Truck Rebuilders Seek Change in Government Ruling on Emissions Test

The Used Trucks Rebuilders and Importers Association of the Philippines or UTRIP is urging the government to reconsider a DTI-FTEB (Department of Trade and Industry – Fair Trade and Enforcement Bureau) ruling requiring that imported trucks be certified from the country of their origin as Euro 4 before having a Certificate of Authority to Import or CAI issued.

In response to the new requirement, a series of dialogues were held between UTRIP and the DTI-FTEB, and it was determined that obtaining an emissions test from a rebuilt or used truck from their country of origin, especially those in Completely Knocked Down (CKD) form if extremely difficult, if not impossible. In lieu of it, DTI-FTEB said that the only alternative is to accept an Emission Test conducted by a domestic testing center duly accredited by the Land Transportation Office (LTO).

Unfortunately, this alternative can only be availed of by truck rebuilders operating inside freeport zones since their CKD trucks can be unloaded without a CAI; because a freeport zone is still considered as foreign territory.

“The requisite submission of emission test results before the issuance of CAIs puts the rebuilding program of the Government in a curious quandary: If rebuilders are required to import only CKD trucks that have passed Government standards, then what is there for us to rebuild?” asks UTRIP president Jaime Vicente.

Despite costing anywhere between 30 to 50 percent less than a brand-new truck, members of UTRIP is reiterating that they are responsible and safety-conscious. As such, they import only CKD trucks from Japan, Europe, and the US, assembling them in the Philippines. In the process, truck parts and components that require replacing in the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, as well as electrically-controlled components such as headlights, signal lights, tail lights, wipers, horns, and GPS are replaced with new parts and components.

With 25 companies under its umbrella, UTRIP counts G-Technica, GLC, Solid Machineries, Pioneer Trucks, Megaton, Mana Diesel, Firewolf, and Max Edge Industrial Corp. as some of its members. Under the umbrella of the Confederation of Truck Rebuilders and Importers Association of the Philippines (CTRIP), they employ more than 50,000 production line workers.

Vicente hopes that the government will consider bestowing upon rebuilt trucks their own classification which is distinct from either a brand-new or used units, and that it would give this due consideration in every policy decision made in the future. They also request that the DTI-FTEB resume the issuance of CAIs applied for by duly accredited rebuilders, regardless of whether their rebuilding sites are inside or outside of freeport zones. UTRIP cautions that the operations of some of their members may only run up to June 30, 2019.

The 2020 BMW 1 Series Goes Front-Wheel Drive

After more than 1.3 million examples produced in its first two generations, BMW is ushering in a new direction for its compact 1 Series: the move to a front-wheel drive platform that promises significantly more interior space without compromising the dynamic sharpness BMW is renowned for.

The result of a five-year development process, the 1 Series moves to a brand-new architecture features actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation or ARB technology. First introduced in the BMW i3 electric vehicle, ARB works in tandem the with stability control system to quell understeer—the common problem of front-wheel drive cars.

With the move towards a front-wheel drive platform, the BMW 1 Series gains massive interior space. The rear offers 19 mm more headroom, 33 more knee room, and 13 mm more elbow room than before. Meanwhile, the front passengers get an extra 42 mm more elbow room while the luggage space is up 20 liters to 380 liters. Fold the seats down and this increases to an impressive 1,200 mm.

Dimensionally, it’s 5 mm shorter (4,319 mm) than its predecessor while it’s 34 mm wider (1,799 mm) and 13 mm (1,434 mm) taller. At 2,670 mm, the wheelbase is actually 20 mm shorter than before.

The third-generation (F40)’s BMW 1 Series’s face features the newest interpretation of the trademark double kidney grille—made larger for greater presence. On the highest trim model, the classical bars have been replaced by a new mesh design. Towards the sides, it has a strong wedge shape while at the back, it has broad-set lower section and a tapering effect further up.

At launch, BMW will offer a choice of three- and four-cylinder engines. The three diesel engines and two gasoline units develop anywhere between 116 horsepower (BMW 116d) to 306 horsepower (BMW M135i xDrive). The top-of-the-line all-wheel drive variant dispatches the century mark in 4.8 seconds. Lower variants get a 6-speed manual as standard, while a 7-speed dual clutch is an available option. Moving up, the 8-speed automatic sees action in the high torque variants starting with the BMW 118d.

