Mindanao's First Cooperative to Join the PUV Modernization Program Chooses Hyundai

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), continues its support for the country’s PUV Modernization Program with the turn over of the first batch of Hyundai HD50S Class 2 Modern PUVs to the Public Transport Alliance of Gensan (PTAG), led by PTAG President Robert N. Cang. 15 out of the 326 units orderered by PTAG were turned over.

PTAG, one of the country’s major transport cooperatives, comprising 11 groups and around 2,000 individual members, is the first Mindanao transport cooperative to comply with the national Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).

The turn over ceremony took place in General Santos City Oval Plaza in the presence of Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Chairman Atty. Martin B. Delgra III, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Assistant Secretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Atty. Mark Steven Pastor, LTFRB Region XII Director Col. Paterno Reynato Padua (Ret.), PTAG President Robert Cang, and representatives from Hyundai Asia Resources Inc. (HARI) Commercial Vehicles Division.

In his speech, DOTr Asec. Pastor expressed confidence that the government program is gaining traction as operators, drivers, and commuters alike are realizing the economic, social, and environmental benefits of modernizing the local public transport system.

Asec. Pastor further reported: “Sa huling datos natin nitong Disyembre 2019, lumalabas na 1,030 na mga kooperatiba na binubuo ng 104,000 na miyembro ang accredited ng Office of the Transportation Cooperatives (OTC). Umabot na rin sa 562 ang authorized routes sa ilalim ng programa na may 15,650 authorized units. Sa bilang na ito, 4,120 ang operational na.” The Assistant Secretary ended with a rallying call to continue supporting the widespread implementation of PUVMP.

Echoing the DOTr’s call, PTAG President Cang confirmed, “Dati nasubukan namin ang e-jeep at nakita namin ang epekto nung paggamit ng bagong unit. Pero sa modernized jeepney units, nakikita namin na bukod sa maayos na public transport system at mas convenient ito sa mga commuter, malaki ang benepisyo nito sa mga kooperatiba kaya buo ang suporta namin sa programa ng LTFRB.”

The event also saw strong support from the local government with the presence of General Santos City Mayor Ronnel Rivera who hailed the progress of PUVMP in his city; while LTFRB Chairman Delgra expressed hope that the program would reach the farthest corners of the country.

The 15 Hyundai HD50S Class 2 Modern Jeepney units will operate under Lagao Drivers Operators Transport Cooperative (LADOTRANSCO) and will traverse three routes: Doña Soledad to Lagao Public Market, Calumpang to Lagao Public Market, and Calumpang to San Jose.

The Hyundai Class 2 Modern Jeepney is built on Hyundai’s HD50S platform and is powered by a 2.9-liter Euro 4-compliant CRDi engine that provides better fuel efficiency, reliability, and cleaner emissions. It is designed for enhanced stability and power-to-weight ratio, boasting a 3,415-millimeter wheelbase.

The Class 2 vehicle also features roof-mounted air conditioning, AFCS, Wi-Fi, GPS tracking, CCTV cameras, 7-inch monitor, and speed limiter. It can accommodate 22 seated passengers as well as up to ten standing commuters.

Both units have figured prominently in numerous PUV caravans in 2019 and were granted their DOTr Certificate of Compliance (COC), signaling that they are ready for deployment across the country.

Isuzu Previews Traviz-Based Modern PUV

Isuzu previewed their new Class 1 Modern PUV based off its recently launched Traviz light-duty truck. It was shown during the turnover of 30 brand-new modern PUVs to the Pangkalahatang Sanggunian Manila & Suburbs Drivers Association (Pasang-Masda), one of the country’s biggest transport groups.

The Traviz Class 1 Modern PUV passes the DOTr Omnibus Franchise Guidelines, and will replace the quintessenial jeepney in plying crowded inner-city roads.

It was shown as the Japanese commercial vehicle giant turned over a third batch of modern PUVs to Pasang-Masda. The 30 units will ply the busy route between the growing cities of Malolos and Meycauayan in Bulacan Province.

