HMPH hands over Staria units to DOST-STII

MANILA: Hyundai Motor Philippines (HMPH) revealed that it has given the Department of Science and Technology - Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII) three Staria Commuter units.

“We are glad to have been given the opportunity to contribute towards the causes of STARBOOKS and DOSTv. Their missions closely resonate with ours. As we too constantly find ways on becoming more present in the lives of our customers and communities which we are a part of. Rest assured that our Hyundai Staria shall be a reliable steed on your journeys,” said HMPH President Dong Wook Lee.

According to the local arm of the South Korean car brand, the said Staria vehicles will be utilized particularly by the agency’s pioneering project — the Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated KioskS (STARBOOKS) and its award-winning broadcast platform, DOSTv: Science for the People.

“We, at DOST acknowledge Hyundai not just as a provider of mobility solutions but also as a global technology company. There is a shared desire to delve into broader collaboration avenues that can positively impact the Filipino population. DOST is keen on exploring additional areas where the partnership can yield further benefits. The intention is to forge a multifaceted collaboration that extends beyond mobility solutions, aiming for a comprehensive partnership that aligns with the evolving needs and aspirations of Filipino society,” DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. noted.

The commuter version has seating for 11 passengers and is powered by a 2.2-liter engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission. It produces 174 horsepower with 430 Newton-meters of torque and will prove to have more than enough power for the needs of the agency.

Its occupants will enjoy a polyurethane steering wheel, fabric seats, a mono LCD audio head unit, and a 4.2-inch thin-film transistor instrument cluster.

The Hyundai Staria Commuter is priced at P1.850 million.

“I commend the Hyundai Motor team’s Environmental, Social, and Governance initiatives in the Philippines. It is encouraging that the DOST enjoys the strong support of the national government. This awareness aligns well with our government’s focus on science, technology, and innovation. I am confident that such alignment will be a driving force in deepening our countries’ relationship as we approach the anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2024,” noted Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines Sang-hwa Lee.

Photos from Hyundai Motor Philippines and Juan Paulo Papa

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