Zigwheels PH weekly wrap: Aug 25-29

MANILA: This week in motoring, two models have been unveiled while one storied nameplate saw its end. In addition, the local wing of one Chinese carmaker has added two industry vets to its roster while electric vehicle (EV)-concerns are eyed to be addressed at the upcoming Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS). 

Finally, one aftermarket player looks to open a new facility in the south while the leading car brand in the country looks for candidates for its e-sports racing initiative. 

New JCW Mini lineup unveiled 

British United Automobiles Incorporated, an arm of the Autohub Group of Companies and the official distributor of Mini cars in the country, has presented the latest lineup of the Philippine-spec John Cooper Works (JCW) models. 

Included in the roster are the following: 

• Mini 3-door JCW 
• Mini Electric JCW 
• Mini Aceman JCW 
• Mini Convertible JCW 
• Mini Countryman ALL4 JCW 

Per the distributor, the abovementioned models will make their public debut at the Autohub Trackday event next month. 

Read more about the story, here. 

Refreshed Mitsubishi Xpander revealed 

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) has given its best-selling multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) an update. Strategically refreshed, the base Xpander models now look more sophisticated while the rage-topping Xpander Cross now packs a more aggressive look. 

In addition, the standard Mitsubishi Xpander gets useful tech and mechanical updates outside its cosmetic upgrades, making it a more appealing MPV for Filipino car buyers. 

Full story, here. 

In other news, speculations about the Destinator entering the market came up, after the model was being showcased at the company's official Facebook page.

Read more about it, here. 

Nissan ends R35 GT-R production 

Nissan has finally pulled the plug on the legendary R35 GT-R, marking what essentially is the end of an era. 

According to the carmaker, the last nameplate ran for 18 years with the final sample being produced at the Nissan Tochigi Plant in the Karachi District of the Togichi Prefecture. 

Around 48,000 Nissan R35 GT-Rs were produced during the model’s lifespan. 

You can check out the full dispatch, here. 

Relatedly, Nissan has partnered with two watch brands recently. One being with the quartz powerhouse Casio and its notable automatic watchmaking counterpart, Seiko. 

Read the full story, here. 

GWM PH bolsters its roster 

In its bid to strengthen its market presence and potentially wrap up the year strong, Great Wall Motor (GWM) Philippines has added industry veterans Jude Racadio and Vincent Marquez. 

The former will take the role of company sales director while the former enters the company as its deputy director for training and product planning. 

GWM Philippines expressed its belief that its two new members will help the marque achieve its goal of being one of the leading automotive players in the Philippines. 

You can check the story, here. 

EV industry-related topics to be tackled at 13th PEVS 

The 13th PEVS is scheduled to take place sometime in October, and the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines noted that the most pressing topics related to the EV industry will be tackled in the event. 

Participating car brands, for the guidance of our readers, include the following: 

• BYD
• GAC 
• Omoda
• Jaecoo 
• BAIC 
• Lynk & Co. 
• Chery 
• Foton 

More about it, here. 

Caltex to open facility CALAX 

Good news for motorists in the south. Major oil player Caltex announced its plan to open a new service facility along the Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX). 

Per the company, the facility will open next year and is expected to become a vital stop for travelers, logistics operators, and nearby residents. 

Check out the article, here. 

TMP looking for e-racers

Lastly, Toyota Motor Philippines is looking for three candidates to represent the country at the upcoming Toyota GR eSports GT Championship Asia Finals, which will take place in Thailand. 

You can check out the full story, here. 

Also read: 

Ativ to expand Toyota Motor PH lineup 'soon'

Nissan is world’s first carmaker to use cold spray in engine manufacturing

Lexus PH to display LBX, 'omotenashi' at Flat Six Café

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