According to Isuzu, their modern PUVs are not only beneficial to the commuters but also to the drivers and operators as it increases the quality of their livelihood. Isuzu modern PUVs are very versatile, allowing for customization that any PUV operations may require.

The units turned over to Pasang-Masda use the Isuzu QKR77 platform and the rear body designed and manufactured by Almazora Motors Corporation. They are are air-conditioned Class 2 PUVs assembled in the Philippines and are equipped with Euro IV-compliant 4JH1-TC diesel engine that delivers excellent fuel economy. The air conditioning system, developed and provided by Coolaire Consolidated Inc., boasts ducted airflow and a high-cooling capacity to keep commuters comfortable regardless of outdoor temperature.

Other design features of the Isuzu Class 2 Modern PUV include panoramic windows and windshields, full-body insulation with GeneQ shield, automatic door closer, and provisions for persons with disabilities.

Completing the modernized look and features of the new PUVs are the LED electronic signages for vehicle route information, fire extinguishers, CCTV, dash cam and back-up cameras, and the automatic fare collection provided by Euodoo Technologies, Inc.

Hino Philippines Aims to Have 500 Modern PUVs by the End of the Year

Hino Motors Philippines (HMP) closes the year with more than 300 units of modernized PUVs turned over to different transport cooperatives nationwide. As 2020 approaches, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to support the government’s flagship program for the transportation industry.

A pioneer supporter of the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP) in line with the government’s vision of a restructured, modern, well-managed and environment-friendly transportation system for the Filipinos, HMP has backup up the program since it was announced by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in 2017 through planning and execution. Prior to the launch of the PUVMP, the DOTr hosted a one-day expo featuring modern PUV prototypes. There, Hino showcased its Class II and Class III AC and non-AC modernized jeepney prototypes during the said expo.

Hino likewise joined the first Modern PUV Caravan held at the Clark Economic Zone in Pampanga. The company rolled out its first set of Class II PUVs to the Pateros-Fort Bonifacio Transport Service and Multi-Purpose Cooperative (TSMC) and Taguig Transport Service Cooperative (TSC), the first two transport cooperatives to receive modern PUVs from Hino, in July 2018.

To date, Hino has established partnerships with 16 local transport cooperatives. The company has turned over a total of 364 modern PUV units nationwide. Most of these modern PUVs are already operating in Metro Manila, and many have reached other parts of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Hino is set to turn over more units this month to reach its goal of 500 modernized PUVs turned over to transport cooperatives by the end of the year.

As the only local one-stop shop for trucks and buses in the Philippines, Hino is proud to offer its end-to end services— from design and development to manufacturing and spare parts supply— to the government and its transport cooperative partners. Hino’s modernized PUVs have been awarded with a Certificate of Compliance from the DOTr for having passed the Philippine National Standards (PNS)’s dimension requirements and other standards set by the national government.

Hino PUV units come in two variants--Class II and Class III in AC and non-AC versions. The Hino Class II PUV is designed like the standard jeepney with side-facing passenger seats. The jeepney can accommodate standing passengers to maximize capacity. The Class III model is an air-conditioned mini bus-type with front-facing passenger seats with seatbelts. Both PUV types can accommodate 23 to 30 passengers. Powered by Euro 4 engines, these modern PUVs are set to deliver safe, efficient and sustainable transportation for Filipinos.

As Hino enters 2020, the company hopes to strengthen the presence of its PUVs in Metro Manila and other parts of the country.

25 More Isuzu Modern PUVs Hit the Road in South Metro Manila

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC), the country’s leading manufacturer and distributor of brand-new trucks, continues its effort to support the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) to bring safer, more efficient, more convenient, and more environmentally sustainable transport system to Filipinos.

IPC turned over the third batch of brand-new Isuzu PUVs to MetroExpress Connect Inc. (MCI), which consists of 25 units that will ply the routes of Las Piñas to Daang Hari, Kawit, Cavite to PITX, Tanza, Cavite to PITX, and General Trias to Daang Hari.

