Words by Christopher Kho
We really didn't want to make such a fuss about it when Hyundai and Kia recently got caught posting overstated fuel economy (mpg) estimates by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). An investigation revealed that both Korean automakers have been falsely advertising their cars' fuel efficiency ratings to about 3% higher than actual as far back as 2010. Thus, the EPA required them to lower the published estimates and compensate some 900,000 vehicle owners for the added fuel cost they would otherwise saved if the estimates were correct.
Here in the Philippines, we know all too well that manufacturer's published fuel economy estimates are, while true, can only be achieved under “ideal conditions” (i.e. smooth highway driving with no traffic). Still, it gives us a good indication how efficiently each car will run in our daily commute and, more importantly, helps us decide which one to buy. But to keep their integrity and customers’ trust intact, Hyundai Asia Resources Inc. (HARI) - Hyundai's official Philippine distributor - decided to issue an official statement over the issue:
Published in
Industry Update
09 November 2012
Suzuki Auto Zamboanga is Suzuki's 21st dealership in the country
Suzuki Philippines is taking on new territories as they open their newest auto dealership down south... way down south in Zamboanga. Located along Nuñez Extension, Zamboanga City, Suzuki Auto Zamboanga is the Japanese automaker's 3rd dealership in Mindanao, and 21st in the country.
This branch will be a one-stop shop for all Suzuki customers. Aside from the main display showroom, it also features a fully-equipped service center that complies with Suzuki's 3S qualities. That means that this dealership provides (1) units, (2) spare parts, and (3) auto service.
Published in
Industry Update
08 November 2012
Chevrolet Nueva Ecija is now the country's largest Chevy dealership
Located along Maharlika Highway in San Leonardo, the newly-opened Chevrolet Nueva Ecija is now the largest Chevrolet dealership in the country. Its grand opening marks the The Covenant Car Company Inc's (TCCCI), otherwise known as Chevrolet Philippines, 5th new dealership since the company took over the bow-tie-brand in 2009.
Operated by JV Royale Motors Corp., Chevrolet Nueva Ecija features a sprawling 800 sq. meter showroom that can accommodate 15 vehicles and a 720 sq. meter service area with eight work bays. In attendance during the inauguration were TCCCI executives led by President Atty. Alberto Arcilla, JV Royale Motors directors headed by Chairperson and President Jennifer Enano-Bote, local government officials, and representatives from partner financial institutions.
Published in
Industry Update
07 November 2012
American Suzuki to stop selling cars in the US due to bankruptcy
Words by Christopher Kho
Yep, that's right. American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC), which distributes automobiles, motorcycles, ATVs, marine products, and relates parts and accessories in the US, has gone bankrupt. Well, it's actually a bit worse than that. They're now in the process of filing for Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code to protect them for a US$346 million debt. Thus, they have decided to stop selling cars in the US, which includes the Kizashi, SX4, Grand Vitara, and Equator.
ASMC has cited “various factors such as economic conditions including the currency exchange rate, market trends, the models of Suzuki automobiles sold in the U.S. which are primarily small cars, ASMC’s projected sales volume, and the stringent U.S. environmental and safety regulations” as their reasons for pulling the plug. On the contrary, they're redirecting all resources to its motorcycle, ATV, and marine business which still looks to be profitable.
Published in
Industry Update
07 November 2012
Filipinos shine at the 1st Hyundai Service Advisor Championship
Proving that Filipino talent is indeed world-class, two Service Advisors (SA) from Hyundai Asia Resources Inc. (HARI) - the official distributor of Hyundai in the country - recently took top honors at the 1st Hyundai Service Advisor Championship held in Seoul, South Korea. Eduard de Guzman landed among the Top 10 finalists and earned the Outstanding Skills Award, while Rommel Agpoon stood out from among 62 participants from 44 countries to garner the Recognized Skills Awards.
Published in
Industry Update
Words by Christopher Kho
Not to be outdone by the French, the Brits are making their third wave into the country. MINI has garnered itself a loyal following, having kept its British roots; but they're now technically German after BMW bought the brand in the mid-90's. Jaguar is successful in prowling our streets, consistently turning heads and demanding attention. So who’s next to come for a stay? Back in 2011, we've heard rumors that PGA Automobile Inc., the same people behind Audi, Porsche, and most recently, Lamborghini, are in talks to bring a “winged brand” into the Philippines. At first, we guessed Aston Martin, but we now finally have confirmation that it is indeed luxury automaker Bentley.
Published in
Industry Update
Ford Philippines is aggressively expanding their dealer network by 50%; bringing the total number to 35 by mid-2013. The recently-opened Ford Cainta is not only the first of the 12, but is also the blue oval brand's first local dealership to be built according to Ford's global design standard called “Brand@Retail II.”
The new dealership architecture aims to improve the Ford ownership experience and ensure a long-term relationship with the brand. It does this by translating Ford's pillars of Quality, Green, Safe, and Smart into the sales and service showroom's physical space.
Published in
Industry Update
25 October 2012
Hyundai unveils 2nd HARI EcoVan as a classroom-on-wheels
In partnership with the HARIBON Foundation, HARI Foundation Inc. (HFI) - the social responsibility arm of Hyundai Asia Resources Inc. (HARI) - unveiled last September the 2nd HARI EcoVan at Hyundai's headquarters in Makati.
Based on a Hyundai H100, the HARI EcoVan is the country's first-ever fully-customized classroom-on-wheels to promote biodiversity. Just like the 1st EcoVan which was displayed at the Hyundai Run for a Cause last May, the 2nd EcoVan was customized by HFI in partnership with Centro Manufacturing Corporation to feature a cargo deck configured into a small classroom. It comes complete with a built-in library, audio-visual system for film showing and AVP, interactive games, an art booth for workshops and storytelling, and a display of HARIBON merchandise and materials.
Published in
Industry Update
