicers

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Now almost three years in the country, BAIC Philippines finally opens their flagship showroom after first focusing on fundamentals and having already established a network of dealerships and service centers nationwide. And, after the market’s positive response to their bargain priced utility vehicles, they now also launch a new line of light trucks, among which is the Freedom mini-truck that’s remarkably suited to the role of family workhorse.

Press Statement by BAIC Philippines, “BAIC Philippines opens flagship showroom, launches light truck models,” 2017:

BAIC Philippines formally opened their flagship showroom in Makati City last July 14 and made the new facilities the backdrop for the official unveiling of their new Bayanihan H5 light truck and Freedom compact truck models. The flagship showroom in a new, purpose-built building now speaks of BAIC Philippines’ continued commitment to this market, while the new Bayanihan H5 and Freedom trucks show their intent to keep providing up-to-date, affordable and versatile vehicles to Philippine customers.

Flagship to a fleet of showrooms and service centers

The inauguration of the flagship facilities comes with the automotive brand already having 8 dealers and 22 accredited service centers in Luzon, Visayas and in Mindanao.  A division of Universal Motors Corporation (UMC), BAIC’s Philippine distributor Bayan Automotive Industries Corporation (Bayan Auto) was launched almost three years ago at the 2014 Philippine International Motor Show.

Ceremonial ribbon-cutting by Mr. George Chua, president and CEO of BAIC Philippines, and Dr. Haiyang Dong, president and CEO of BAIC International Development Co., Ltd..

The new showroom stands in the country’s premier business district at 2232 Don Chino Roces Avenue in Makati City. The two-storey building has 1,200 square meters of floor-space featuring a 12-vehicle street-front showroom, a plush customer lounge, multiple sales offices, an after-sales services reception area, and the executive suites.  Well attended by business partners, customers, members of the motoring press, and by BAIC global brand dignitaries, the inauguration was officiated by Mr. George Chua, president and CEO of BAIC Philippines, and was graced with the participation of Dr. Haiyang Dong, president and CEO of BAIC International Development Co., Ltd..

The event was a milestone in many ways with Mr. Chua saying, “close to 3 years ago when we first introduced the BAIC Brand in the Philippines … we were confident that with the long and strong history of UMC and partnership with the dynamic and global outlook of BAIC, failure was not an option.”  Adding to the significance of the occasion, Dr. Dong revealed that, “the Philippines is a key market and a potential hub to service the ASEAN market.”

Mindful focus on Euro 4, lowest taxed haulers

“Establishing a new brand is indeed a challenge and doing so in a highly competitive market like the Philippines requires more than experience, financial resources and luck,” says Mr. Chua. “We realize that for us to succeed we must have the right product at the right price.”

Bayanihan H5 cab and chassis

Citing the county’s clean air act which mandates January 1, 2018 as the deadline for all new vehicles to be Euro 4 compliant, and the tax reform program that calls for a significant increase in vehicle excise taxes, Mr. Chua observed that these make “ownership of new vehicles more difficult and possibly out-of-reach for many of our countrymen.”

With these compelling factors in mind, BAIC Philippines has officially launched their Bayanihan H5 cab and chassis and Freedom compact truck, both with SRPs that put these squarely in the lowest taxed tier of the new vehicle excise tax structure.  The Bayanihan H5 is the only model in the light truck category that offers a ton-and-a-half of payload on a roomy 10-foot rear deck and is powered by an up-to-date Euro 4 compliant turbodiesel.  The Bayanihan H5 lists at P598,000 in basic cab-and-chassis form with built up variants that will feature dropside flatbed, aluminum van and passenger rear bodies—the last, also with an option for dual-type air-conditioning.

Double-cab Freedom compact truck

Completing BAIC Philippines’ small hauler line-up is the new Freedom offered in pickup truck layouts with a dropside flatbed cargo bed in back and either a single- or double-cab up front.  SRP for the single-cab variant is P458,000, the double-cab’s is P488,000. With its Euro 4 compliant 94hp and 115Nm 1.4L gasoline engine, and almost a ton of payload, the Freedom offers surprisingly mainstream capabilities yet at competitive prices. And the double-cab variant in itself is a rare enough offering in the light truck category, at least as far as new vehicles are concerned.  In Mr. Chua’s estimation, these features put together make the Freedom, “the affordable, smart man’s pickup!”

More to come from BAIC

Mr. Chua reveals that, in addition to the Bayanihan H5 light truck and Freedom compact truck, BAIC Philippines is looking to introduce a new model among their MPV offerings.  Although other details are still under wraps, Mr. Chua says the distinction of the new multi-purpose-vehicle vis-a-vis their popular M20 MPV will be an automatic gearbox for driving convenience in the country’s notorious traffic jams.

New BAIC mini-truck could become big family mainstay

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BAIC Philippines launched their Freedom mini-truck during the inauguration of their flagship showroom in Makati City just last Friday. Offered cargo flatbed configurations, the BAIC Freedom is available in single- and double-cab variants, and priced at P458k and P488k, respectively … and rather surprisingly. That mini-truck tag and those prices that put it squarely against the Suzuki Super Carry and Tata Ace (vehicles commonly known here and abroad as miniature trucks), all these have the effect of reinforcing the image of the Freedom as being a bare-bones scaled-down something. But, get to see the Freedom in the flesh, even try her on for size, and it’s clear that she exceeds the boundaries of the mini-truck category.

The Freedom measures around 4.5m in length (the single-cab at 4.400m, the double at 4.565m), much longer than the 3.8m of the Suzuki and Tata models. This up-sizing translates into greater capacity with the Freedom having payloads of 990kg on the single-cab variant and 905kg on the double. At close to one ton of payload, the Freedom brandishes a significant margin over the 735kg of the Super Carry and the 800kg of the Ace. The Freedom’s cargo bay is much longer, to the tune of more than 0.3m when comparing single-cab variants. On the double-cab variant, the cargo bay is similarly longer than those on sporty mid-size double-cab pickups.

A surprising plus: the Freedom mounts a Euro 4 compliant 94hp 1.4L Suzuki K14B-A engine (from the same, well-proven series that powers the Suzuki Ertiga MPV and Ciaz sedan). That Suzuki mill hasn’t been outsourced but manufactured in-house instead, and legitimately, by the Freedom’s original manufacturer. Coming to this market by way of the global BAIC Group of China, the Freedom is manufactured by Jiangxi Changhe Suzuki Automobile Co. (Changhe), the light commercial vehicle manufacturer that’s in a joint venture with Suzuki Motor Corporation of Japan. Changhe became a subsidiary of the BAIC Group in 2013 when the big conglomerate acquired 70% controlling stake. (In the China domestic market, the model is differently branded but similarly badged as the Changhe Freedom Mini-Truck.)

And, finally, that double-cab option on the Freedom is a game-changing rarity in its category (not counting those on small, surplus multi-cabs). With the option for sedan-like seating for five passengers combined with her close to mainstream dimensions and full-grown engine (an engine that’s aircon-ready, no less), the Freedom stands an excellent chance of becoming widely accepted as a common family pickup truck. Not like the high-riding and sleeked-up pickups from the big brands that figured in the truck wars last year, but something that’s less sport and more utility, something that’s more of a truck.  Sure, the Freedom is less pretty, more of your money invested in function, damned little of it in form, but that also speaks to character, makes a fair statement about the owner, doesn’t it?