Motoring Today Column

Jun 03, 2020

These are anxious times. The next week and a half is crucial. By the time this is being read, Metro Manila will be on the third day of being under General Community Quarantine (GCQ).

By now we should have some indication if the community and the economy can resurrect from nearly three months of companies and shops being shut down to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus.

By the time GCQ is imposed, it is hoped that businesses, shops, and trades allowed to resume operations are implementing the guidelines and other protocols mandated or recommended by health authorities to restrict if not stop the spread of the coronavirus.

With more people finally allowed out of homes to hopefully return to work and livelihoods, mass transportation is crucial.

Transport authorities have before the start of GCQ disseminated guidelines and protocols for the private and public transport allowed under this next phase towards the return to normalcy, at least what should be normal until a vaccine or effective treatment is found to combat Covid-19.

The list of allowed transport has been all over social and traditional media generating the usual anxious, snide, or constructive comments. Sadly more of anxious than constructive.

And while many feared chaos and confusion, others prayed for common sense, compliance, courtesy and discipline to prevail as authorities move to retart the economy.

The more practical and rational expect chaos on the first couple of GCQ days but express optimism that people will learn to live with and adapt to the new normal while remaining careful to protect self and others against contagion.

During his presentation at a Cabinet meeting presided by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte which was broadcast to the public, Department of Transportation Secretary Art Tugade said: "While the mandate of the Department of Transportation is to provide transportation, mobility and convenience among the population. We are vested with the responsibility that we must help in preventing the spread of covid."

The approach of DOTr is partial, gradual and calculated, and more importantly by phases.

Many are hoping that the phasing of reintroducing various modes of mass transport in Metro Manila and other areas has been calculated to coincide and meet the demands of the phased reopening of sectors of the economy.

But the success of DOTr's initiatives will in the end be determined by the public adapting to and accepting the new norms, modes and health safety protocols for private and public transport.

Speaking of private transport, local auto assemblers, distributors and distributorships are quickly adapting their operations to new norms forced upon it by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Not only in how they launch new vehicles to media and the public on-line, or how dealerships impose social distancing protocols at showrooms and service centers, or in promos developed to attract patrons, but also in what features of new vehicles to emphasize in selling them.

Geely Azkarra

Sojitz G Auto Philippines (SGAP) publicly launched the all-new Geely Azkarra through Facebook and Youtube. Days before that SGAP gave media a preview of its latest offering in the local market through an on-line presentation.

The Geely Azkarra is a compact SUV that uses what the company calls mild hybrid technology.

"Geely's next generation compact SUV is a 48V Electric Motor Synergy (EMS) model, powered by a 1.5-liter turbo-charged gasoline engine complemented by a 48V belt-starter generator (BSG), a 48V-12 DCDC converter, 48V lithium-ion battery module, and battery management system (BMS)," SGAP said in a press statement.

SGAP believes the local market is ready for a very affordable compact SUV that features hybrid engine technology as well as luxury brand level trim and comfort and convenience features.

SGAP President and CEO Mikihisa Takayama said, "Right now, we see that the auto industry is gearing towards hybrid and electric vehicle technology as it becomes increasingly popular."

And interestingly enough, among features Geely highlighted at its launch is the CN95 cabin filters designed to effectively filter out dust, harmful gases, particulate matter (PM) 2.5 particles, droplets with diameters larger than .74 microns which are often attached to corona viruses.

Geely Auto Group CEO An Conghui said: "The Geely Azkarra, is an affordable luxury SUV. With its technological power, refined interior, healthy space, and safety features, the Geely Azkarra will bring a more enjoyable experience to your high-quality life."

Suzuki Promos

Auto distributors are also coming out with promos that they say will help the buyers overcome the challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.

In a press release, Suzuki Philippines said: "As we begin to take steps to rebuild and bounce back from setbacks caused by the recent pandemic, Suzuki Philippines (SPH), the pioneer compact car distributor in the country, is back with offers that will open doors for more opportunities.

"With exciting and reasonable promos, Suzuki offers businesses both big and small and even those who are seeking the right vehicle to accommodate their daily needs such as going to and from work or those longing for a leisure driving experience will now have more options to choose from."

Honda Options

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) also announced that it has come up with options that will make car purchase easier for Filipinos in carefully going back to their routines and equip them with mobility during these trying times.

"We care about everyone's safety and well-being and we are one with the country on this challenging journey against COVID-19. As part of our support to our customers, we are offering deals and promos that would make car purchase easier and lighter, thereby providing them convenience and mobility, as we face the new normal," said Masahiko Nakamura, HCPI president.

The promo campaign from May 23 - June 30, 2020, entitled "One With You on This Journey" covers the City, BR-V, Brio and the CR-V.

Toyota Sanitation

Toyota Motor Philippines will disinfect for free the interiors of cars being serviced at dealerships until June 16.

This is one of the promos being undertaken by Toyota as the country transitions of GCQ.

This 'Welcome Back' promo covers the use of Toyota Bactaklenz, an anti-bacterial treatment proven to eliminate 99.99% of bacteria, molds and fungi inside the vehicle which can cause allergy and other health concerns, it said in a press statement.

Based on medical research and studies, Sage Oil, which is one of its active ingredients, is found to be effective in reducing the spread of common colds and influenza, Toyota added.

Happy Motoring!!!

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