Toyota wows President Marcos with hydrogen-powered car, next-gen Tamaraw


In photo (from left) are Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go, TMP Executive Vice President for Manufacturing Yasuhiro Kutsuki, Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady of the Philippines Louise Araneta-Marcos, Toyota Asia Region CEO Masahiko Maeda, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, TMP Vice Chairman Dr. David Go, and TMP First Vice President for Corporate Affairs Josephine Villanueva during the company’s visit at the Malacañan Palace.

MANILA, Philippines – Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) recently showcased its cutting-edge hydrogen technology and Next Generation Tamaraw vehicle to Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Malacañan Palace, underscoring Toyota’s long-term investment in local automotive manufacturing and sustainable mobility solutions.

The presentation highlighted TMP’s strategic PHP 5.5 billion investment in local production, including the new in-house vehicle conversion feature for the Tamaraw, designed to address the evolving needs of various micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the Philippines. TMP aims to transform this multi-purpose vehicle into a staple for the Philippine market, blending utility and adaptability.

TMP introduced a hydrogen-powered concept, the Corolla Cross H2 developed by Toyota GAZOO Racing, to showcase Toyota’s vision for carbon-neutral mobility. This Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Vehicle (HICEV) prototype, featuring hydrogen sourced locally, complements the Philippine government’s Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) and aims to transition the transportation sector to cleaner energy. Additionally, TMP announced plans to donate five Tamaraw units to support the country’s health sector.

Through initiatives like these, TMP reinforces Toyota’s “Beyond Zero” global movement, promoting multi-pathway decarbonization solutions, including hydrogen and various electrified powertrains, for a sustainable future. This corporate effort aligns with Toyota’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions throughout the entire vehicle lifecycle and to exploring innovative mobility solutions.

FAQ:

Q: What did Toyota Motor Philippines present to President Marcos?
A: TMP showcased hydrogen technology with the Corolla Cross H2 and the Next Generation Tamaraw vehicle.

Q: What is the Next Generation Tamaraw?
A: It’s a versatile, locally produced multi-purpose vehicle aimed at supporting MSMEs and individuals in the Philippines.

Q: How does this presentation align with the Philippines’ sustainability goals?
A: TMP’s hydrogen vehicle concept supports the country’s decarbonization goals and aligns with the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act.

Q: What is Toyota’s “Beyond Zero” initiative?
A: It’s Toyota’s commitment to zero-emission mobility through alternative energy solutions like hydrogen and electrified powertrains.

Q: What will TMP’s donation to the government include?
A: TMP plans to donate five converted Tamaraw units as ambulances for the country’s health sector in 2025.