ISUZU Philippines Corp. (IPC) has hinted at introducing a carbon-neutral vehicle at the upcoming 9th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS). The event, organized by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (Campi), will take place from Oct. 24 to 27, 2024, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
During the recent Campi press conference, IPC Executive Vice President Shojiro Sakoda discussed the current state of the Philippine automotive market, highlighting the industry's steady growth post-pandemic while acknowledging challenges such as limited manufacturing support, high taxation, and regulatory constraints. Sakoda emphasized the need for better infrastructure to support the growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in the country.
Despite these challenges, Sakoda expressed optimism about the future of EVs in the Philippines. He mentioned Isuzu's ongoing developments in its electric vehicle lineup, particularly in Japan and Thailand, and noted the growing interest in EVs within the Philippine market. Sakoda said Isuzu is carefully evaluating the best approach to introduce EV models in the Philippines, focusing on ensuring that infrastructure, support systems, and consumer readiness are in place.
Sakoda also hinted at potential new offerings at the 9th PIMS, where IPC plans to showcase its latest innovations. While he did not provide specific details, he encouraged the public to visit the event to see what Isuzu has in store for the future of EVs.
When asked about the possibility of introducing hybrid vehicles as a transitional solution, Sakoda acknowledged the benefits of hybrid technology. He noted that hybrids could serve as a practical bridge toward full electrification by offering improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions while utilizing existing infrastructure. Sakoda emphasized that any move toward hybrid technology would be carefully planned to align with the needs of Filipino consumers, particularly for commercial vehicles like trucks.
As the leading truck brand in the country, IPC's exploration of carbon-neutral vehicle options marks a significant step toward a more sustainable automotive industry. While no specific timeline has been announced, IPC's commitment to innovation and sustainability indicates that important developments are on the horizon.