Isuzu turns over modernized PUV units to Grab in Boracay

ISUZU Philippines Corp. (IPC) recently handed over modernized PUV units to Grab Philippines in Boracay during the island’s re-opening day.  Held at the newly renovated Bolabog terminal, the formal turnover ceremonies was graced by no less than IPC president Hajime Koso together with Almazora Motors Corp. executive vice president Conrad Almazora, Laurence Bahia of Grab Philippines, and representatives of the Boracay Local Transport Group.

These brand new public utility vehicles will join other newly commissioned public transportation in the island to provide better and safer alternatives for the local and tourist commuters. The initial established route is from Bolabog Terminal going to Circumferential road and back.  Piloting with three units of the modernized PUV, Grab Philippines is looking at further expanding the fleet up to 60 units in the future.  This would eventually cover other specific routes in the island.  As for the fare, it should be interesting for the commuters as attractive fare packages are being considered. For now, local and tourist commuters can enjoy a free ride until December of this year.

​Meanwhile, the preliminary three modernized PUV units turned over by IPC were also based on the Isuzu QKR77 platform—the same type of units previously delivered to SETSCO.  The unified body, meantime, was designed and manufactured by Almazora Motors Corp utilizing the Class 2 air-conditioned model with a side-facing seat configuration that could easily seat about 22commuters.  Locally assembled, The Isuzu QKR platform is equipped with a Euro IV-compliant 4JH1-TC Turbodiesel engine designed to deliver excellent fuel economy.  It generates 105 hp and 230 N-m of maximum torque.  Interestingly, telematics and speed limiter will come in standard to aid in fleet management, monitoring and safety.

The PUV features LED TV monitors for real-time information including station details, route, date, time, weather, news, and advertisement, LED electronic signage for route information, fire extinguishers, interior CCTV, dashcam and even back-up cameras.