Isuzu Philippines used the recent Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) to demonstrate the many possible ways its vehicles can be tailored to the specific lifestyle needs of the market. Held end August 2008 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, the PIMS was organized by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI) for just the second year. Isuzu believes that the motor show was the perfect venue to flaunt its line of concept vehicles that will suit the varied needs of the Filipino market.

“We want people to realize that Isuzu does not only make utilitarian commercial vehicles,” said IPC President Keiji Takeda. “What we manufacture is a means for individuals and families to achieve freedom on the open road, and to do so in a trendy manner—while still enjoying the benefits of fuel-efficiency, engine power, dependability and value for money.”Taking center stage at the Isuzu booth were three specially designed vehicles that highlighted the many possibilities offered by the D-Max, the Alterra and the Crosswind. The D-Max Boondock 4×4 M/T, fresh from its successful launch in the Visayas and Mindanao, is a hardcore version of the best-selling pickup, boasting limited slip differential, one-touch shift-on-the-fly 4WD operation, and 165/70 R16 all-terrain tires. This special edition also comes with gray masculine special grilled end hood accent and is available in two-tone colors. Off-road enthusiasts who like taking their iron horses off the pavement are sure to love this model.

The Alterra 4×2 A/T Ultimate Mobile Cinematic Experience Concept is a show-car version of the popular SUV, made exclusive by the presence of the most sophisticated in-car entertainment package in the industry: 32-inch JVC LCD monitor; 2-DIN JVC seven-inch touch-screen LCD head unit; 17 speakers; three digital mono amplifiers; and dual voice 10-inch subwoofer. This mobile theater runs on 22-inch Concept One alloy wheels.

The third concept vehicle is something for the women. The Crosswind Sportivo 4×2 A/T Lady Edition is aimed specifically at the female demographic of the MPV market—sensible and stylish homemakers, if you will. This model features a reverse camera with three eye sensors; a 3.5-inch DVD monitor head unit; a 5.1 surround entertainment system; vanity mirrors for both driver and front passenger; and beige dashboard, steering wheel, handbrake and shift knob. Bringing the kids to school has never been this fashionable.

Of course, Isuzu is still about providing entrepreneurs with ideal business vehicles. Leading the charge of such vehicles at the PIMS were three commercial vehicles designed to address the unique needs that the Filipino entrepreneur of today faces. First was the Isuzu NHR Smart Van, a 2.8-liter four-cylinder direct-injection diesel machine that boasts a “smart” rivetless-type rear body. The 3,325mm-by-1,820mm-by-1,800mm rear body features a reverse camera that feeds images into a rear-view mirror integrated display monitor for added safety when backing up. There was also the Isuzu NKR Aluminum Van, a 4.3-liter four-cylinder diesel light truck that hauls a corrugated-type aluminum body. The rear is equipped with four reverse eye sensors that work with a distance display monitor. Both the Smart Van and the Aluminum Van are adorned by Comglasco wraparound rear-body stickers, which captured this year’s PIMS theme of “Towards Safer and Cleaner Motoring.”

The third Isuzu commercial vehicle on display at the PIMS was the D-Max LT 4×2 M/T Business Maximized Concept (BMC). Powered by a 2.5-liter direct-injection diesel engine, this concept pickup comes in two color variants (alpine white and sterling silver). Aside from the Clarion CD 1800 audio unit inside, the BMC features rope hooks, frame guard and 18-inch Concept One alloy rims outside. This pickup is ideal for business start-ups that require constant mobility and cargo movement.

Complementing the above commercial vehicles were three equally hardworking Isuzu Powertrains: the 4LE2 for industrial applications, the UM4JB1 for marine applications and the 4HF1 for automotive applications. All three diesel engines are fuel-efficient, environment-friendly and powerful enough for any commercial needs.

“The theme for this year’s Philippine International Motor Show was safer and cleaner motoring,” said Takeda. “We at Isuzu are confident that all the vehicles we displayed at the show qualified as safe and clean modes of transportation. Best of all, they provide a wise solution to the problems of businessmen regarding performance, operation and maintenance costs, and reliability.”

Isuzu Philippines Media Release

Tsikot.com Philippines

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. announces the Philippine premiere of the All-New Honda Jazz during the 2nd Philippine International Motor Show at the World Trade Center Metro Manila.

