Gears of commerce: automobiles that drive the industry

Since the early days, vehicles have always been a key pillar of commerce. 

From the galleons that carried silks and spices, locomotives that towed produce and industrial goods, cargo planes that bore pharmaceutical products, to the commercial vehicles (both heavy and light duty) we see today — responsible for delivering various merchandise to reach the far ends of the country — these machines helped us move commodities and people, in both times of war and peace. 

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On that note, it is only fitting to talk about the automobiles that drive the country’s industry this Labor Day, specifically the light commercial vehicles we see on our streets. 

Toyota Tamaraw

First on our list is the returning Toyota Tamaraw, which has earned the love and affection of Filipinos thanks to its ability to serve businesses and families. 

In its latest iteration, it also serves various government agencies like the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, which was donated by the Toyota Motor Philippines Foundation; the Philippine General Hospital, which played an important role in the joint Healthcare Mobility for All (HEAL) Project; and the City Government of Santa Rosa, Laguna, which serves as the city’s health service vehicles. 

Car customization professional Atoy Llave of Atoy Customs also highlighted its potential as a cop car. 

Outside of its patriotic duties, the Toyota Tamaraw can be used as a food truck and even as a parade car for celebrating local festivities.  

Of course, it has its roots in the commercial sector. Just look at this business truck… 

…and daily driver… 

…but what’s more impressive is its potential as a race car. 

For those wanting numbers, the Toyota Tamaraw’s 2.4-liter diesel engine makes 147 horsepower (hp) and 343 Newton-meters (Nm), while the 2.0-liter gasoline mill generates 137 horses and 183 Nm of pulling power. 

Mitsubishi L300 

The Mitsubishi L300 has been a perennial choice for Filipino businessmen who require a capable workhorse. 

Whether for delivering refrigerated perishable goods or transporting personnel from the office to the field, the Mitsubishi L300 is available in multiple body configurations straight from the factory, such as the Cooltech Ref Van and FB body types. 

Its strength comes from a refined 2.2-liter (Euro-4-compliant) engine that generates approximately 97 hp and 200 Nm of torque. 

Allowing it to haul a substantial amount of load are independent wishbone and coil springs at the front and semi-elliptic leaf springs at the rear. Halts and deceleration are handled by ventilated disc brakes at the fore and leading and trailing drum brakes at the back. 

Isuzu Traviz 

Along the same line is the Isuzu Traviz, from the brand hailed as the best truck brand in the country for 26 years. 

Likewise available in various body makes, the Isuzu Traviz offers entrepreneurs a fuel-efficient business partner with a high payload capacity, easy maneuverability, a shorter brake force, and trusted Isuzu reliability. 

Propulsion comes from a 2.5-liter diesel mill with 76 hp and 176 Nm. 

For its suspension, it also uses independent wishbone and coil springs and semi-elliptic leaf springs. Stopping power is facilitated by ventilated disc brakes at the front and leading and trailing drum brakes at the rear. 

Aside from the Isuzu Traviz, the company has a suite of solutions for any type of business. You may check its lineup in the video below: 

And much like the Toyota Tamaraw, it is also the choice of many cities as their service vehicle. 

For example, the City of Talisay in Cebu uses the Isuzu Traviz as barangay-based emergency ressponse vehicles; the Municipality of Lambunao in Iloilo, which will be utilized based on its most urgent needs; and in earlier years, the Second District of Oriental Mindoro; the City Government of Zamboanga; and in Tiaong, Quezon.  

The model has also been used previously as an ambulance at the Laguna Technopark Association Incorporated. 

Suzuki Carry 

For smaller items, the compact car specialist Suzuki has the Carry on offer. 

Available in Dropside, Utility Van, Cargo Van, and Lineman configurations, its roles range anywhere from parcel and mineral water delivery vehicle to ferrying local cable guys to fix electricity poles and paid television service connections, and sometimes barangay patrolmen who look after the safety and welfare of residents in local communities. 

The Suzuki Carry uses a fuel-efficient 1.5-liter engine with 95 horses and 135 Nm. 

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