The all-new BMW 1 Series will officially launch at the Frankfurt Auto Show (IAA) in September 2019 with the start of global sale to start soon thereafter.

Ferrari SF90 Stradale Ushers New Era for Italian Supercar Maker

Ferrari introduces a new chapter in its history with the introduction of the SF90 Stradale—the supercar maker’s first-ever series production plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. The carmaker says this new car is meant to represent a true paradigm shift—one that combines the performance of a V8 engine with not one, not two, but three electric motors. The result? 1,000 horsepower and a power-to-weight ratio of 1.57 kilograms per horsepower.

As the top-of-the-line model in Ferrari’s series line-up, the SF90 Stradale is named for the 90th anniversary of Scuderia Ferrari, underscoring the strong link that Ferrari’s racing cars has on its road cars.

On its own, the turbocharged V8 engine is already capable of delivering 780 horsepower, the highest output of any 8-cylinder in Ferrari’s history. The remaining 220 horsepower is delivered by three electric motors—two in front and one at the back. This makes the SF90 Stradale the first-ever Ferrari sportscar to be equipped with all-wheel drive. Mated to an 8-speed dual clutch automatic, 0-100 km/h comes in 2.5 seconds and 0-200 km/h in just 6.7 seconds. The impeccable grip is provided by the entirely electric front axle making possible torque vectoring.

The introduction of the hybrid architecture was a challenge to Ferrari engineers. However, they managed to keep the overall weight, rigidity, and center of gravity optimized thanks to the new of multi-material technology such as carbon fiber.

Designed internally at the Ferrari Styling Centre, the SF90 Stradale offers more compact overhangs and a frontward-cabin design. It features a curved windshield, slender A-pillars, and a wide track creating a well-proportioned, sleek car. The compact bubble-shaped cabin has an aeronautical feel further emphasized by the two body-colored rear flying buttresses.

In an absolute first for a Ferrari, the SF90 Stradale uses matrix LED headlight technology to improve visibility in all driving conditions thanks to active beam control.

The rear of the car is dominated by high exhaust pipes which are the result of optimization of the exhaust line layout. Because the powertrain is significantly lower in the car than in the past, the designers were also able to lower the car’s tail.

Inside, the interior debuts a new design direction for Ferrari which will be carried over into the brand’s entire future range.

The designers took a futuristic approach to the interface concept with a strong focus on creating a wraparound aeronautically-inspired cockpit with particular emphasis on instruments. In a first for the brand, the central instrument cluster comprises a single 16-inch digital HD screen which curves towards the driver to make it easier to read and to emphasize the F1-style wrap-around cockpit effect. This is the first time this type of screen has been adopted in a production car.

The “hands-on-the-wheel” approach continues here with the SF90 Stradale’s steering wheel integrating a variety of touch commands such as headlight control, windshield wipers, indicators, and driving mode control all without having to take the hands off the wheel. Of the new touch controls, the compact but functional pad on the right-hand spoke allows the driver to navigate the central cluster screens, while voice and cruise controls are on the left-hand spoke.

Even the key on the SF90 Stradale is new—with a full keyless technology, it will be introduced across the rest of the model range. In addition, thanks to a special compartment in the center tunnel, it becomes an integral part of the cabin.

Finally, for the first time on a Ferrari, clients can choose between the standard car and a version with a more sports-oriented specification. The Assetto Fiorano specification includes significant upgrades, including special GT racing-derived Multimatic shock absorbers, extra lightweight features made from high-performance materials such as carbon-fiber (door panels, underbody), and titanium (springs, entire exhaust line), resulting in a weight saving of 30 kilograms. Another difference is the high downforce carbon-fiber rear spoiler which generates 390 kg of downforce at 250 km/h. The Assetto Fiorano includes Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tires designed specifically to improve performance on the track in the dry. They feature a softer compound and fewer grooves than the tires provided as standard.

