Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino

TWO of the country’s leading international bus, truck, auto parts and accessories exhibitors—Philbus & Truck 2017 and Philauto 2017 recently staged a successful convention showcasing the latest models of transporters and aftermarket components. Africa Truck Parts

During its fourth annual installment, over 150 companies from China, Thailand, Malaysia, Taiwan and Singapore, along with major transport manufacturers, showcased their latest offerings in the market.

Southeast Asian trade show organizer AMG Tarsus Events Group established the event focusing on key emerging markets. Headed by its Regional Vice President Richard Yew, his message emphasized on the event’s goal. “Philauto 2017 is a truly international expo, with as many as 70 percent of its exhibitors hailing from overseas, composed of veterans and newcomers alike to the Philippines’s automotive market.  We bring this event to the Philippines to support the development of the industry by introducing new products, technology and innovations. It is also our hope that this event will be a springboard to new business and investment opportunities,” he explained.

This business-to-business trade show was designed for auto part and accessory distributors/dealers, garage/service centers, fleet owners and wheel/tire/battery retailers who seek the latest products, technologies and innovations. It provides the perfect opportunity for meeting with various industry experts to improve efficiency, productivity and quality, as well as to source for supplies directly from manufacturers.

The three-day event was held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City where hundreds of visitors from the targeted market and industry converged to witness the outstanding displays of equipment and transports.

IN a separate hall, numerous transport manufacturers put on a great show by parading its latest models to the public. One of the notable presentations was the lone European manufacturer MAN. On display were two of its TGS series—the 26.360 6×4 BLS and 21.360 4×2 BLS. These two massive tractor heads were presented in a unique artistic shade dubbed “MAN Tattoo Truck”. With the effects of spray-painted abstract design, it became an instant crowd drawer. Both are powered by 10.5 liter, MAN six-cylinder, in-line D2066LF07 turbodiesel engine generating 360 horsepower and 1,800 N-m of maximum torque between 1,000 rpm  and 1,400 rpm. Both are mated to a ZF 12 AS Tipmatic gearbox (ZF 16 S Manual is exclusive to the 26.360 variant).

Also present was the country’s leading truck provider Isuzu Philippines with its tandem of CXY and EXR heavy-duty trucks. The EXR tractor head clads in a vibrant yellow color while the CXY dump truck was neat and mean in its bright white shade. Both variants are powered by Isuzu’s 14-liter 6WF1-TCC turbodiesel motor generating 390 horsepower and 1,863 N-m of maximum torque at 1,100 rpm. The massive engine is mated to a seven-speed MJT7S manual transmission with an option to upgrade to 16-speed with inhibitor MJX16P gearbox.

Another major player, HINO Philippines, displayed its 700 series SS2P tractor head and XZU7 10L minibus both in fresh and modern exterior styling. The heavy-duty truck offers a 6×4 drive system being propelled by a HINO P11C-UR six-cylinder, in-line, turbodiesel motor generating 380 horsepower and 1,600 N-m of maximum torque between 1,200 rmp and 1,500 rpm. It is mated to a 16-speed ZF 16S1650 manual gearbox. The minibus, on the other hand, is powered by 4-liter N04C-VA four-cylinder, direct inject with electronic-controlled common rail generating 136 horsepower and 392 N-m of maximum torque mated to a five-speed manual transmission. Its air-conditioned cabin can accommodate 26 passengers.

Other exhibitors present were Hyundai Philippines with their complete light-duty trucks, minibus and large van line up. Chinese manufacturer Yutong was also there with its state-of-the-art buses highlighting elegant interior and comfy seats. Moreover, two other Chinese truck makers, Howo Sinotruk and Sitrak brands displayed its own versions of heavy-duty tractor heads.

Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

SHELL Mamplasan mobility site in South Luzon Expressway, Biñan, Laguna, will be powered by renewable energy from Shell Energy Philippines (SEPH). Shell Mamplasan is the second Shell mobility site powered by renewable energy from SEPH following the successful transition of Shell North Luzon Tollway 1 (NLT1) in Balagtas, Bulacan.

HERE is Jade B. Sison again, commandeering my space—gladly.

HYUNDAI Motor Philippines, Inc. (HMPH) has entered the compact MPV arena and expanded its lineup by bringing in the new Stargazer. According to HMPH, the brand is putting forward a new era in the local MPV segment through futuristic styling, advanced driver assistance technologies, and premium space and comfort. The company also claims that this new seven-seater model aims at Filipino families looking for a vehicle that can meet their daily mobility needs, modern lifestyle, and preference.

Sinotruk Howo Spare Parts PRACTICALLY a hermit I was from March 2020 until recently—blame it on the pandemic—when I cut loose from prison-like life.   What triggered the escape was my coverage of the Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) Vios Cup November 18 to 19 at the Clark International Speedway in Pampanga.