Widely acclaimed for its dynamic styling, spacious interiors, versatile utility and remarkable fuel economy, the 2nd generation Honda Jazz introduces more advanced and vibrant features to bring out added fun and excitement to one‘s driving experience. Living up to its demeanor, the All-New Jazz is aptly named as a Fun Utility Vehicle or simply, an F.U.V.!

The All-New Honda Jazz sports a unique forward-leaning cabin form styling that highlights sharper lines, wider stance and improvement in aerodynamics. Moving the front pillar as far ahead and as slim as possible, the windshield covers a wider expanse for an enhanced and liberating visibility. Fronting the Jazz is a trapezoid bumper grille, harmonized together with the hexagon grille design to give it a sporty, solid stance. To complement its over-all dynamic, sporty appeal, the new Jazz now comes in 16″ for its top-of-the-line variant and 15″ tire size for its 1.3-liter variant, translating to an inch wider than its predecessor.

Available in 1.5 liter and 1.3 liter variants, the All-New Jazz 5-door hatchback delivers a maximum power output of 120 ps at 6600 rpm and 100 ps at 6000 rpm, respectively, making it the most powerful in its class. The entire 2nd generation Honda Jazz line-up is now equipped with the renowned intelligent VTEC or i-VTEC engine. Featuring more compact and quiet qualities, the i-VTEC engine technology switches the valve timing for maximum efficiency during start-up and acceleration to achieve powerful, torquey performance, then delays intake valve closure timing during cruising and other low-load conditions to reduce pumping losses for improved fuel economy. Power output has been optimized with the i-VTEC engine to realize more lively and nimble driving within the city and a carefree experience on long drives, while maintaining its outstanding fuel economy.

To further enhance fuel efficiency, the Jazz comes with a class-leading 5-speed automatic transmission that makes the engine work less hard. Widening the range of gear ratios reduce engine revolution and stress. Also, a fuel consumption meter is available in the liquid crystal display to delightfully keep track of one‘s instantaneous and average fuel mileage. With the cutting-edge technology behind the i-VTEC engine coupled with 5-speed automatic transmission, the new Jazz fuses power and fuel economy, bringing spirited and more fun-filled driving to every liter of gasoline.

In bringing sheer driving enjoyment to another level, 1.5 Jazz comes with a race-inspired paddle shifter that is also available in other bigger models like the 2.0 Civic and the Accord. The F1 Racing inspired paddle shift option enables you to manually shift gears without the clutch. Conveniently located just behind the steering spoke, the paddle shift option provides the benefit of driving an automatic with enhanced spirited driving performance of a manual. With the paddle shifter, experiencing ultimate driving pleasure is right at your fingertips.

Step inside the Honda Jazz and experience a carefree interior that is brimming with vitality and ease of operations. Succeeding in achieving a revolutionary small car with its innovative center fuel tank layout, the Honda Jazz carries over the same layout to maintain its maneuverability. Interior cabin space has also been maximized to make it even more spacious. Seating five people, the Jazz still leaves ample room for one‘s cargo with up to 384 liters capacity size. The Honda Jazz offers so much space in order to live up to one‘s active lifestyle, thanks to its versatile ULTRA seats that can accommodate almost anything – be it long, tall or any utility items. With its innovative seat configuration, the Jazz can surely put up with extra loads of fun.

Beyond packaging and styling, Honda is committed in ensuring safety to every passenger. The new Jazz comes with Dual SRS airbags, G-CON body structure and Anti-lock Brake System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist in any of its variants. Also, its brake system carries 4-wheel disc brakes for increased braking efficiency.

“Since its inception, the Honda Jazz has revolutionized the small car concept and has won the hearts of many customers in over 115 countries around the globe for its astounding fuel economy, styling and spaciousness. With the 2nd generation‘s refreshing design, the Honda Jazz is set to bring more fun in every drive, especially in the face of spiraling fuel costs.” said Mr. Hiroshi Shimizu, President and General Manager of Honda Cars Philippines, Inc.

Ever since its debut in 2001, overwhelming reception on the Honda Jazz has led to the attainment of its cumulative global sales of over 2.5 million units. People‘s warm acceptance has been reflected on the various recognitions awarded to the Honda Jazz. Included in its prestigious streaks of accolades is the back-to-back over-all Japan Car of the Year award for both 1st and 2nd generation models, covering years 2001-2002 and 2007-2008. Inheriting the high-level of performance of its predecessor, the All-New Jazz continues to reap special recognitions which include the Japan Automotive Hall of Fame Association (JAHFA) Car of the Year Award, the Automotive Researchers and Journalists Conference of Japan (RJC) Car of the Year and the CCC Car of the Year Eco Award, to name a few.

