THE rainy season is here and it is but natural that we see our car companies unleashing vehicles with higher ground clearances to beat floodwaters, especially in the Big City.
Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) has taken the lead as it recently launched the all-new Outlander PHEV, the electric sport utility vehicle (SUV) with a 199-mm ground clearance to go with a combined driving range of up to 1,000 kms behind a combination of gasoline engine and electric motors. Its introductory price of P2.75 million is good until September 30.
The MMPC used the occasion to issue a company policy charting the next stage of its contribution to the Philippine automotive industry through investments, manufacturing expansion and future mobility initiatives.
In a statement through Faye Alexis Marcelino, assistant vice president for corporate public relations, the MMPC said the company’s key initiatives are its previously announced P7-billion investment, participation in the government’s Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy (EVIS) and the planned addition of hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) production to its local manufacturing portfolio in the Philippines.
HIRAKATA PLEDGE
Marcelino added that MMPC’s planned participation in EVIS ‘marks an important step in expanding its local manufacturing portfolio through the addition of HEV production, while supporting the government’s vision of strengthening the competitiveness of the Philippine automotive industry. Through this initiative, MMPC aims to broaden mobility choices for customers while contributing to the continued growth of Philippine automotive manufacturing. Beyond future mobility, MMPC continues to invest in its people, strengthen partnerships with local suppliers, and enhance the competitiveness of its operations-reinforcing its contribution to a stronger and more resilient automotive ecosystem.’
For his part, MMPC chairman Noriaki Hirakata said: ‘MMPC has always taken a long-term view of the Philippines. We see significant opportunities to strengthen local manufacturing, introduce new technologies, and help shape the next chapter of the country’s automotive industry.’
He said expanding Mitsubishi’s operations in the country has been a company priority.
‘Hybrid electric vehicles represent a practical next step for the Philippine market,’ Hirakata said. ‘By expanding our local manufacturing portfolio, we are broadening mobility choices for our customers while supporting the country’s ambition to strengthen its automotive manufacturing capabilities.’
‘Our ambition extends beyond manufacturing vehicles. We want to help position the Philippines for the future by contributing to a more competitive, innovative and resilient automotive industry,’ Hirakata added.
Mitsubishi has consistently remained No. 2 in the race ladder with an 18.72-percent share behind perennial pacesetter Toyota Motors Philippines’ leadership of cornering almost half of the total market pie consistently.
ABLAZA SPEECH
THE following piece from Carlo Ablaza, the youthful president of Lexus Manila, is one of the shortest ever speeches I’ve ever encountered. Here:
‘To our distinguished guests and the members of our Lexus family, good evening and welcome.
‘It is a pleasure to have you here at the Lexus Manila Gallery-a space built to inspire passion and create unforgettable experiences.
‘Tonight, we are here for a very special reason: to celebrate the arrival of the All-New Lexus ES.
‘For years, the Lexus ES has been the gold standard for luxury sedans, celebrated for its incredible comfort, beautiful craftsmanship and quiet confidence.
‘Our goal has always been to Make Luxury Personal. That means every single detail of this car is designed around you, ensuring that both driving and riding feel effortless. The All-New Lexus ES honors that rich history while stepping boldly into the future.
MORE CHOICES
‘THIS new model also represents our commitment to a cleaner, electrified future. We have expanded the ES lineup to include both Hybrid Electric and fully Battery Electric options. This gives you more choices to embrace electric driving in a way that fits your personal lifestyle.
‘On behalf of the entire Lexus team, thank you for sharing this milestone with us. We created this evening to show our deep gratitude to you. At Lexus, we don’t just build exceptional vehicles; we build lasting relationships.
‘We hope tonight gives you a true sense of that commitment. Without further delay, please join me in welcoming a new standard of luxury. Ladies and gentlemen, the All-New Lexus ES. Have a wonderful evening ahead.’
As they say, short but sweet. Cheers, Carlo!
PEE STOP Mary Natalie ‘Ally’ Tiongco says Lexus diehards have until Aug. 31 to avail of huge discounts on several models at Lexus Gallery Manila at BGC. What are you waiting for?….Allana Faith Rufo reports that the TGR Philippine Esports has started on August 17 and will end on September 13. The National Final is on September 27 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, with the winner pocketing P100,000 and the runnerup P75,000.