 MCI started as shuttle services group, with a fleet of no more than 20 shuttles servicing private subdivisions, providing quality transportation to communities, connecting them to commercial developments and city centers.

As the years progress, MCI have soon acquired bigger and bolder projects, widening their operation, and choosing Isuzu PUVs as their transportation hub, MCI will be able to guarantee its commuters to have a safe, seamless, and reliable transportation.

IPC’s modernized PUVs assembled using the Isuzu QKR77 platform and the PUV body designed and manufactured by Almazora Motors Corp, is equipped with the Euro IV-compliant 4JH1-TC diesel engine that delivers better fuel economy and cleaner emissions than jeepneys; thus guarantees its clients like MetroExpress Connect Inc. to provide quality and reliable transportation, connecting passengers and communities to their destinations the easy way.

IPC President Hajime Koso encouraged other transport companies across the country to already make that switch to safer, cleaner, more convenient, and more reliable modernized PUVs. “I have always believed that the Isuzu PUVs are truly a vehicle made by the Filipinos for the Filipinos and we are confident that these units will be able to provide a more durable, comfortable, and safe transport solution for the riding public.”

DOTr Clarifies Why We Can't Have Vans as Modern PUVs

With the Department of Transportation (DOTr)’s PUV Modernization Program in full swing, several netizens pointed out an obvious question: why the need for specialized units based on trucks or pickups when carmakers have vans and minibuses ready for deployment.

Well, DOTr Undersecretary for Land Transport, Mark de Leon clarifies this.

Modern PUVs are required to have a side door on the curb side with a floor to ceiling height set at 1.75 meters (roughly 5 feet and 7 inches). By comparison, the Hiace LXV is measured at just 1.52 meters (5 feet) while a minibus such as the Toyota Coaster still falls short at 1.66 meters (5 feet and 4 inches). This makes it more convenient and safer for passengers to get in and out. It also allows for standing passengers translating into additional income for the driver.

More than just the door and height, de Leon says that even the distances between seats and the gangways or aisles are all set based on international standards (Class I and Class III of UNECE M2—vehicles for the carriage of passengers having more than 8 seats and having a maximum mass not exceeding 5 tons). For those curious, the minimum seat width set for a Modern PUV is at 400 millimeters (15.7 inches). Moreover, hand or grab rail standards are specified as are emergency exits.

These standards are all covered via the DTI’s Bureau of Public Standards: BPS PNS 2126:2017 and PNS 2131:2018. Separately, the DTI will also create a standard for PWD access for these Modern PUVs.

“That is why we really need the support of the passengers and all stakeholders in the PUV sector to ensure the success of the PUV Modernization Program as it is the biggest non-infrastructure program of the Duterte Administration. It has long been awaited for and this is our chance to make this happen,” says de Leon.

DOTr Hits Back at Critics of PUV Modernization Program

The Department of Transportation, through Undersecretary for Land Transport Mark de Leon clarified some issues raised against the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP) of the government.

One big issue is financing the purchase of a modern PUV where those against the PUVMP have argued that there is no way the drivers who are members of transport cooperatives can pay for a  P 1.6-million to P 2.2-million modern PUV (their monthly loan amortization is estimated to be P 26,000).

Usec. De Leon explains that the 5-6-7 loan programs of both DBP and Landbank are very liberal. “It translates to a very low downpayment of only 5 percent and the government has a subsidy of P 80,000 to cover this up to the price of not more than P 1.6-million. The annual interest rate is only 6 percent, and the payment term is a long seven years. And the estimated P 26,000 monthly loan amortization? The driver will pay for this through a daily loan amortization of P 800.00 to P 1,000.00 collected through the Automated Fare Collection System that comes with the modern PUV”.

He adds that the P 800.00 to P 1,000.00 daily loan amortization is almost the same as the boundary a PUJ driver pays to his operator under the current daily boundary system. “So instead of giving the same amount to his operator, he gives it to the bank and in 7 years, the modern PUV will be his. This will not happen under the old daily boundary system even if the driver has paid 7, 10, 15 or even 20 long years to his operator. At the end of the day, he does not have to work hard for 16 hours yet still has more than enough left to take home. It is because the modern PUV generates extra income since it allows for some 6 to 8 standing passengers and the air conditioned comfort provided allows for a higher minimum basic fare. Also because it is brand new, there is much less lost income due to downtime due to break down and repairs”.