The All-New Honda Jazz is one small car that is definitely not ‘small‘ in terms of space, features, performance, styling, packaging and most importantly, in FUN factor.

Three variants of the All-New Jazz are set to conquer the hatchback market with introductory prices starting at:

1.3-liter S MT    Php 707,000
1.3-liter S AT    Php 747,000
1.5-liter V AT    Php 797,000

The Fun Utility Vehicle, Honda Jazz, is available in these exciting colors:

* Cerulean Blue
* Taffeta White
* Crystal Black Pearl
* Rallye Red
* Silverstone (1.5 V only)
* Alabaster Silver (1.3 S only)

Bookings are accepted at the Philippine International Motor Show, including all authorized Honda dealers nationwide. Actual deliveries will commence by the end of September 2008.

Visit www.hondajazzfuv.com and www.hondaphil.com to get more loads of fun with the Honda Jazz.

Tsikot.com Philippines

AFTER the rain of confetti had settled and the smoke had cleared, the motoring public was treated to a slew of new auto models that made their Philippine debut at the 2nd Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) ongoing at the World Trade Center in Pasay City until August 24.

On opening day last Aug. 21, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo walked the main exhibit hall accompanied by the country chief executives of the 15 participating global auto brands, inspecting first-hand the fresh car models soon to hit Manila’s streets, and a number of concept vehicles straight from the future.

This year’s motor show featured some of the glitziest vehicle unveilings as member companies of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines (CAMPI) pulled all the stops in elaborate presentations to launch their latest offerings. Top singing diva Regine Velasquez descended in a harness from the ceiling of the massive Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. display area, her thunderous voice filling the 11,000-square World Trade Center exhibit hall during the unveiling of an all-new luxury sedan and two hatchbacks Hyundai officials described as “industry challengers.”

With Ms. Velasquez and other dancers emerging from cocoon-like canopies, Hyundai revealed the Genesis, a luxury sedan powered by a 3.8-liter, six-cylinder engine; the i30 hatchback with a 1.6-liter power plant; and the tiny i10 with its fuel-thrifty 1.1-liter engine.

More Power

Noted musician Jay Cayuca raised the heat on his violin as PGA Cars slid the cover off the all-new Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, a 550-hp, 4.8-liter eight-cylinder luxury sports utility vehicle (SUV) from the German carmaker. Boasting of more power, the new Cayenne can do 280 kph and sprint to 100 kph in 4.8 seconds.

Audi, in an adjacent booth, showed off the sleek R8, a 420-hp, eight-cylinder roadster whose first batch of 20 units is soon to arrive in Manila’s ports.

Not to be outstaged was Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp., uncovering the much-awaited iteration of the Lancer Evolution X sports sedan. The Evo X is how Mitsubishi defined power: 291 hp squeezed out of a 2-liter lightweight turbocharged aluminum engine under an aluminum hood. It’s a street racer’s dream in metal form.

Mitsubishi also launched the 2009 Galant 240M executive sedan with a 2.4-liter, 162-hp powerplant, and a “concept” SUV derived from the stylish Strada pickup. Dubbed the Concept MS, the new SUV will make its Philippine debut end-August following its global launch at the Moscow Motor Show this August 26.

Mitsubishi’s main attraction was the iMiEV, which stands for Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle. Still a concept car, the miniscule hatchback showed President Arroyo during her visit a glimpse of the shape of things to come in the electric motoring age.

Toyota Motors Corp. displayed its A-BAT, a truck-car hybrid concept vehicle, a compact version of a pickup truck. The A-BAT will have a 4-cylinder gas engine that works with Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive, a powertrain that enables the car to run on both electricity and gas.

Toyota also unveiled a new Land Cruiser powered by a 4.4-liter turbocharged diesel V8 and a six-speed automatic transmission. Also showcased was a limited edition of the bestselling Vios sedan decked with 17-inch wheels, high-intensity discharge headlamps, rear spoiler and ipod interface. The branded version came with exclusive floor mat and keychain.

Design Driven

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. launched the all-new 2008 Jazz. The second-generation Jazz featured a sleeker cabin-forward design, drive-by-wire, and paddle shift and 16-inch wheels on the 1.5-liter variant. The 1.3-liter model featured 15-inch wheels and a five-speed automatic transmission.

