Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) recently went to the Malacañang Palace to showcase its upcoming Next Generation Tamaraw and a hydrogen-powered concept vehicle to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. This event underscores TMP’s commitment to bolstering local automotive manufacturing, advancing sustainable mobility solutions, and fostering economic growth.
President Marcos expressed his gratitude for Toyota’s sustained investment in the Philippines, particularly highlighting TMP’s recent PHP 5.5 billion investment in producing the Philippine-made Next Generation Tamaraw, also known regionally as the Toyota Innovative International Multi-Purpose Vehicle (IMV) 0 (Zero). This investment encompasses vehicle production, localization of parts, and the establishment of a new in-house vehicle conversion capability, thereby reinforcing TMP’s role in supporting the viability of the automotive and parts manufacturing industries in the country. The versatile Tamaraw aims to enable “Mobility for All” through its easily convertible design.
During a courtesy call at the Palace, TMP officials displayed prototype conversion units of the Tamaraw, showcasing its adaptability to the needs of Filipinos. Returning as a light commercial vehicle, TMP aims to transform this iconic model into the next ‘national car’ by catering to the specialized conversion needs of various Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and individuals.
In a significant gesture, TMP presented President Marcos with a letter of intent for its planned donation of five Tamaraw units, which will be converted into ambulances and turned over to the government in 2025. These vehicles will support various mobility needs under the “Lab For All” health program spearheaded by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos.
Reinforcing its commitment to global carbon neutrality, TMP introduced its “Beyond Zero” movement to the government. This initiative aligns with the Philippine government’s push for a clean energy transition and supports key national policies related to the transportation sector, including the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) and the Philippine Energy Plan.
As part of its multi-pathway approach to decarbonization, TMP also presented the Corolla Cross H2 Concept, developed by Toyota GAZOO Racing (TGR) in Japan. This Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Vehicle (HICEV) utilizes hydrogen gas sourced from a local producer and is filled through a Hydrogen Refueling Station (HRS) imported from Malaysia.
“For Toyota, we aim to provide the most suitable vehicle technology aligned with the country’s energy strategy. By embracing multi-pathway approaches to energy, Toyota offers a diverse range of powertrains, both available and in development,” said Masahiko Maeda, Chief Executive Officer of Toyota Asia Region.
Acknowledging the Philippines’ rich resources, TMP highlighted the potential of diversifying energy sources to develop related industries and complement the decarbonization goals across various sectors, including transportation. With its extensive range of xEV powertrain technologies, Toyota believes hydrogen can emerge as a leading advanced alternative energy source, with the potential for zero carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
Beyond its commitment to decarbonizing the vehicle life cycle—from raw materials sourcing and manufacturing to distribution and recycling—TMP is also exploring sustainable mobility solutions through xEV user services and leveraging data solutions and connected technologies to enhance travel and logistics efficiency, ultimately resulting in CO2 reduction.