Technical Specifications

Internal combustion engine

• Type V8, 90-degree, turbo, dry sump
• Total displacement 3990 cc
• Maximum power output 574 kW (780 horsepower) @ 7500 rpm
• Max torque 800 Nm @ 6000 rpm
• Specific power output 195 horsepower/l
• Max. engine speed 8,000 rpm
• Compression ratio 9.5:1

Hybrid System

• Maximum power electric motors 162 kW (220 horsepower)
• Battery capacity 7.9 kWh
• Max. range under electric power 25 km

Dimensions and Weight

• Length 4,710 mm
• Width 1,972 mm
• Height 1,186 mm
• Wheelbase 2,650 mm
• Front track 1,679 mm
• Rear track 1,652 mm
• Dry weight 1,570 kg
• Weight distribution 45% front - 55% rear
• Boot capacity 74 liters
• Rear shelf capacity 20 liters
• Fuel tank capacity 68 liters (2 reserve) 

Tires

• Front 255/35 ZR 20 J9.5
• Rear 315/30 ZR 20 J11.5
• Brakes
• Front 398 x 223 x 38 mm
• Rear 360 x 233 x 32 mm

Performance

• Maximum speed 340 km/h
• 0-100 km/h 2.5 s
• 0-200 km/h 6.7 s
• 100-0 km/h <29.5 m
• Dry weight/power 1.57 kg/horsepower
• Laptime at Fiorano 79s

Nissan Philippines Officially Launches Juke NISMO Edition

Nissan Philippines is giving its Juke sub-compact crossover a dose of sportiness with the availability of the 2019 Juke NISMO Edition.

Already a design standout, the Juke NISMO Edition comes equipped with both exterior and interior enhancements that carry Nissan’s legendary motorsports heritage. These genuine and authentic NISMO materials, coming straight from Japan brings that race day feeling to any everyday drive.

Available in three colors: Black Obsidian, Pearl White, or Brilliant Silver, the Juke NISMO Edition has a more aggressive look thanks to its new NISMO bumpers. This adds more angles to the Juke’s trademark ROBIOTIC design concept. At the front, it gains new LED clearance lamps; at the sides, re-sculpted side sills; and at the back, a built-in diffuser. The changes are capped off with the red side mirror caps, fender lip moldings, unique rear spoiler, and Sports Black 17-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the Juke’s motorcycle-inspired interior gets an added dose of sportiness thanks to its heavy dose of NISMO cues. Facing the driver is a new instrument panel with a red-faced tachometer, a three-spoke Alcantara and Leather-wrapped NISMO steering wheel, a sporty shift knob, and a sporty shift knob. Further adding to the Juke NISMO Edition’s unique character, it gets front sport bucket seats with suede side trim and a black headliner. Exclusive to the Juke NISMO Edition are side and curtain airbags.

Mechanically, the 2019 Juke NISMO Edition remains unchanged and for that, it continues with the 1.6-liter HR16DE engine making 116 horsepower and 154 Nm of torque. Mated to Nissan’s Xtronic CVT, it provides a good balance between power and efficiency. The Integrated Control System or I-CON system has also been retained.

The Juke NISMO Edition is now available at all authorized Nissan dealerships nationwide with a suggested retail price of P 1,239,000.

Foton PH's Line of Commuter Vehicles to Form Backbone of Revitalized Line-Up

Foton Motor Philippines took part in the 107th Anniversary celebration of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) by displaying their latest commuter vehicles at the LTO East Avenue, Quezon City.

The third biggest truck brand in the country showcased three workhorses built for the various transport requirements of the Philippine market: the F-Jeepney, the brand’s entry in the government’s Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) modernization program; the utilitarian Gratour TM MPV designed to move people and cargo of small and medium enterprises; and the TransVan HR suitable for private and more luxurious transport services.

“The launch of our commuter vehicles is a substantial effort to move the Philippines toward an efficient transportation network that is in line with the standards of our government, commuters, and environment,” said Foton Philippines President Rommel Sytin.

The Foton F-Jeepney was derived from the brand’s best-selling light duty truck, the Tornado 2.4C, with the rear body designed by Centro Manufacturing Corporation. It’s powered by a 2.8-liter Cummins ISF engine with 116 horsepower and 260 Nm of torque.