BMW publicly launched the X6 xDrive30d, a sleek, muscular luxury crossover SUV powered by a 235-bhp, 3.0-liter, six-cylinder diesel engine. Its newest SUV yet, the X6 joins the BMW X3 and X5 SUV lineup. The X6 came in three variants, with a model powered by a V8 engine.

Suzuki came up with a 2.4-liter version of the Grand Vitara 4x2 which was P300,000 cheaper than the 2.7-liter, six-cylinder model. A four-speed manual version of the Swift hatchback was also displayed.

Volvo debuted its XC60 all-wheel drive SUV powered either by a 2.4-liter, five-cylinder turbodiesel engine or a 3.0-liter six-cylinder twin-turbo gas. The Scandinavian-designed XC60 is certified all-road capable.

Kia brought in a Sportage SUV demonstrator that runs on electricity produced from hydrogen. The fuel-cell electric vehicle can do 150 kph and has water only for emission. Kia also launched an all-new SUV called the Mojave powered by a 3.8-liter six-cylinder gasoline engine.

Entrepreneurial

Nissan focused on entrepreneurship and launched a version of the popular Urvan van that seats 21 people. Dubbed the Pangkabuhayan van, the Urvan is being positioned by Universal Motors Corp., its assembler, as the vehicle for starting a business.

Isuzu presented a mobile theater setup in the Alterra SUV. Isuzu redefined auto entertainment by mounting a 32-inch JVC LCD screen for the rear passenger. The setup, however, does not come standard.

General Motors brought in a collection of vehicles under the Chevrolet badge that runs on alternative fuel. Displayed were the Tahoe SUV and Malibu sedan hybrids, as well as an Optra sedan that run of compressed natural gas. GM is considering offering the vehicles locally. Also displayed were diesel versions of the Captiva SUV and the Epica sedan.

Mazda showed off its well-designed collection of vehicles with the recently launched Mazda 6 and Mazda CX-9 crossover SUV. Mazda boasted of its gasoline-powered engines capable of taking in 20% ethanol using E20 fuel.

Ford launched its all-new Escape SUV with new lights and cleaner lines. The new Escape still carries a 2.3-liter gas engine and automatic transmission with options for four-wheel and two-wheel drive.

Text and photos from the 2nd Philippine International Motor Show Media Release

Tsikot.com Philippines

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo keynoted the opening of the 2nd Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) last August 21.  The biggest car show in the country will run until the 24th at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

The 2nd PIMS is not just a motor show but a showcase of the local auto industry’s strength, agility and economic might with 15 of the global auto brands participating with the support of their parent firms that recognize the Philippines’ growing significance as a viable auto market in the region.

Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines (CAMPI) President Elizabeth Lee said the show is a testament to investors’ faith and confidence in the Philippines.“Having an international caliber motor show helps put our local auto industry, and the Philippines for that matter, on the automotive industry map. Almost all developed countries have a large motor show that serves as a venue to show off, not only their cars, but the host country as well. Perhaps soon, instead of us flying off to see Bangkok Motor Show, they would fly to the Philippines to come see ours,” Lee said.

Lee further said than more than generating excitement over the glitzy car displays and taking a peek into the future of motoring, the 2nd PIMS is a clarion call for all Filipino consumers and car enthusiasts to rally behind the local auto industry.

She said Filipinos must be proud that such an international motor show is right in their doorsteps.

In spite of the pall of gloom descending upon the global automotive industry these days, as threats of soaring fuel prices and shrinking purchasing power continue to cause jitters among nervous consumers, and as when major auto markets like the US are reporting double-digit sales slump and shedding thousands of jobs, the Philippine auto industry provides a stark contrast.

In fact, the Philippine auto industry continues to experience double-digit growth, with total vehicle sales rising 14.2% so far this year from year-ago levels.

This can be attributed to the steady stream of dollar inflows from overseas Filipino workers and investments by rising entrepreneurs that the local auto industry has so far bucked the trend and side-stepped the global slowdown in car sales in the first seven months of the year, according to the CAMPI.

Robust car sales have enabled local auto makers to continue to support the employment of 74,000 Filipinos in the auto industry, although Lee admits “it is an uphill battle, but one that is worth fighting for, considering the large contribution of the industry to the economy as a whole.”

The local auto industry is dominated by global auto brands but it plays a major role domestically as an economic driver through the downstream industries that depend on it – from the assemblers and distributors, to the makers of various automotive parts and components, dealers who retail the vehicles, not to mention the many ancillary industries that include car accessories, after-sales service businesses, oil and lubricant industry, among many others.

