The number of Toyota Tamaraw vehicles ferrying passengers could soon be a common sight on local roads, as it has secured certification to be used for public transportation. This further expands the Tamaraw’s capabilities as it can now be utilized as more than a utilitarian vehicle that transports goods.
Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) President Masando Hashimoto personally announced that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has officially granted the Toyota Tamaraw the “Modern PUV” certification. As such, it can now be maximized and used for public transportation that could transport passengers.
TMP President Hashimoto shared that the Tamaraw’s “Modern PUV” certification is a major step in having a modern public transport system for the Filipinos.
“Today is a big day for both the Department of Transportation and Toyota Motor Philippines as we take a major step in offering modern mobility options to Filipinos across the country. We’re happy to share that DOTr has officially granted Toyota the “Modern PUV” certification for the Tamaraw,” Hashimoto said.
He added that securing the said certification for the Tamaraw allows Toyota PH to further strengthen its vision of making the Tamaraw a true “national car.” Hashimoto expressed that this development “feels like the beginning of an exciting new chapter.”
“Our sincere thanks to DOTr for [its] trust and unwavering support as we drive Toyota into a new era,” Hashimoto added.
The Toyota Tamaraw Utility Van variant is among the ideal candidates to become a modern PUV. It has two trim options: Long Wheelbase (LWB) or Short Wheelbase (SWB) trims. The Tamaraw LWB can accommodate up to 14 occupants (including the driver), while the Tamaraw SWB can fit up to 12 individuals (including the driver).
One of the power unit options available for the Toyota Tamaraw is a 2.4-liter diesel engine that delivers 148 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, mated to either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, depending on the variant.
Autocar’s Take
The Toyota Tamaraw would be utilized even further as it can now ferry passengers, after it was given a modern PUV certification by the Department of Energy. This is a significant step for Toyota PH, as it can now also market the Tamaraw as a modern PUV that can transport people. It also allows Toyota PH to compete with other car brands in the Philippines that offer modern PUVs for transport mobility. The certification would also fuel Toyota PH to fulfill its initial plan for the Tamaraw, which is to roll it out as a vehicle used for public transportation.
