CAMPI members unveil new vehicle models

MANILA, Philippines - Members of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) unveiled new vehicle models during the 5th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) to take advantage of the growing demand for vehicles in the local market.

After the country achieved record vehicle sales of 212,414 units in 2013,  CAMPI president Rommel Gutierrez said during the opening of the PIMS, the automotive industry is expected to continue its positive sales performance this year amid new offerings.

“We plan to maintain this glorious momentum by doing what we do best  providing the Filipino motorists with only the best automotive products and services that suit their needs and lifestyles,” he said.

Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. president Michinobu Sugata told reporters that as market demand for cars is on the rise, total industry sales are seen to reach over 260,000 units this year.

Among those which showcased new vehicle models is Toyota, with its luxury brand Lexus which displayed the NX compact sports utility vehicle (SUV).

The new vehicle model is seen to support higher sales as the company banks on growing local demand.

Sugata said the firm is upbeat its total sales, including Lexus vehicles, would reach 100,000 units this year.

“We are aiming at 100,000 units this year because expansion of the market is fast,” he said.

Toyota’s three-seater electric concept car Fun Vii, which has a massive light emitting diode (LED) screen exterior, was also unveiled at the show.

Also unveiling new vehicle models at the PIMS is the local unit of Japan’s Mitsubishi Motors Corp., which put on exhibit the new generation Pajero and ASX.

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. also provided a sneak preview of the new Outlander which would be available by the second quarter of next year.

Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI), meanwhile, launched its new hatchback model the Brio, and the more spacious Brio Amaze sedan.

HCPI president and general manager Toshio Kuwahara said the firm aims to achieve combined sales of 300 to 400 units of the Brio and Brio Amaze.

Honda’s new sports car NSX concept, which would be launched globally next year, was also put on display by HCPI.

Kuwahara said the firm is hopeful the NSX concept would be available in the local market.

Automobile Central Enterprise, Inc. (ACEI), the local distributor of Volkswagen vehicles, also launched new vehicles at the PIMS such as the T5 multi van or the modern Kombi, and the new Golf GTI.