There are more than 530 players in the automotive industry, which includes 21 passenger car and commercial vehicle assemblers/distributors, 256 parts makers, and more than 240 dealer outlets nationwide.

More than 74,000 Filipinos directly depend on the auto industry for their living. The Automotive Industry Workers Alliance (AIWA) estimates that at least 500,000 family members benefit from every vehicle and car parts made, assembled, distributed or sold in the market or exported abroad.

The economy benefits in the form of government revenues from taxes paid which enables it to spend on building roads, bridges and infrastructure. In 2007 alone, the local automotive industry contributed a total of P18.92 billion in taxes, up from P14.94 billion in 2006.

“It is critical to understand the importance of an auto industry as a key driver to an economy, especially to one like ours. The Philippine automotive industry is perhaps one of only two remaining significant manufacturing efforts in the Philippines,” said Ms. Lee.

“No successful, developed country is without an auto industry that contributes significantly to its gross domestic product,” she added.

Every car part made and assembled in the country and exported to the world is a testament to the innate skill of Filipinos.

Filipino-made parts find their way in the assembly process – from transmission and engine components to suspension, seats, bumpers and electrical wiring. In fact, one of the country’s top export industries, aside from electronics, are assembled automotive parts and components, according to the Department of Trade and Industry.

Locally sourced parts, such as wiring harness, are exported from the Philippines and used by major auto brands in the US, Japan, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Mexico, and Vietnam. Other automakers use the Philippines as an ASEAN manufacturing hub to export parts overseas. These include transmissions and CV joints- critical parts that are essential to vehicles being sold in many countries to include the ASEAN, The Netherlands, Taiwan, and Indonesia.

Global auto brands have heavily invested in the country by setting up local assembly plants. In fact, a flexible fuel plant was inaugurated just last year. But more needs to be done to increase the Philippines’ footprint and participation in the global value chain. Expanding the domestic market is one way to do it, Ms. Lee said.

“There is clearly an opportunity for added expansion in the Philippine market vis-à-vis its ASEAN neighbors, given our low car ownership relative to population – another potential for domestic market expansion,” she said. “We want to encourage the Philippines’ stronger integration within the ASEAN supply chain – which is not only feasible, but can be a reality.”

This is just one of the reasons why Lee said mounting a motor show of international caliber is important for the Philippines.

About a hundred vehicles are expected to be on display at the motor show, with an expanded floor space of 11,000 square meters to accommodate 15 global auto brands and the numerous ancillary industries that make up the Philippine auto industry.

The grander and bolder show will showcase fuel-efficient vehicles and the latest concept cars in line with this year’s PIMS theme, “Drive the Future: Towards Cleaner and Safer Motoring.”

CAMPI was formed on May 16, 1995 by 11 founding member-companies composed of motor vehicle manufacturers which participated in the Motor Vehicle Development Program of the government.

It is a socially responsible automotive industry association in partnership with the Philippine government and other stakeholders in pursuit of economic growth through the development of a viable and self-sustaining local automotive industry.

Its aims to be an engine of growth through investments and government revenue generation, employment creation, manpower skills development, technology transfer, environmental protection and safety promotion under a policy environment responsive to the developmental needs of the industry and society.

The 2nd PIMS was organized by the CAMPI’s members that include Asian Carmakers Corporation/BMW Philippines, Columbian Autocar Corporation (Kia), General Motors Automobile Philippines, Inc., Honda Cars Philippines, Inc., Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc., Isuzu Philippines Corporation, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation, Nissan Motor Philippines, Inc., PGA Cars, Inc. (Audi/Porsche), Scandinavian Motors Corporation/Viking Cars, Inc. (Volvo), Suzuki Philippines, Inc., Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation, and Universal Motors Corporation (Nissan LCV).

Philippine Information Agency Media Release

Tsikot.com Philippines

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo yesterday ushered in a new era in Philippine transportation by calling on local car manufacturers to begin introducing vehicles that run on alternative fuels, a move that will reduce the country’s dependence on foreign oil.

Speaking to members of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines (CAMPI) during the opening of the 2nd Philippine International Motor Show at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, Mrs. Arroyo told the chief executives of the 15 participating auto brands to hasten the introduction of fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles that run partly on battery power.

