Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) will highlight its locally manufactured Tamaraw public transport platform and expanding electrified vehicle lineup at two automotive exhibitions from October 22 to 24 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, reflecting its dual focus on commercial mobility and vehicle electrification.
At the inaugural Philippine International Truck Show (PITS), Toyota will formally introduce the Tamaraw Modern Public Utility Vehicle (MPUV), developed to support the government’s public transport modernization program.
First previewed at Toyota’s Santa Rosa manufacturing plant, the MPUV is intended to address the needs of transport operators, local government units and commuters. Its introduction also demonstrates how a locally manufactured vehicle platform can be adapted for public transport applications.
“The Tamaraw truly is a blank canvas, taking different forms to help people realize their dreams,” TMP President Masando Hashimoto said.
Toyota will also display five Tamaraw conversions: the Freezer Van, GL Dropside, Utility Van, Food Truck and Fire Truck. The variants illustrate the platform’s potential applications across commercial operations and public services.
At the 14th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS), meanwhile, TMP will present its electrified lineup, including the bZ4X and Hilux battery electric vehicles, as well as the Zenix and Corolla Cross hybrid models.
Lexus, Toyota’s luxury brand, will showcase the ES hybrid and RZ battery electric vehicle. TMP will also offer test drives of more than 10 electrified vehicles, giving prospective buyers an opportunity to experience hybrid and fully electric technologies.
TMP Marketing Division Senior Vice President Sherwin Chua-Lim said the company’s electrification journey in the Philippines began with the introduction of the Prius in 2009.
Toyota’s participation in both events highlights its approach of offering multiple powertrain technologies rather than relying exclusively on battery electric vehicles. The strategy spans conventional combustion engines, hybrids and fully electric models, alongside locally produced commercial vehicles.
The exhibitions will provide a platform for Toyota to demonstrate these offerings, although broader adoption will depend on factors including affordability, charging infrastructure and the operational requirements of transport operators.