Another challenge facing the DOTr in the PUVMP implementation is the fleet consolidation of the many franchises in every route.

“The government is determined to have modern public transportation by end of the term of President Duterte in 2022, and that deadline set for operators to shift to authorized units will not be extended”, De Leon said. “By next year 2020, they will get a notice to modernize. If they still refuse to modernize, the DOTr will revoke the franchises of these operators and the government will open the franchises to other operators”.

He adds that the DoTr will require operators running the same route to have to consolidate their fleet and franchises to do away with competition for passengers. “Through such a scheme, operators can reduce their overhead cost per unit by consolidating their fleet in just one terminal and streamlining their operations. We can then start a program in which drivers are paid regular wages by operators who incorporate themselves into transport corporations. The current boundary system in which drivers remit a fixed amount to their operators daily result to cutthroat competition on the roads.”

De Leon also observes that commuting takes a long time because of the fragmented franchising system. “An individual franchise holder can operate even just one unit under a daily boundary system. Drivers are forced to compete for passengers among themselves, to stop at every street corner and stay there until full. This results not only to long travel time for commuters but inconvenience to other motorists as well due to jeepneys obstructing street corners”.

The same is true at jeepney terminals or stops where commuters have to endure a long waiting time. “Drivers, when tired or already satisfied with their income, go home, leaving commuters waiting for a ride home, not knowing when the next jeep or UV Express will come. They say we lack empathy. I want to inform all those critics that we have been pushing for commuter first policy here at the DOTr”.

He explains further that another option to get into the PUVMP is for fifteen drivers to form a transport cooperative. “With a bigger number, they could easily negotiate for volume discounts for the vehicle and parts with the modern PUV dealers. But really, to make the PUVMP work, we must have the support of the riding public too”.

Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board chairman Martin Delgra III agrees and explains that the PUVMP is the biggest non-infrastructure program of the Duterte Administration. “For so long as there is public support, strong popular support, the PUVMP will continue. With the private sector, we are now in the midst of a nationwide Modern PUV Caravan covering most major cities outside of Metro Manila. We bring down and discuss at the grassroots level the issues and concerns of the different PUVMP stakeholders. Here, we are getting encouraging feedback from all across the country that there is very strong support for it”.

In the end, De Leon thinks that we can all shift to modern PUV, but without everyone of the various stakeholders on board, all of us stand to lose, most especially the commuting public who have been suffering for so long. “As one, let us send the message that the PUVMP is one of the best answers toward addressing the commuter problems in our country”.

Toyota's Hilux-Based Modern PUV Looks Odd, But is Affordable

Toyota Motor Philippines has now entered the government’s PUV Modernization program with this Hilux-based 12-seater offering. Admittedly, the proportions are odd, given the low driver cabin and tall passenger compartment, but at P 998,000, it’s one affordably-priced Modern PUV.

Backed by Toyota’s penchant for making durable and reliable vehicles, it should fast track the roll out of Modern PUVs, particularly the Class 1 where this Hilux PUV competes in.

As Class 1 modern PUV, the Toyota Hilux prototype has smaller dimensions and passenger capacity (12-seater maximum), and can be considered as the ideal PUV type to service inner city, municipality or barangay/secondary routes, which are currently being served by 10-seater multi-cabs.

It should be noted that under the government’s PUVMP, there are actually 3 classes of public utility vehicles: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3:

• Class 1 are 9 to 12 seater PUVs, good for narrow barangay, municipal or provincial roads. Its size and price range makes it a better alternative in areas with lower transport demand.
• Class 2 and 3 (maximum 23 passenger seating capacity) are the current ones being eyed as replacement to the jeepney, except in seating arrangement where Class 2 has the regular jeepney seating, but with ceiling height that will let average Filipinos stand in the middle. Class 2 are made for moving people around the city with quick to board, quick to exit functions.
• Class 3, on the other hand, are front facing variants. These units are the required replacement for all UV Express. Good for point-to-point routes because of its more relaxed seating arrangement. Even though its layout is front facing, the vehicles are required to maintain an aisle in the middle and its width is also being measured.