“We await the arrival of hybrid vehicles,” she said. “This is part of our Green Philippines Program and having vehicles that run on renewal energy is a big help.”

CAMPI president and Universal Motors Corp. executive vice president Elizabeth H. Lee said the auto industry will be bringing in hybrid vehicles in the near future as soon as sales and production of these types of vehicles hit a critical mass in the Asian region. Cars and trucks that run on hybrid technology use a combination of battery power and fuel-fed engine to run. They consume roughly half the fuel of regular vehicles and produce less emission. Hybrid vehicles are sold in developed countries like the US and Japan.

In her opening ceremony speech, Mrs. Arroyo also paid tribute to the immense contribution of the auto industry to the economy’s growth, as well as the significance of putting up a world-class motor show in the country. “This motor show tells the world we are ready to compete,” the President said.

She also pledged to run after car smugglers who burden the industry with unfair competition. “Government sells smuggled sports cars it has confiscated at public auctions run by non-government organizations. Proceeds of the sale go to social welfare programs. We’d rather do away with the small taxes we collect to save the auto industry,” she said.

Mrs. Arroyo has also ordered the funding of a program to provide financing for the conversion of public utility vehicles to run on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
“We call on the auto industry to respond by providing more vehicles that run on hybrid technology, LPG and biodiesel,” she told CAMPI member companies. “You can also provide buses to transport employees and reduce your use of energy.”

CAMPI is holding the country’s only motor show of international calibre to highlight the strength of the auto industry. Despite a slump in car sales in the US market, sales of cars in the Philippines showed double digit growth and an 11-year high, said CAMPI president and Universal Motors Corp. executive vice president Elizabeth H. Lee. Total vehicle sales rose 14.2% for the first seven months of the year from 2006 levels on the back of strong dollar remittance from overseas Filipino workers and rising entrepreneurship.

Aside from providing jobs to more than 74,000 Filipinos who directly depend on it for their living, the local auto industry also contributes in the form of government revenues from taxes. In 2007 alone, the industry contributed a total of P18.92 billion in taxes, up from P14.94 billion in 2006.

“It is critical to understand the importance of an auto industry as a key driver to an economy, especially to one like ours. The automotive industry is perhaps one of only two remaining significant manufacturing efforts in the Philippines,” said Ms. Lee. “No successful, developed country is without an auto industry that contributes significantly to its gross domestic product,” she added.

Tsikot.com Philippines

Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMPC) announced its participation at the 2nd Philippine International Motorshow (PIMS) organized by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI). The 400-sqaure meter TMPC booth will feature the A-BAT Concept Pick-up displayed at the 2008 North American Motorshow, and the Interactive Hybrid Synergy Drive. TMPC will also launch its 20th Anniversary Vios Limited Edition Model, the new Hilux and the new Land Cruiser at the said event. The 2nd PIMS will be held from August 21 to 24, 2008 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Now on its second year, the PIMS shall showcase a host of new products and concept cars under the theme “Drive the Future towards Safer and Cleaner Motoring.” As the country’s biggest automotive company, Toyota, for its part, will make its booth exciting by introducing new models and mounting exciting exhibits. Toyota adapts its 20th Anniversary motto, “Driving Tomorrow”, as the central theme of its exhibit.

Vios XX Limited Edition
As a way of celebrating its 20th anniversary in the country, Toyota launches the locally-manufactured Vios XX Limited edition model. The sportier Vios XXLE comes with an HID headlamp, 17” alloy wheel, rear spoiler, ipod interface with upgraded audio system, and exclusive limited edition badge and key chain. With huge upgrades for a lot less, customers will surely get unlimited exhilaration with this limited edition model, with only 800 units only to be sold from August to December 2008.

New Land Cruiser
Ride to luxury, cruise with supremacy with the new pride of the land, the new Land Cruiser. Powered with a V8 Direct Injection, Common Rail System Twin Turbo-Intercooler D4D engine and a 6-speed automatic with sequential shift transmission, the new Land Cruiser boasts of power befitting the powerful. It employs new roof rail, rear spoiler and alloy wheel design.

New Hilux
Power beyond limits is the promise of the new Hilux, one of Toyota’s globally-successful International Innovative Multipurpose Vehicles (IMV). Boasting of technologically advanced engine that sets the standard of driving efficiency, the Hilux’s 3.0 and 2.5-liter D4D engines drive you to achieve the highest level of satisfaction. The 2X4 diesel Pre-runner, is a commanding addition to the line-up that would answer customer needs for a fuel-efficient powerful diesel pick-up.

