We have a vehicle-related crisis in our midst, and this crisis is two-fold. First, there’s the matter of environment protection. Vehicles today—especially those with large-displacement engines—are collectively being blamed for significantly polluting our air and subsequently helping to damage the world we live in. Second, and perhaps more relevant to Filipinos these days, is the issue of rising fuel prices. The past several weeks have seen fuel prices continuously shoot up, and there seems to be no signs of abating.

As a result, people are now increasingly turning to two-wheeled transportation. Not only are motorcycle engines much smaller (hence, less emissions), they are also more fuel-efficient (hence, more economical). Some observers say that if the four-wheeled mode of transport is to thrive in these times, carmakers need to provide engines that are both environment-friendly and easy on the gas tank.

Thankfully, Isuzu Philippines Corp. has released a solution: the 100-percent Japan-made 4JB1 turbodiesel engine ideally designed for jeepneys. The in-line-four-cylinder direct-injection diesel has a displacement of 2.8 liters, a maximum output of 94ps and a maximum torque of 23kg-m. The best thing about this engine is that it is Euro 2-compliant, which means it easily meets the standard of the Philippine Clean Air Act.

In line with the launch of the 4JB1, Isuzu recently held the 2nd Isuzu Powertrain Conference, which adopted the theme “Synergy at Work: Gathering Momentum for a Cleaner Public Transport.” The theme suggests the company’s intent to contribute to a cleaner Philippine environment by offering a brand-new engine alternative to enterprising jeepney operators.

“The Philippines is obviously a predominantly diesel country,” said IPC President Keiji Takeda. “The public-utility vehicles here are powered by diesel and even the privately owned family vehicles are mostly diesel-fed. Filipinos entrust their transportation to diesel, which explains why Isuzu’s Powertrain business—which was launched in 2005—recorded a 267-percent growth last year compared to 2006 sales. Small, medium and big enterprises have come to benefit from Isuzu powertrains’ reliability, fuel-efficiency and eco-friendliness.”

The powertrain conference, which was attended by 50 transport cooperatives in Metro Manila, discussed such topics as the importance of using brand-new Isuzu diesel engines; how Euro-compliant engines help the government in keeping air pollution in check; how fuel-efficiency translates to more profit and savings; the durability and reliability of Isuzu diesel engines, which require a lot less maintenance than other diesel powerplants; the do’s and don’ts of maintaining a diesel engine; and the more efficient way of operating public-utility jeepneys.

David Motors, Francisco Motors, Belando Motors, BLM Motors and Tolentino Motors also gave separate presentations on their respective histories and corporate profiles. Other conference participants include Automatic Lending Investor Corporation, Philippine Postal Bank and the Office of Transportation Cooperatives from the DOTC.

For automotive application, Isuzu Powertrain also offers the 4HF1 diesel for jeepneys and the 6HH1 for buses. Isuzu likewise provides diesel engines for marine and industrial applications.

Clearly, when it comes to the most reliable, most environment-friendly and most fuel-efficient diesel engines, nothing comes ahead of Isuzu. In these trying times, those who rely on diesel engines to make their business go, can’t afford to take a gamble. Isuzu powertrains indeed mean guaranteed returns—and a cleaner environment.

Isuzu Philippines Media Release

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