Toyota PH launches app-based shuttles for PGH medical frontliners

Updated Oct 14, 2020 | Same topic: COVID-19 Updates

These shuttles aren’t your run-of-the-mill vans because these are sanitized and are equipped with air purifiers.

Like most countries, the Philippines has grappled with the numerous difficulties brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, governments down to the local units, private sector entities, and even private individuals have stepped out to lend their expertise and energy to combat this unseen threat.

Some of these real-life heroes are of course the frontline medical workers and their support staff; people who without fear, tirelessly face the dangers of this pandemic every day.

TMP Further aids frontliners

To further aid these frontliners, one of the Philippine’s largest car companies, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is also lending its support to the Department of Transportation’s “Free Ride for Health Workers Program.”

This time, this form of aid is given in collaboration with the Toyota Mobility Foundation, an independent non-profit organization, which provides mobility for all, as well as providing sanitized, and just-in-time transportation service for frontline medical personnel and other frontline staff working at the Philippine General Hospital.

A picture of the TMP/TMF shuttles

These vans are your typical Hiaces as these are equipped with air filters and special seats

This service will be provided free-of-charge, with up to ten thoroughly sanitized shuttles to run around the clock, which are designed to cater to the different shifts of the said frontline personnel.

This service is also supported by the “Just-in-Time” booking app which will allow workers to indicate pick-up times and locations that are closer to their homes.

>>> Related: Toyota boosts after-sales service with new MyToyota PH online tool

Not just any transport Shuttle

Now these shuttles that TMP is lending for this program are not your run-of-the-mill vans. These are all equipped with disposable seat covers that can be replaced occasionally, as well as air purifiers.

The drivers, as well as the cleaning crew, are also directed to wear personal protective equipment and social distancing will be maintained inside these vehicles at all times.

The said shuttle service will start from mid-May and will operate for three months. If necessary, the service can be extended further.

A picture of one of TMP/TMF's shuttles for medical front liners

These are shuttles are already in operation. Here's one parked in front of PGH

>>> Related: Expect social distancing measures at Toyota PH dealers after ECQ

Separately, TMP has already allocated more than 49 vehicles to various local government units, government hospitals, volunteer groups, and other essential workers.

TMP has also donated PPEs to a local hospital, as well as relief packages to several families in certain communities.

For more uplifting news in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, keep reading here on Philkotse.com. Stay safe and stay sanitized.

Know more about Toyota Hiace 2024

Toyota Hiace

The Toyota Hiace 2024 is a light commercial vehicle that is a familiar sight on Philippine roads. Aside from being used as a spacious private transport for households with large families, it is also typically employed for business in delivering cargo and as a fleet transport. Toyota Hiace Prices in the Philippines range between PHP 1,851,000 and PHP 2,521,000 from a base 15-seater Commuter Deluxe variant to the GL Grandia Tourer. A single 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine is on offer, partnered with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.gau

A Hiace car features a body measuring 5,265mm long, 1,950mm wide, and 1,990mm high on most variants, with a wheelbase of 3,210mm. Dimensions differ on the range-topping Super Grandia Elite which sits 650mm longer and 290mm higher, and has a wheelbase of 3,860mm. Monthly installments start at Php 19,875 for the Commuter Deluxe, with a 60-month contract on a 50 percent downpayment. Among its rivals are the Nissan Urvan, Foton View Traveller, Hyundai Grand Starex, Hyundai H350, and Ford Transit.  

 

Toyota HiAce Launch

The global launch of the sixth generation Toyota Hiace was held in the Philippines last February 18, 2019. The launch introduced the Hiace in a new shape. It replaced the older generation’s thin and long rectangular profile. It was replaced with a broader look and a longer nose.

The Toyota Hiace has gone through a lengthy period of five generations. The latest generation arrived in the Philippines with a spacious interior and all new features. Aside from the contemporary design, the Toyota HiAce uses an efficient and powerful engine. It makes the vehicle a highly suitable car for commuting people without worrying about refueling again and again.

The Toyota HiAce is available in four colors – Dark Grey MetallicWhite PearlLuxury Pearl Toning, and Black.

Toyota HiAce Exterior

All the variants of the Toyota HiAce have the same exterior design. There is a slight difference in the front bumpers, which can either be black or keyed and with the grille. The grille also depends on the variant, which can be silver or chrome. The Commuter Deluxe and GL Grandia have halogen headlights with bi-beam and multi-reflector features and integrated turn lamps, which come as a standard on both variants. LED daytime running lights are exclusively available for GL Grandia Tourer AT variant only. The GL Grandia variant has fog lamps that come as standard. This feature is lacking in the Commuter Deluxe trim-level.

The rear part of the vehicle comes with larger headlights and lengthier bumper running to both sides' rear wells at the bottom end.

Toyota Hiace Philippine angular front

All the variants of the Toyota HiAce have the same exterior design

Toyota HiAce Interior

The cabin of the Toyota HiAce also depends on the variant. The Commuter Deluxe features a black-themed cabin while the Grandia variants come with a beige theme interior. The Toyota HiAce can be had with either vinyl or fabric seats. The seating configuration also depends on the variant, which can either be 12, 14, or 15. This allows users the flexibility to choose the variant as per the requirement.