A-BAT Concept Car
Toyota returns to its compact truck roots with the A-Bat concept vehicle. The environmentally advanced A-BAT provides modern versatility, roominess and style in a compact pick-up architecture. The A-BAT concept was developed by Toyota Motor Sales, USA to develop a new genre of compact vehicle with good fuel economy, advanced functionality, maneuverability, unique styling, and a durable package suitable for an active lifestyle. The A-BAT made its debut in Detroit at the 2008 North American International Auto Show last January.

Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) Simulator
The four advantages of the Toyota Hybrid System of Fuel Efficiency, Low Emissions, Acceleration, and Quietness, is conveyed easily and interactively to the audience through the HSD Simulator. Its graphic panels contain essential information, combined with the personal game experience, showcase the feature of the HSD. The HSD Simulator makes it easier and more fun to understand how Toyota’s eco-friendly Hybrid System, which powers the world’s best-selling Prius, works.

Toyota further makes its participation exciting with lots of activities, raffle prizes, and freebees for the whole family to enjoy. Visit the Toyota booth at the 2nd Philippine International Motorshow to get an exclusive Toyota 20th Anniversary Bag.

Toyota Philippines Media Release

Tsikot.com Philippines

Catch the Philippine premiere of the award-winning and best-selling Honda Jazz during the 2nd Philippine International Motor Show on August 21-24 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila. Fun and exciting games plus loads of giveaways await customers.

Honda’s second generation Honda Fit, known as the Jazz in the Philippines, has won the prestigious 2007-008 Japan Car of the Year Award (JCOTY). The All-New Honda Fit has lived on with the tradition as its predecessor grabbed the same title of JCOTY in 2001-2002.JCOTY is an annual award given to newly released or redesigned vehicles available at the Japanese market. The award has been around since 1980. Jurors are primarily composed of Japanese automotive journalists. The Honda Fit has bested over nine other models. Among JCOTY’s 60-member panelists, the Honda Fit has generated a total of 374 points, 75 points ahead of its nearest competition.

The keys behind Honda Fit’s triumph are good design and space, matched with strong driving and environment-friendly performance. Since year 2000, Honda has won five of the last eight annual awards with the addition of Honda Fit’s victory.

The new second generation Fit has not only gained prestigious recognition but also overwhelming sales reception since its debut last October 2007. In fact, the Honda Fit is Japan’s best selling passenger car for nine straight months. From January to July of the current year, the Honda Fit has reached a total of 16,293 units. Demand for the new Fit and another new minivan model, the Freed, has helped Honda boost domestic sales by 29% in July (excluding mini cars).

Visit www.hondajazzfuv.com to get more loads of fun with the Honda Jazz.

Honda Philippines Media Release

Tsikot.com Philippines

Following an official press conference held recently at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel, the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) officially released the Fact Sheet for the forthcoming 2nd Philippine International Motor Show.

The Event

The 2nd Philippine International Motor Show slated on August 21 to 24, 2008 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, Pasay City comes on the heels of last year’s successful motor show event that showcased the newest breed of passenger cars, SUVs, and commercial vehicles from local auto manufacturers and distributors.

2008 Event Theme

“Drive the Future: Towards safer and cleaner motoring” is the theme of the 2nd PIMS. Through this advocacy, CAMPI hopes to promote public awareness on measures that help reduce air pollution and CO2 emissions by supporting the Clean Air Act. This will be realized through the introduction of fuel-efficient automobiles such as hybrid cars and clean-burning, diesel-powered vehicles.

More Mileage at the 2nd PIMS

This year’s PIMS not only includes an exhibition of concept or prototype vehicles and the latest advancements in automotive technology, but also provides consumers with wider vehicle alternatives in terms of more value for money, lower maintenance cost, having better safety features, fuel efficient and significantly lower CO2 emissions.

Other unique features of this year’s PIMS:

• Automotive lifestyle events such as: automotive photography, fashion photography with cars, in-mobile entertainment exhibition, die-cast and scale model exhibits, and fine artists’ sessions;
• Technical/Garage workshops on car product installations, engine upgrading, car detailing, and preparing your car for a motor show;
• Outdoor activities such as: car club meets , free emission testing, and vehicle test drives; and
• Youth-focused activities such as educational tours for technical schools; and
• Seminars on safety driving, anti-counterfeit campaign, and Motor Sports 101.