Despite its small stature, the Hilux is categorized as Class 1 and has all the required features of a modern PUV including dashcams, CCTVs, WiFi, and an automated fare collection system. It’s also fully air conditioned, and PWD-friendly. Additionally, it passes the Philippine National Standard (PNS) requirements for minimum step heights, door widths, seat heights and widths, and ceiling heights, aisle, and gangway widths.

Powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine, the Hilux Class 1 Modern PUV makes a healthy 147 horsepower and 343 Nm of torque coupled to a 5-speed manual. And with an 80-liter fuel tank, it should mean less fuel stops, too.

First Hyundai Class 2 Modern PUV Rolls Off Production Line

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), one of the country’s leading local automotive companies, marked another milestone as it received the first five units of the HD50S Modern Jeepney Class 2 from assembly partner Del Monte Motor Works, Inc. (DMMWI) recently.

These initial units were turned over to HARI Commercial Vehicle (CV) dealerships in support of the government’s PUV Modernization Program.

HARI President and CEO Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo said at the roll off ceremony, “Since we began our Commercial Vehicle business in 2016, we have strongly supported PUV Modernization, as we are excited about the many new ways we could serve Filipinos. At last, we are thrilled to see our vision and our promise come to life! We forged this strong partnership with Del Monte since we share the same aim – give jeepney operators and commuters a safer, more efficient, and convenient mode of transport.”

The Hyundai H-100 Modern Jeepney Class 1 and Hyundai HD50S Modern Jeepney Class 2 recently received their Certificate of Compliance (COC) from the Department of Transportation (DOTr), signaling that the models are ready for deployment across the country.

Narciso Morales, President of DMMWI, welcomed guests from HARI and from Hyundai’s nationwide dealership network to their assembly facility and expressed confidence in his plant’s capacity to meet the gold standards of Hyundai: “We have been in this business for 70 years… with six plants all over the country… Combining Korean technology and Del Monte’s experience in the manufacturing sector, we are determined to accomplish HARI’s projected target.”

Established in 1950, DMMWI promotes Filipino engineering ingenuity through skilled craftsmanship of durable bodies for trucks and buses. Del Monte also assembled Hyundai’s initial Class 2 prototype unveiled during the opening ceremonies of the Hyundai Power Solutions Mobility Expo held at the LausGroup Event Centre in San Fernando, Pampanga.

The Hyundai Modern Jeepney Class 2 is built on Hyundai’s HD50S platform and is powered by a 2.9-liter Euro 4-compliant CRDi engine that provides better fuel efficiency, reliability, and cleaner emissions. It is designed for enhanced stability and power-to-weight ratio, boasting a 3,415-millimeter wheelbase.

The Class 2 vehicle also features roof-mounted air conditioning, AFCS, Wi-Fi, GPS tracking, CCTV cameras, 7-inch monitor, and speed limiter. It can accommodate 22 seated passengers + 1 driver as well as 8 to 10 standing commuters.

This Roll off Ceremony came on the heels of HARI and DMMWI formalizing their partnership by inking a Memorandum of Agreement. DMMWI will assemble Class 2 Modern Jeepneys for local transport cooperatives as part of the PUV Modernization Program.

Hino's Modern Jeepneys Complies with DOTr Standards

Hino Motors Philippines (HMP), an active participant in the government’s Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Modernization Program, was granted by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) the Certificate of Compliance (CoC) for its Hino Eco Class PUV units for Class 2 and Class 3 variants.

The Philippine National Standards (PNS) evaluated PUV units of manufacturers who complied to its body dimension measurement requirement required by the local government for the modernized jeepneys which are upgraded in terms of innovation, comfort and security.

