Modern Jeepney Prototypes under CARS Program to be Unveiled This October

The government's Jeepney Modernization Program is in full swing now, with finished jeepney prototypes to be exhibited by the Philippine Modernization Philippine Parts Makers Association at the Philippine Trade Training Center on October 12.

Dubbed "Gawang Pilipino para sa Pilipino" (Made by Filipinos for Filipinos), the exhibit will showcase 14 prototypes from various local body builders in the country. Under the Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) Program, these new jeepneys will showcase the local manufacturing capabilities of the Philippines.

Built by different local body builders

According to Philippine Parts Makers Association President and lead organizer Ferdie Raquelsantos, the new prototypes will be launched by different local body builders.

These low-emission, eco-friendly jeepneys will have better safety features compared to the present ones, with some even equipped with air conditioned units.

Not all parts are “locally-made”

Despite having most of the car parts localized, the main platform and rolling chassis used for these jeepneys will still be built abroad. Currently, some of the companies that are collaborating with body builders in the Philippines include Hino, Isuzu, Fuso, and Foton.

These modern PUVs will be priced at around P1.2 million to P1.6 million (for the air conditioned units), and will be fitted with two engines: Electric and Euro 4 platforms. The Euro 4 engines are made from different countries like India, China, and Japan.

CARS Program spearheads the Modernization Program

The main goal of the CARS program is to: "attract new investments, stimulate demand, effectively implement industry regulations that will revitalize the Philippine automotive industry, and develop the country as a regional automotive manufacturing hub."

It has already been happening for some time now, with the country now manufacturing local parts for some major car brands like Mitsubishi and Toyota. Models such as Toyota Vios and Mitsubishi Mirage are just some of the vehicles that have been fitted with locally-made parts. These include: wire harnessing, metal parts, body shell, plastics like bumper, instrumentation panel, dashboard, seat assembly, rubber and seatbelts.

And while the program encourages drivers to buy these modernized jeepneys locally, it also allows drivers to purchase them straight from countries like China. Still, the advantage of availing through the CARS incentive is that these vehicles come with a warranty, unlike those that come from other countries.​