A standard analog gauge comes as standard on all variants, but the GL Grandia Tourer gets an advantage with TFT multi-information display measuring 4.2 inches. The center console is completely revamped with new HVAC controls.

Toyota Hiace Philippines cabin

The Toyota HiAce can be had with either vinyl or fabric seats

Technology & Safety Features

The GL Grandia variant is equipped with a display audio system with DVD, CD, MP3, USB, FLAC with AUX, Bluetooth, and smart mirroring function. The mirroring technology originated from Toyota's proprietary T-link system that can mirror Android and Apple devices. The infotainment system is also equipped with K2 technology. A six-speaker system delivers the audio of the GL Grandia variants.

The infotainment of the Commuter Deluxe variant is handled by the 2-DIN head unit along with tuner, CD, Aux, MP3, Bluetooth, and USB capabilities. The audio is sent via a four-speaker system.

Toyota Hiace Philippines dashboard area

The GL Grandia variant is equipped with a display audio system with DVD, CD, MP3, USB, FLAC with AUX, Bluetooth, and smart mirroring function

The Toyota HiAce comes with various standard safety features for a safe ride. It includes dual front airbags and ABS. The Commuter Deluxe is equipped with an extra center airbag for the center passenger. Vehicle stability control, brake assist, hill-start assist, and rear parking sensors are available in GL Grandia and GL Grandia Tourer. The backup camera comes as a standard in the Tourer as well.

Platform & Chassis

The Toyota HiAce is a 4-door van with a front-engine rear-wheel-drive layout. It sits on the Toyota New Global Architecture platform. The McPherson struts handle the front suspension while a new rigid, leaf spring combination handles the rear setup. 

Ventilated discs deliver the stopping power for the front brakes. The rear brakes vary depending on the variant, which can either be drum brakes or disc brakes.

The fuel consumption of the Toyota HiAce also depends on the variant and fuel type. In terms of dimension, the Toyota HiAce has a length of 5,300 mm, a width of 1,970 mm and a wheelbase of 3,210 mm. The car's ground clearance is 175 mm.

>>> Toyota Hiace for sale in the Philippines at the best prices

Engine & Drivetrain

The current model is doing away with the old 3.0L engine. The new model of the Toyota HiAce is now powered by the 2.8L 1GD-FTV diesel engine. It is the same engine found in the Innova, Fortuner, and Hilux. The engine’s output varies depending on the variant. The Commuter Deluxe trim-level produces pumps out 176 horsepower and 420 Newton-meter.

The GL Grandia variant has an output of 176 hp and 450 Nm of torque. The power output of the GL Grandia Tourer gets a maximum output of 163 hp and 420 Nm of torque. It comes with either a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission option.

Toyota Hiace Philippines engine

The current model is doing away the old 3.0L engine

Toyota HiAce Colors

  • The Toyota Hiace Cargo is available in White 1.
  • The Toyota Hiace GL Grandia is available in Luxury Pearl Toning, Silver Mica Metallic, and Black Mica.
  • The Toyota Hiace GL Grandia Tourer is available in Luxury Pearl Toning, Silver Mica Metallic, and Beige Metallic.
  • The Toyota Hiace Commuter Deluxe is available in Silver Mica Metallic and White 1.

The Toyota Hiace is offered in a wide array of configurations which is more than its rivals such as the Foton View Traveller and Nissan Urvan.

Toyota HiAce Pros & Cons

Pros  Cons
  • Sourced from Japan

  • Reliable workhorse and people hauler

  • Engine delivers good power

 
  • It doesn't offer spirited driving

  • Rear passengers can feel uncomfortable on rough roads

  • The Hiace Cargo looks too straightforward

Toyota HiAce Q&A

1. What are the Dimensions of Toyota Hiace 2024?

Dimensions for the Toyota Hiace 2024 include 5,265mm long, 1,950mm wide, and 1,990mm high on most variants, with a wheelbase of 3,210mm

2. How much is Toyota Hiace Philippines?

2024 Toyota Hiace price is from 1,189,000 PHP to 2,536,000 PHP.

3. How many seats is the Hiace 2024 Commuter Deluxe?

There are 15 seats.

4. Is Hiace Philippines available in Automatic Transmission?

No, it's not true. Toyota Hiace 2024 comes with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

5. Is the Toyota Hiace 2024 a van?

Yes, it is. The body type of Hiace 2024 is a van.

 

₱ 1,724,000 - ₱ 2,439,000

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Cesar G.B. Miguel

Cesar G.B. Miguel

Author

Cesar Guiderone B. Miguel was born and raised in Iligan City, Lanao Del Norte. He graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor of Arts in English degree from Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology. He previously worked as a freelance writer for various websites, as a member of the Iligan City Disaster Risk Reduction Management's training staff, and as a medical sales representative.

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