DTI Lauds Toyota Philippines Action on Prius model

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) lauded Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) for implementing a recall on the Prius. Toyota implemented a recall on the hybrid car due to faulty brakes.

“We are pleased that TMP has taken the initiative of contacting their customers and perform the required repair at no cost to customers,” Trade Secretary Peter B. Favila said.

DTI said that mistakes that occur in the manufacture of products pose danger to the health and safety of the consuming public. When similar incidents occur in different people when using a specific product, this could be an indication that there is a flaw in its production, and when this happens, a product recall may be necessary. Read more

Senator Proposes Perks for Hydrid Vehicles

Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri proposed Tuesday a measure seeking to provide incentives to the manufacture, sale and importation of hybrid vehicles in the country.

Senate Bill No. 3397, or an Act Providing Incentives to the Manufacturer, Sale and Importation of Hybrid Vehicles, encourages public support for the development of the hybrid car industry in line with the government’s alternative fuels program.

Zubiri noted that government launched the program in an effort to reduce the country’s dependence on imported oil, and to provide cheaper and a more environment-friendly alternative to fossil fuel.

“With the continuing rise of fuel cost and the imminent decline of extractable world oil deposits, the demand for alternative transportations is expanding,” Zubiri said. Read more

Toyota Philippines to Market Prius This Year

Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. (TMPC) said there would be no additional expansions this year instead the country’s biggest car company will be launching its eco-friendly Prius model, work on some initiatives to stop other car companies from further eating into its market share and new financing schemes for its volume models.

Saying they are technically ready, TMPC president Hiroshi Ito said they are launching Prius in the local market by middle of this year. Read more

IRRI Tests Fuel Saving Toyota Prius

Amid continually rising crude oil prices and growing concerns for the degradation of the natural environment, Toyota Motors Philippines Corporation (TMP) is continuing to test the Toyota Prius. The world’s pioneer of hybrid technology, the Prius is acclaimed worldwide for its fuel efficiency and environment-friendly features.

As a hybrid, the Prius is propelled by two power sources – the electric and conventional internal combustion engines. The engine, the battery, or both can power the vehicle, depending on driving conditions. A number of Prius units were brought to the Philippines so they can be tested under local road and traffic situations. Read more