Sustaining PIMS Events

The 2nd PIMS will still feature the following activities:

• 2nd Transport Design Competition for students
• Presentations of CAMPI members
• Special Auto Financing Promo by BPI Family Savings Bank

Bigger and Better PIMS

The event promises to be an even bigger motor show with the following additional highlights:

• Opening ceremony to gather the country’s top leaders in government and business, with no other than President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as keynote speaker;
• Wider floor area, with the new East Hall, making a total exhibit floor area of 11,000 sq.m. – a 30% increase in exhibitors’ space and number of exhibitors than last year’s motor show
• Participation of more than 20 powerful global auto brand marques represented by CAMPI members – the movers and shakers in the Philippine automotive industry – as well as leading brands in affiliate and support industries.

About CAMPI

CAMPI stands for the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI), the umbrellaindustry organization of composed of 13 of the country’s biggest automotive manufacturers and assemblersdistributors who weare participants to the Motor Vehicle Development Program (MVDP) of the government and/or official distributors of global automotive brands.

Since it was formed on May 16, 1995, CAMPI actively engages in the formation of policies, programs, regulations and standards in the industry. It is also in the forefront of major advocacies designed to further develop the local automotive industry and preserve the gains achieved under the MVDP.

Below are CAMPI’s current members:

1. Asian Carmakers Corp.
2. Columbian Autocar Corp.
3. GM Automobiles Philippines, Inc.
4. Honda Cars Philippines, Inc.
5. Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc.
6. Isuzu Philippines Corp.
7. Mitsubishi Motors Philippines
8. Nissan Motor Philippines, Inc.
9. PGA Cars, Inc.
10. Scandinavian Motors Corp.
11. Toyota Motor Philippines Corp.
12. Universal Motors Corp.
13. Suzuki Philippines, Inc.

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Helping the motoring public grapple with soaring fuel prices, local auto makers have taken the lead by offering wider choices of safe and fuel-efficient vehicles at the 2nd Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) this August.

The Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI), an organization of local carmakers and distributors, is staging the country’s “ultimate motoring event” at the World Trade Center Metro Manila on August 21 to 24.

This year’s PIMS is expected to breach last year’s crowd of 60,000 who trooped to the country’s biggest motoring event. PIMS 2008 will not only attract hordes of motoring enthusiasts, but also potential buyers on the lookout for new car models thrifty on fuel to ease their transport woes. The motor show also targets a broader visitor profile.

The event brings together 15 global auto brands representing the movers and shakers in the Philippine automotive industry, as well as leading brands in affiliate and support industries. To accommodate the bigger number of exhibitors and visitors, this year’s exhibit space has been expanded by a third to occupy over 11,000 square meters of the World Trade Center Metro Manila.
“We promise more fun, more visual appeal, and more learning,” said Elizabeth Lee, CAMPI president, as she formally launched the 2nd PIMS to media at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel on July 22.

To capture the motor show’s spirit, CAMPI adopted the theme Drive the Future: Towards Safer and Cleaner Motoring.

“We believe that as providers of tools of transportation, we can help steer the nation towards a tomorrow where cars churn up less emission, consume less fuel while generating more motive power, and protect it occupants from harm,” said Ms. Lee. “By driving the future, CAMPI is taking the lead in bringing to the country the latest in motoring advancement.”

Last year’s first PIMS carried the theme Shifting to Higher Gear, which reflected the direction the automotive industry was charting, as total vehicle sales broke the 100,000 mark in the country in 2007.

Global oil prices had since altered buying trends in the automotive industry, with customers struggling to find more affordable modes of transportation. CAMPI found itself in a position of greater responsibility to assist the motoring public in this changed environment.

Aside from being the annual motorists’ mecca for new concept cars, sprawling displays and numerous exhibits of companies offering after-market auto products, PIMS 2008 also promises to offer something for everyone.

There is an array of family-oriented activities – from scale model exhibits, seminars on karting and drifting events, car and fashion photography, to actual test drives of the latest models. CAMPI said PIMS 2008 will be a “truly experiential show” to stand out from the typical, cut-and-dry auto shows.

“Filipinos love their cars and we pledge to bring in what the world has to offer in terms of new car models, new vehicle technology and new ways of motoring,” said Ms. Lee. “This is a reflection of the dynamism and resiliency of the Philippine car industry – that despite a global downtrend on vehicle sales, local car makers continued to register growth in vehicle sales.”

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