Not only is it designed for cleaner and more powerful mobility, it’s equipped to carry up to 24 passengers—16 seating and 8 standing. With a length of 5,650 mm, 1,828 mm width, and 2,615 mm height, the F-Jeep is more spacious, providing maximized room. Comparably, it also features wider passenger doors making ingress and egress easier.

Additionally, the Foton F-Jeepney is also equipped with an air conditioning, a GPS navigation system, a CCTV camera, dashboard camera, Wi-Fi connection, and entertainment system to keep the passengers comfortable and connected. The middle entrance operates electronically, and supports cashless payments as well.

Representing the smaller people moving segment is the Gratour TM MPV.  This vehicle is capable of carrying 14 passengers at the back and has a 1,455-kg payload capacity. The side-facing benches can be folded up to provide additional cargo room. Powering the Gratour TM is a 1.5-liter DAM15R four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 110 horsepower and 142 Nm of torque.

Sytin noted, “Our main mission is to improve basic infrastructure and provide public transportation services to drive economic and social development, to enhance the Filipino livelihoods and sustainability, and to increase the country’s ability to compete.”

Finally, specially designed for private transport, the TransVan HR uses the luxury-oriented Traveller as basis when it comes to its exteriors particularly with its high roof. It features a 16-seater configuration, dual air conditioning, a full-fledged entertainment system, and power windows and door locks. It is also equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS) with EBD and brake assist for added safety. To ensure that the TransVan HR has the power to pull its bigger and wider body, it is equipped with a 2.8-liter turbocharged common rail direct injection (CRDI) 4JB1 engine.

“With these vehicles, commuting and transporting goods from point A to point B will be smooth, accessible and cost-effective, give value to the existing resources and move the country’s system toward a less-hassle transportation system, because that’s what we all deserve,” he closed.

Hyundai Philippines Bags Best in Service Operations for Commercial Vehicles

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), the official distributor of Hyundai passenger cars and commercial vehicles in the Philippines bagged the Service Excellence Award for Best Service Operations at the 2019 Hyundai CV Global Service Conference held in Seoul, South Korea.

This triumph is the latest in a long line of awards that HARI has won since entering the commercial vehicle industry in 2016 after securing the Philippine distributorship of Hyundai trucks and buses. Earlier this year, HARI won the 2018 Regional Distributor of the Year in Asia-Pacific/Russia & CIS at the Hyundai Truck & Bus Regional Convention in Cebu City.

Last year, the Philippine After-Sales Service team won the first Hyundai Truck and Bus World Skill Olympics in South Korea. HARI was also awarded the 2017 Regional Excellence Award for Asia & Pacific, beating 15 other regional dealerships, at the 2018 Hyundai Truck and Bus Global Distributor Convention.

HARI President and CEO Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo said, “We welcome this latest recognition that validates our decision to push for the distributorship of Hyundai trucks and buses alongside passenger cars. HARI can proudly say that both divisions are multi-awarded and recognized in the global Hyundai community.”

The award was conferred by D.K. Kwon of Hyundai Motor Company’s CV Service Division at the end of the two-day Global Service Conference. Distributors from around the world gathered in Seoul, South Korea to share best practices in the commercial vehicle industry and to enhance truck and bus service capabilities.

Apart from HARI, awardees for Service Excellence included distributors from Algeria for Service Enhancement, Russia for Marketing, and Colombia for Service Cooperation.

Ms. Agudo added, “Our award-winning commercial vehicle service is now available in 11 dedicated dealerships across the country, with more in the pipeline.”

Petron Loyalty Card Holders Get Discounts at Blade Auto Centers

Good news to all Petron Loyalty Card holders. Get a 5 percent discount on all items (except electronics) by presenting your Petron Loyalty Card at any branch of Blade Auto Center—the largest car accessories chain store in the Philippines.

Valid for all cash transactions, this promo covers all Petron Loyalty Cards: Petron Miles, Petron Value Card, and Petron Fleet Card. Promo runs until February 3, 2020.