“Hino has been part of the PUV Modernization Program since its planning stages and we will continue to actively support the initiative until it is fully realized. As we are one with the government’s aim of creating a safer, more comfortable public transport system for Filipinos, Hino will not only be supplying PUV units to its partners and stakeholders but will also be assisting them through the entire transition from individual operators to organizational cooperative systems, even helping them with bank loan applications and aftersales training and fleet maintenance support,” HMP Chairman Vicente T. Mills Jr. shares.

Drawing from years of experience being the exclusive distributor of Hino trucks and buses in the country and the only local one-stop shop offering trucks and buses and services from engine to body to spare parts nationwide, HMP is confident the Class II and III Hino modern jeepneys will elevate the driving and commuting experience of every Filipino driver and passenger. Hino has turned over close to 400 modern PUV units to various transport cooperatives in Manila, Quezon City, Quezon province, and the like.

These Hino modern jeepneys are Euro 4-compliant and air-conditioned. With side-facing seats similar to the layout of traditional jeepneys, these modern units can accommodate a total of 26 passengers with 19 seated and 7 standing. These modernized jeepneys are compliant with all the technical requirements set by the Bureau of Philippine Standards and feature a speed limiter, GPS, in-vehicle CCTV, electronic Beep card system and a dashboard-mounted camera to guarantee a safer and more convenient ride.

“Hino’s international reputation of creating vehicles of high quality and great value is the same foundation on which our modern PUV models are built on. We are positive that with our vehicles and our commitment to deliver Total Support, we will be able to contribute to creating a modern, safer and more sustainable transportation system in the Philippines,” HMP President Mitsuharu Tabata says.

HMP is continuously forging partnerships with more transport cooperatives in line with its promise of providing a 360-degree support package to every driver, fleet owner, cooperative member and passenger.

Anticipating rising demand for modern PUVs to increase in light of the modernization program, the company is boosting its manufacturing capability for modern jeepneys.

DOTr Issues Certificate of Compliance to Foton's F-Jeepney

The Department of Transportation has granted Foton Motor Philippines, Inc. (FMPI) the Certificate of Compliance for the commercial vehicle brand’s entry to PUV Modernization Program: the F-Jeepney.

As per Philippine National Standards (PNS) 2126:2017, the Class 2 FOTON F-Jeepney F24 variant has passed the requirements with the impacting upgrades imposed for innovated comfort and security for its passengers.

In order to sustain safety, comfort, and environmental soundness, the F-Jeepney was designed with features in compliance with the national standards and international vehicle safety conventions through the addition of speed limiters, CCTV camera, GPS tracker, and dashboard camera.

Compared to the average jeepney, the F-Jeepney is equipped with stainless fixed bench type seats that can hold a capacity up to 24 passengers, 16 seating and 8 standing. The F-Jeepney is more spacious, providing maximized room for cargo and legroom. It has comparatively wider passenger doors, making ingress and egress a whole lot easier.

In terms of comfort and convenience, the F-Jeepney boasts of its fully air-conditioned interiors, comfortable seats, and tap card-based fare collection system. LED monitor and Wi-Fi connectivity are also activated for entertainment during commute.

Ensuring optimal power and performance, the F-Jeepney carries the world-renowned ISF 2.8-liter CRDi 4-cylinder engine paired to a 5-speed manual. This workhorse generates 116 horsepower at 3,200 rpm, and 260 Nm of torque from 1,300 to 3,200 rpm. The engine belongs to Foton’s Blue Energy Euro 4 line-up designed for cleaner, more powerful mobility.

Since 2018, FMPI has been actively showcasing the F-Jeepney in nationwide caravans, DOTr and LTO facilitated motor shows.  Last September, FMPI showcased the two latest variants of the F-Jeepney: F29 and F24, with their names both derived on the vehicle seating capacity at FOTON’s Big AtTRUCKtion.

The Foton F-Jeepney is now readily available nationwide through the brand’s growing network of dealers nationwide.

