Let's discuss kei cars...

[architect]

Japan has actually been successful exporting kei cars to the U.K., India, China, and other countries. In fact some models are being manufactured in those countries. However in such cases, the engines have typically been upgraded from the maximum 660cc to 800cc and higher. Also, some models have been enlarged beyond the maximum width of 1475 mm as regulated by the Japanese government for kei cars (e.g. Suzuki Wagon R+).

While technically these no longer qualify as kei cars, they still share a lot of characteristics with genuine kei cars, notably the small size, economical price, and higher fuel mileage.

Previously, industry analysts have questioned the appeal of entry-level mini cars in markets such as India and the Philippines where vehicles (even tricycles) are often overloaded and (ab)used for just about any transportation requirements. Hence, affordable utility vehicles are much preferred.

Yet Maruti is now producing the Alto in India, Tata will be delivering the Nano by Sept/Oct and here in the Philippines, the (Maruti) Alto, Chevy Spark, and even the Chery QQ are fast gaining ground in low down payments and relatively affordable monthly payments. On a parallel development, chopped-up genuine kei second-hand Suzuki Wagon Rs (660 cc) knocked-down kits are beginning to proliferate in Pampanga, Bulacan, and Cavite.

So, the questions are - has the local buying public began to accept kei cars? Will the difference in engine (1100cc vs 800cc vs 660cc) matter greatly - given gasoline prices are expected to further skyrocket? If general market acceptance progresses, how will EDSA traffic/NLEX/SLEX etc evolve?

Just some thoughts...

[wildthing]

i simply find them cute... pero given the option of choosing between a big vehicle (suburban, H1 or the like) and a Kei car.... I'll still pick the big vehicle.

i will get me a Kei car if and only if it was intended as a hobby vehicle.

[architect]

I think for those who can afford it, majority will opt for the bigger car, given the chaotic local traffic situation.

But for those who can only afford one entry-level car, the option would be either a brand new kei car or second-hand subcompacts or AUVs.

[OyiL]

I think for those who can afford it, majority will opt for the bigger car, given the chaotic local traffic situation.

But for those who can only afford one entry-level car, the option would be either a brand new kei car or second-hand subcompacts or AUVs.

If we build and sell our pinoy designed kei cars, to have an advantage over japanese brand new, second-hand subcompacts, and foreign-made (of course not our own ) AUV's, what should ours have?

[OyiL]

http://japanoid.com/

there are four sub-categories
1. van
2. sports car
3. truck
4. regular car

[architect]

If we build and sell our pinoy designed kei cars, to have an advantage over japanese brand new, second-hand subcompacts, and foreign-made (of course not our own ) AUV's, what should ours have?

Hmmm, that is a very good question.

One thing I can think of is price. Looking at the components used, if we use a China-made F6A, we should be able to sell ours at a price way below the P350K price of new mini-cars.

[OyiL]

*dondi,

Great Design! Can You Make It Fit The Kei Car Specifications (reference - http://keicars.blogspot.com - May Official Specs Dyan). Can You Do A 5-door Version (4 Doors And Liftgate)?

Btw What Software Are You Using?

Thanks.
We Are Planning To Buy Some Suzuki Wagon R Knockdown Kits That Will Serve As The Basis For The Prototypes.

U Got Me Interested

[architect]

BTW, the group is looking for more "angel funders." We already have pledges for the first two prototypes. The molds we are making can be used to build ten prototypes.

[architect]

Uy, OyiL, kala ko interested ka mula sa umpisa!?!

Anyways, go for it. I am sure you will be able to come up with several interesting designs. Ikaw pa!

[dx2r]

Japan has actually been successful exporting kei cars to the U.K., India, China, and other countries. In fact some models are being manufactured in those countries. However in such cases, the engines have typically been upgraded from the maximum 660cc to 800cc and higher. Also, some models have been enlarged beyond the maximum width of 1475 mm as regulated by the Japanese government for kei cars (e.g. Suzuki Wagon R+).

While technically these no longer qualify as kei cars, they still share a lot of characteristics with genuine kei cars, notably the small size, economical price, and higher fuel mileage.

Previously, industry analysts have questioned the appeal of entry-level mini cars in markets such as India and the Philippines where vehicles (even tricycles) are often overloaded and (ab)used for just about any transportation requirements. Hence, affordable utility vehicles are much preferred.

Yet Maruti is now producing the Alto in India, Tata will be delivering the Nano by Sept/Oct and here in the Philippines, the (Maruti) Alto, Chevy Spark, and even the Chery QQ are fast gaining ground in low down payments and relatively affordable monthly payments. On a parallel development, chopped-up genuine kei second-hand Suzuki Wagon Rs (660 cc) knocked-down kits are beginning to proliferate in Pampanga, Bulacan, and Cavite.

So, the questions are - has the local buying public began to accept kei cars? Will the difference in engine (1100cc vs 800cc vs 660cc) matter greatly - given gasoline prices are expected to further skyrocket? If general market acceptance progresses, how will EDSA traffic/NLEX/SLEX etc evolve?

Just some thoughts...

may alam po kayong dealer ng suzuki wagon r? saan po? pakiemail po : dx2r_ae77*yahoo.com