Jeepneys are a primary form of transportation in Philippines, even considered a national identity because it is unique to the country.
But recently, there is some stir in the public utility jeepneys (PUJ) sector as the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTRFB) enforces the PUJ modernization program by the Duterte administration.
Fleets of jeepneys are about to be phased out as the program aims to modernize the 220,000 PUJ across the country and provide a safer transport system for commuters while mitigating the effects of climate change.
Part of the transition is to replace jeepneys 15 years and older and require operators to purchase new units that are compliant with the guidelines on low-carbon and low emission technology.
While the Department of Transportation (DOTr) estimates that the PUV modernization plan is possible within three years, Japanese truck maker Isuzu prepares itself by redesigning the traditional jeepney into a modern one.
Source: Sam Navalta via Entrepreneur Philippines
The Isuzu modern jeepney carries 12% more cargo than conventional jeepneys at 2,325 kilograms of payload, with the vehicle itself weighing 3,8000 kilograms. It has an 18-person seating capacity including the driver.
Its engine is a 4 cylinder, water-cooled, 4 cycle, in-line, OHV with automatic engine stop device, turbo-charged with intercooler and direct injection. The Isuzu modern jeepney still runs on diesel with a 75-liter tank capacity.
“The modern jeepneys are designed to meet regulations in emission, safety and roadworthiness. It will also provide better passenger comfort,” noted Joseph Bautista, a division manager at Isuzu Philippines’ marketing department.
Source: Paulo Subido via Top Gear PH
A prototype was displayed side by side with heavy, medium, and light-duty trucks during the Isuzu Philippines Corp. (IPC)’s Truck Fest at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, April 20 to 23, 2017. Centro Manufacturing Corp., one of Isuzu Philippines’ accredited suppliers, designed and built the body of the prototype.
Bautista shared that Isuzu Philippines also plans to be in sync with the government’s public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization, not only that of PUJ, but the government is yet to finalize the vehicle mix. “Right now, we’re still talking about the specifications,” he said.
If everything has been ironed out by the LTFRB and the DOTr, Isuzu Philippines is set to become a key player in the production of the modern PUV.
“They [the government] want to modernize the transport system so we hope to supply jeepney alternatives, mini buses and so on,” said Bautista. According to him, the company plans to launch the new vehicle line by 2018 to 2019.
Source: Entrepreneur
