I think there are two efforts at work here:

1) the dreamers / car designers
2) the people who want to make something workable

For me you have to decide what do you want to do. Do you want to build the custom car you always wanted, or do you want to build something that people will benefit from? I don't think they are compatible.

Personally, I think what the market needs is a really cheap vehicle that's relatively safe and doesn't look ugly. If the Smart Car cost 150k it would be perfect for this role.

The large pickup/AUV type vehicle will always end up above 300k in cost. Thus putting it in competition with established brands.

Look at it this way: car manufacturers and dealers keep trying to lower the barriers to new car ownership. Example: Ford will actually let you drive home a Focus with 38000 cash out. That's total cash out, inclusive of comprehensive insurance, three-year LTO registration, and chattel mortgage. The catch? almost 20000 per month amortization for five years.

The point is, it's actually easier to buy a new car than a used car, because very few banks will allow you to finance buying a used car. And I submit, an indigenous Philippine vehicle will get lumped with the used cars.

If I can get an Isuzu Crosswind at good terms from the bank for 725k, why will I bother with an unknown locally-made car for 300k+ with a remanufactured engine? even more so when it turns out I cannot finance the 300k.