AT THE recent press conference held by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers Association, Inc. (CAMPI) in anticipation of the 9th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) hinted at exciting developments in its electric and hybrid vehicle lineup.
Shojiro Sakoda, Executive Vice President of Isuzu Philippines, acknowledged the challenges and opportunities in the Philippine automotive market, highlighting the industry’s steady growth post-pandemic. However, he also pointed out hurdles such as limited manufacturing support, high taxation, and regulatory constraints. In particular, Sakoda stressed the critical need for adequate infrastructure to support the growing interest in electric vehicles (EVs) in the country.
Despite these challenges, Sakoda expressed optimism about the future of EVs in the Philippines and hinted at potential surprises for PIMS attendees in October, where Isuzu Philippines plans to showcase its latest innovations. While remaining tight-lipped on specifics, Sakoda emphasized the company’s dedication to evaluating the best approach to introduce EV models to the Philippine market. He stressed the importance of ensuring that the infrastructure, support systems, and consumer readiness are in place to provide a seamless customer experience.
When asked about hybrid vehicles as a transitional solution, Sakoda acknowledged their potential strategic advantages in addressing the unique challenges and opportunities in the Philippine market. He stated that Isuzu is actively exploring the possibility of introducing hybrid vehicles, particularly for commercial vehicles like trucks.
Isuzu Philippines’ exploration of carbon-neutral vehicle options underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. As the leading truck brand in the country, their potential foray into the EV and hybrid market signals a significant step towards a more environmentally friendly automotive industry in the Philippines. While a definitive timeline for the introduction of such vehicles remains undisclosed, the company’s ongoing efforts promise exciting developments in the near future.
