Maxxis and CST, two global tire makers distributed locally by AP Blue Whale Corporation, have rolled out seven new tire models in the Philippines this August. The brands aim to cover nearly every type of vehicle—from SUVs and pickups to electric cars and scooters—as mobility needs in the country continue to evolve.

At the launch event attended by dealers and motoring media, company executives highlighted how the new lineup responds to both traditional and emerging markets, including the growing demand for electric vehicle (EV) tires.

Ronald L. Ang, Chief Operations Officer of AP Blue Whale Corporation, said the move reflects their commitment to improving safety, comfort, and efficiency on Philippine roads.

For SUVs and Pickups
Maxxis added two models to its RAZR series. The RAZR HT780 focuses on highway use, with a silica compound and optimized tread design for quiet rides, longer tread life, and improved wet and dry braking. Meanwhile, the RAZR AT781 caters to weekend adventurers, offering reinforced durability, anti-chip tread blocks, and better grip on mud, gravel, and wet terrain.

CST also joined the all-terrain segment with the Sahara AT318. This tire features a bold “tiger tooth” shoulder pattern for traction in loose surfaces, plus wide grooves to clear mud, stones, and water. CST says it is durable enough for both daily driving and competitive off-road events.

For EVs
Both brands are tapping into the EV segment. Maxxis introduced the Victra Sport EV, an award-winning model abroad. It uses advanced compounds and sound-absorbing foams to handle the heavier load and instant torque of EVs while extending range and minimizing cabin noise.

CST’s answer is the Saleks E.X1. With technology focused on efficiency, quietness, and durability, it is built to manage heavy battery packs while offering good puncture resistance and water dispersion.

For Scooters
Maxxis launched the Victra S98 CT, designed for city commuting. It uses a high-grip compound and reinforced casing for stability and longer service life.

CST rolled out the Ride Scoop CM-SC01, a sport-touring scooter tire with a V-shaped tread and semi hot-melt compound. Engineered for strong dry grip, quick water drainage, and heat dissipation, it targets riders who want both performance and fuel savings.

AP Blue Whale’s product head Jaybee Atanacio said the goal is not just performance but also driver and rider confidence across all road conditions.

The Philippine motorcycle market continues to rev up, recording another solid performance in the second quarter of 2025. Sales hit 910,923 units from April to June, up 4.8% from the 876,074 units in the same period last year, according to the Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA).

Industry insiders point to the same winning formula: motorcycles remain affordable, fuel-efficient, and perfectly suited for weaving through Metro Manila’s notorious traffic.

These factors, paired with expanding delivery services and the need for personal mobility, have kept demand high.

Breaking down the numbers, the Automatic/Scooter segment is still king of the road, leading sales among all categories—moped, street, business, big bikes, and niche models. This dominance isn’t expected to change anytime soon, especially with financing options making ownership more accessible.

MDPPA, which counts Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, and TVS as members, expects the upward trend to hold through the rest of 2025. The group projects a 5% growth rate for the full year, supported by the country’s steady economic recovery.

The association is also pushing for safer roads through programs like Tropang MAALAM—a campaign that promotes rider education and awareness. For MDPPA, growth in sales should go hand-in-hand with responsible riding.

With more Filipinos embracing motorcycles for daily travel—whether for commuting, work, or leisure—the industry’s engine shows no signs of slowing down.

MANILA | After seven years, Ayala Corporation’s AC Industrials has officially ended its distributorship of Maxus vehicles in the Philippines, closing a chapter that started with the brand’s local launch in 2019. The decision, made jointly with China’s SAIC Motor Corporation Limited, was described as a “strategic step” for both companies to refocus on their core strengths amid shifting market dynamics.

Maxus entered the Philippine market under Ayala with vans like the G10 and V80, later adding the G50 MPV, D60 and D90 SUVs, and the T60 pickup. Some models have since evolved under SAIC’s other brand, MG, such as the G50 morphing into the G50 Plus and the upcoming re-entry of the D90. The T90 pickup is also set for a local debut as the TRQ.

For existing Maxus owners, it’s not the end of the road. Aftersales support will continue, with service bookings available via maxus.ph, and contact channels kept open for customer concerns.

Dana Uson, Head of Strategy at AC Industrials Mobility Group, said the company is proud to have contributed to Maxus’ local growth and reaffirmed its commitment to “innovative and sustainable mobility solutions” in the country. Meanwhile, SAIC’s Frank Wu thanked AC Industrials for laying a “strong foundation” for the brand in the Philippines.

Industry watchers weren’t entirely surprised. SAIC took direct control of MG’s Philippine operations in 2023, hinting that Maxus could eventually follow a similar path. For now, AC Industrials will focus on its other motoring brands, BYD, Kia, and Volkswagen, while SAIC continues to grow MG and possibly, one day, revive Maxus locally.

The announcement is rare in the auto industry, where most distributor shake-ups happen quietly, noticed only through shuttered dealerships and disappearing ads. This time, both parties went public—perhaps signaling a more open and competitive landscape ahead.