PIAA Silicone Wipers is the First Safety Upgrade I Invested In

Wipers aren’t sexy and chances are, when you buy one you won’t be running around in excitement. Despite its important role in improving safety, most wait for a downpour to recognize that their wipers are cracked and tattered, and need changing.

This is something I myself realized with my new Mazda CX-5. Like most modern automobiles, they’re equipped with beam-style wipers. Doing away with a traditional frame, they instead use a spring-steel band allowing the wiper to conform to the curvature of the windshield. Sadly, I also find them highly susceptible to Manila’s harsh heat.

Since it soaked up the summer sun, as soon as I used the wipers for the first time, they chattered which made the premium driving experience of the CX-5 feel less-than-luxurious. Realizing it’s just going to get worse, I went ahead and invested on a pair of PIAA Silicone wipers.

PIAA Silicone wipers have silicone and graphite particles embedded in the wiper itself. As it’s used, it creates a water repellent barrier on the glass surface causing water drops to bead, similar to having a well-waxed car. In addition to the silicone’s water repellent properties, the graphite material has lower friction than natural rubber guaranteeing a smooth wiping action.

What’s more, PIAA Silicone wipers are said to last up to twice as long as natural rubber ones. In internal tests, after subjected to 100-degree Celsius heat for more than 100 hours, the PIAA Silicone wipers maintained its sharp, clean edge compared to the competition. This negates the need to lift the wiper blades during the summer.

PIAA offers three kinds of silicone wipers: Traditional (Super Silicone), Hybrid (Aero Vogue), and Flat/Beam-Style (Si-Tech). Because the second-generation CX-5 uses the new “cartridge-type” beam-style wipers found in newer Mazda, Subaru, and Lexus automobiles, the frameless Si-Tech is the only one that’ll fit.

Costing less than P 3,000 for a pair, the PIAA Silicone wipers give a first good impression. Compared to the stock wiper blade, it’s noticeably thicker and more robust in construction. It also comes with five connectors and adapters and a windshield prep pad.

Replacing the wipers on cars fitted with traditional J-hook wipers are straightforward because the Si-Tech arrives with that connector pre-installed. However, for newer vehicles like the CX-5, it’s important that the PIAA Silicone wiper must come with the “F Connector” since this is the one you’ll need to fit the Japanese cartridge-type wipers. A bit more dismantling is needed, but if you’re used to following LEGO assembly instructions, wiper replacement shouldn’t take more than 10 minutes.

It’s funny, but after installing the PIAA Silicone wipers on my CX-5, I’m actually looking forward to a bit of rain to thoroughly test them out. In the weeks since its install, there have been some midday showers, but not enough to cause serious visibility impairment. Regardless, because of PIAA Silicone wipers’ water beading properties, quality construction, and longer durability, I feel like I’m more than ready to face the rainy season head-on.

PIAA Silicone Wipers are available at select automotive accessories shop. Interested parties can also contact or inquire over at their official Facebook page or through 63 917 575 4812.

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Newly-Appointed Fuso Distributor Shows Off Modern Jeepney Design

With its new distributor, Sojitz Fuso Philippines, Fuso is now intent on getting a slice of the government’s PUV Modernization program with its very own Modern PUV prototype.

With the government aiming to replace some 200,000 public utility jeepneys in the next 6 years, Sojitz Fuso Philippines has partnered with Centro Manufacturing in showing off the Fuso Canter PUV. Centro Manufacturing is one of the accredited body-builders of Fuso for the Modern PUV program.

Fuso will be offering both Class 2 and Class 3 PUVs, based on the Canter Commuter and Canter Express respectively. The Fuso Canter PUV is powered by a Euro 4 compliant diesel engine and meets the Bureau of Philippine Standards PNS 2126:2017 which covers body dimensions for the Modern PUV.

“We congratulate Sojitz Fuso Philippines for being appointed the new distributor of Fuso in the Philippines and for proactively joining the PUV Modernization Program of the Philippines. We at Centro wish to say that we are behind Sojitz Fuso Philippines all the way as we usher in the new era of public transport and modern logistics in the Philippines,” said Centro President Raffy Juan.

Isuzu Philippines Officially Launches 2019 D-MAX Boondock Edition

A month after the festive and successful launch of the I Love Isuzu campaign last April, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) shifts the celebration a bit further south at Isuzu Santa Rosa with its “Open House” concept.