Hyundai's Modern PUVs Met with DOTr Approval

Just a few days after reiterating support for the government’s PUV modernization efforts at theRoads & Traffic Expo, Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI) President and CEO Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo announced that Hyundai’s Modern Jeepney Class 1 and 2 are officially ready to serve the public after receiving Certificates of Compliance (COC) from the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

The Hyundai H-100 Class 1 Modern Jeepney, displayed at the Roads & Traffic Expo which was held at the SMX Convention Center, has also been showcased at several motor shows and PUJ caravans nationwide over the past year.

This is truly a fusion of cutting-edge Korean technology and the Filipino’s legendary ingenuity.
         
The Hyundai H-100 Class 1, a fresh take on the iconic “King of the Road,” is proudly people-centric, fuel efficient, and innovative, received its COC after undergoing dimensional testing by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

The long wheelbase is engineered to comfortably seat 12 passengers and the driver. Loading cargo puts less stress on the vehicle, translating to increased fuel economy as well as a steadier drive. Powered by a 2.5-liter CRDi diesel engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, the Hyundai Modern Jeepney Class 1 is packed with enough power (maximum output of 130 horsepower) and torque (255 Nm at 1,500 rpm) to efficiently move people and cargo on a daily basis. The engine also complies with international Euro 4 emissions standards.

Keeping to its promise of smart mobility, Hyundai is offering the H-100 Class 1 Modern Jeepney with features such as CCTV, digital signboard, optional Wi-Fi router, and two automated fare collection systems (AFCS) for convenient payment.

Also receiving its COC and being judged roadworthy is Hyundai’s Class 2 HD50S Modern Jeepney.

The Class 2 Modern Jeepney is built on Hyundai’s HD50S platform and is powered by a 2.9-liter Euro 4-compliant CRDi engine for better fuel efficiency, reliability, and cleaner emissions. Like its little brother, it is designed for enhanced stability and power-to-weight ratio, boasting a 3,415-millimeter wheelbase. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.

The Class 2 Jeepney also features roof-mounted air conditioning, AFCS, Wi-Fi, GPS tracking, CCTV cameras, 7-inch monitor, and speed limiter.

Both Class 1 and Class 2 Modern Jeepneys enjoy Hyundai’s award-winning aftersales support offered by Hyundai’s 14 commercial vehicle dealerships across the country.

“Hyundai innovation does not stop adapting to the call of the times,” Ms. Agudo stressed. “We are not only in the business of cars—we’re in the business of mobility. More than just delivering innovative products, we continue to rethink our business model, connect with people and institutions, and are open to new perspectives and new ways of thinking and doing things.”

Hyundai's Modern Jeepney Class 1 is the Most Affordable One Yet

The most complaint with the government’s PUV Modernization program is how unaffordable it is to some cooperatives. Now that Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI) is entering the game, the Korean carmaker is bringing forth an offering that’s much more affordable yet remains people-centric, fuel-efficient, and innovative.

Based off the H-100, the Hyundai Modern Jeepney Class 1 is a collaboration between HARI and Hyundai Motor Company in Korea. It can accommodate 12 passengers (plus 1 driver) thanks to a long wheelbase.

Powered by a 2.5-liter CRDi diesel engine, the Hyundai Modern Jeepney Class 1 has 130 horsepower and 255 Nm of torque. It’s also mated to a 6-speed manual providing superb fuel economy.

Staying true to its promise of smart mobility, the Hyundai Modern Jeepney Class 1 is also engineered to have a load-sensing proportional valve (LSPV) control, which provides optimal braking stability as fluid pressure is controlled according to the loading ratio.

The Hyundai Modern Jeepney Class 1 can also be fitted with optional features such as a modern digital signboard that provides better visibility for potential passengers, CCTV monitor, surveillance cameras and reverse cameras that enhance both the passengers’ and driver’s safety and security when out on the road, optional WiFi router for better connectivity, and two (2) AFCS systems for easy payment and collection of the passengers’ fare.

The Hyundai Modern Jeepney Class 1 retails for P 1,298,000 for the non-AC version and P 1,380,000 for the dual AC version.