Here are the PH auto industry highlights of 2023

The Philippine automotive industry has experienced remarkable growth and transformation in recent years, positioning itself as a key player in the Southeast Asian market.

As we look at the automotive landscape in 2023, the Philippine market continues to show steady growth. With a population of over 100 million, the demand for vehicles remains high. 

The market has become increasingly competitive, with both domestic and international brands vying for a piece of the action. While Japanese manufacturers dominate the market share, Korean, American, and Chinese brands have also gained a significant foothold.

Let’s delve into the highlights of the Philippine automotive industry for 2023.

Emerging trends and technologies

With global concerns about climate change and the push towards sustainability, electric vehicles (EV) have become a hot topic in the automotive industry. While still in the early stages in the Philippines, the adoption of EVs is slowly gaining traction. With advancements in battery technology and charging infrastructure, more Filipinos are considering making the switch to greener alternatives.

A lot of EV models were launched in the country this year, including the Kia EV6, the BMW i7, the Jetour Ice Cream EV, the Lexus RZ, the Hyundai Ioniq 6, the Mercedes-Benz EQ lineup, the Hongqi E-HS9 and E-QM5, the Volvo Recharge lineup, the MG4 and Marvel R, the Dongfeng Rich6, the Lotus Eletre, and the BYD Atto3.

Hybrid versions of the Suzuki Ertiga, Range Rover Sport, Chery Tiggo 5X Pro, Honda CR-V, and Porsche Panamera were also introduced this year. Other hybrid vehicles launched were the Toyota Zenix and Yaris Cross, the BMW 735i and XM, the Maserati Grecale, and the Haval H6 and Jolion.

Aside from EV models, another trend that was seen on cars launched this year was in-vehicle technology suites that allow drivers to always be connected and in control through a smartphone app.

The latest iteration of the Nissan Almera, which arrived in the country in July, introduced Nissan Connect with features such as remote engine start and stop, door lock and unlock, automatic collision notification, SOS emergency call button, My Car Finder, and theft alert.

A similar technology was also introduced by the all-new Honda CR-V, which was launched in September. Honda Connect comes with smart features like security alarm, remote diagnostic support, speed alert, geofencing, vehicle dashboard information, remote vehicle control, and Find My Car.

New brands

At this year’s Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), Chinese brand Jetour officially made its entry in the local market with a four-model lineup, which includes the X70 seven-seat crossover, the X70 Plus premium three-row crossover, the Dashing compact crossover, and the Ice Cream EV.

Another Chinese car manufacturer that made its Philippine debut at MIAS was Great Wall Motor, which brought in the Cannon pickup truck, as well as the H6 and Jolion crossovers under the Haval brand.

Renowned Chinese luxury car brand Hongqi also arrived in the country in September, introducing four models: the E-HS9 all-electric sport utility vehicle, the E-QM5 all-electric sedan, and the H9 and H5 internal-combustion-engine-powered sedans.

South Korean automotive brand KG Mobility and Chery-owned brands Omoda and Jaecoo also announced their entry in the Philippine market this year, with their official launches happening in early 2024.

Market analysis

According to the report issued by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Incorporated (CAMPI) and Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) earlier this month, member companies sold a total of 390,654 units from January to November 2023, up by 23.9 percent versus the same period last year.

Commercial vehicles remained the most popular choice among customers, accounting for 74.49 percent of the market. However, passenger cars also played a crucial role, accounting for 25.51 percent of the market.

Toyota Motor Philippines had the largest share among car manufacturers in the first 11 months of 2023, selling 180,480 units. It was followed by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation with 71,833 units sold.

Ford Motor Company Philippines ranked third with 28,586 units sold. Nissan Philippines came in fourth with 24,743 units. Completing the top five was Suzuki Philippines with 16,676 units.

CAMPI is optimistic that this year would see the automotive sector surpass pre-pandemic sales.

Final thoughts

The Philippine automotive industry experienced continued growth and innovation in 2023. With advancements in technology and the emergence of sustainable practices, the industry is well-positioned to meet the evolving demands of consumers and contribute to the country's economic development.

Photos from Hyundai Motor Philippines, Ruben Manahan IV, Hazel Nicole  Carreon, Honda Cars Philippines Incorporated, Roy Robles, and Kia Philippines

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