Toyota to unveil Tamaraw MPUV at truck show, display electrified lineup at EV Summit

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) will unveil its next-generation Tamaraw MPUV to the public at the first Philippine International Truck Show, while displaying its Toyota and Lexus electrified vehicles at the 14th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit.

Both events will take place from 22 to 24 October at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, with vehicle displays and public test drives scheduled throughout the three-day exhibitions.

The Tamaraw MPUV, previously previewed at Toyota’s Santa Rosa manufacturing plant, is a new conversion designed for public transportation.

Toyota said the vehicle was developed with the needs of transport operators, local government units and government offices in mind.

The locally manufactured MPUV expands the applications of the next-generation Tamaraw, which Toyota has developed into a platform for commercial and public-service vehicles.

“The Tamaraw truly is a blank canvas, taking different forms to help people realize their dreams,” said TMP president Masando Hashimoto.

Hashimoto said the MPUV is intended to provide dependable transportation for commuters while supporting operators and their communities.

Alongside the MPUV unveiling, Toyota will exhibit several Tamaraw conversions, including the Freezer Van, GL Dropside, Utility Van, Food Truck and Fire Truck.

Visitors can also test drive the Tamaraw Utility Van and GL Dropside during the truck show.

At the Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit, Toyota will make its debut as an exhibitor with a selection of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs).

The display will feature the Toyota bZ4X and Hilux battery-electric models, together with the Zenix and Corolla Cross hybrids.

Lexus will also participate with the ES hybrid and the RZ battery-electric SUV.

Toyota said more than 10 electrified vehicles will be available for test drives, giving visitors an opportunity to experience different models and powertrains.

The company will also highlight its history of introducing electrified technology in the Philippines, beginning with the local launch of the Toyota Prius in 2009.

TMP Marketing Division senior vice president Sherwin Chua-Lim said many Prius units remain in service, which he cited as evidence of the brand’s vehicle durability.

“We have been pioneering electric vehicle technology in the country since we locally introduced the Toyota Prius back in 2009,” Chua-Lim said.

He added that Toyota’s after-sales network would continue supporting customers who choose hybrid or battery-electric vehicles.

Toyota’s participation in both exhibitions will allow visitors to explore its commercial vehicles alongside its electrified passenger models at the same venu