The “Open House” concept, part of the I Love Isuzu campaign is the company’s way of making its products and services closer to its customers and potential buyers. The first such event also saw the official market launch of the D-MAX Boondock.

Based on actual feedback, including members of the D-MAX Club coming from Team Isuzu Pilipinas and Team ICE, the D-MAX Boondock Edition packs a tougher, more durable, and more powerful persona.

With a higher ride height of 247 millimeters and a 1,900-millimeter overall height, the D-MAX Boondock Edition gains a muscular, off-road ready look sought by pickup buyers today.

Based on the D-MAX 3.0L LS, the D-MAX Boondock Edition is fitted with 265/70 R 17 All-Terrain Tires with black alloy rims. The all-terrain tire package has been engineered to provide ultimate traction across various conditions, whether on the highway or on the trail.

The height increase is due to new monotube nitrogen-charged performance shock absorbers which ensures instantaneous response to changing road conditions and offers faster damping reaction. As a result, the D-MAX Boondock Edition should have improved steering control.

Visually differentiating the D-MAX Boondock Edition, it has steel side steps with a honeycomb design with the Boondock logo. It also comes equipped with a roof rail, cargo extender, rocker panel, over fender, and a massive “Boondock” decal on the tailgate.

Under the hood, the D-MAX Boondock Edition packs a Euro-4 emission rated 4JJ1-TCX 4-Cylinder with 177 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. That said, this beefed-up version is only available as a 4x2 variant in two colors: Cosmic Black and Galena Gray. It comes with a choice between a manual or automatic. The D-MAX 3.0 4x2 LS MT Boondock retails for P 1,390,000, while the D-MAX 3.0 4x2 LS AT Boondock goes for P 1,455,000.

A Closer Look at the 2019 Honda Civic (w/ 17 Photos)

The Brio may have been the main event, but Honda Cars Philippines also presented the refreshed 2019 Civic for a closer look. It serves as our appetizer for a full-on test drive in the next few weeks.

On hand were the 1.8 E and 1.5 RS Turbo (the first shipment of the new entry-level 1.8 S will be available in June). Powertrain-wise, the 2019 Civics see little change. All models are available solely with the Earth Dreams CVT transmission with the normally-aspirated 1.8-liter SOHC i-VTEC making 141 horsepower and 174 Nm of torque while the 1.5-liter i-VTEC Turbo making 173 horsepower and 230 Nm of torque.

For 2019, the changes are mostly cosmetic with the top-range RS Turbo finally getting new “Belrina Black” 18-inch alloy wheels that match the visually widened lower air intake and high-gloss solid wing grille. Meanwhile, the 1.8 E gets new “Shark Gray Metallic” 16-inch alloy wheels that add a dose of sportiness.

The biggest news though is the availability of a new entry-level 1.8 S variant. At P 1,115,000, it’s one of the best bang-for-the-buck compact sedans locally. Naturally, this necessitated the removal of some accessories—LED headlights and leather steering wheel to name two, but at least important features such as dual SRS airbags, ABS with EBD, and vehicle stability control have been retained.

On the flipside, the RS Turbo gains added features such as alloy sport pedals to go with the refreshed leather interior trim. Both the 1.8 E and RS Turbo also get an upgraded 7-inch Touch Screen Advanced Display Audio System with Apple Car Play and Android Auto (with added GPS navigation for the RS Turbo) as well as integrated hard buttons and volume knobs for easier control.

As mentioned previously, all Civic models benefit from a solid suite of safety equipment, but the RS Turbo gets more with four additional airbags for a total of six. This makes the 2019 Civic, specifically the RS Turbo variant, a recipient of a 5-Star ASEAN NCAP safety rating.

On hand during the presentation is the RS Turbo specific Rallye Red color as well as the new Platinum White Pearl (available on all variants) on the 1.8 E which costs an additional P 20,000 more.

With its solid list of standard features as well as the availability of a new value-for-money variant, Honda Cars Philippines is confident that the refreshed Civic will retain its position as the compact segment’s best-selling model.