Zigwheels PH weekly wrap-up: May 1-2

MANILA: Even as the hot climate of summer enters the country in the first week of May, the automotive industry shows no signs of slowing down. 

So, what are the biggest developments in the automotive industry from May 1-2, 2025? Let’s find out here. 

Upcoming Mercedes-Benz PHEV models

Mercedes-Benz Philippines, under the management of Inchcape Philippines, is gearing up to launch two new plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) in May 2025. 

Specifically, the German marque’s local arm will be bringing in the GLC 350e 4MATIC PHEV and the E-Class E350e PHEV. 

No specs or pricing details were released for the two rides for now, but the brand has touted both as refined rides “designed for a new generation of drivers.” 

For more details about the two PHEV Mercedes-Benz models, read this story.

Other local developments

Honda Cars PH services digitalization

Honda Cars Philippines has digitalized most of the processes employed for its aftersales services. The aforementioned is now done via an electronic check sheet (E-Checklist) integrated into mobile service tablets for in-house service technicians. 

Read the full story here. 

HARI Cab introduction

Hariphil Asia Resources Incorporated has launched the locally assembled HARI Cab. According to the company, it was designed to meet the demands of small businesses, cooperatives, logistics providers, and local government units. 

Pricing for the HARI Cab ranges from P1.797 million-P2.362 million, and it may come in the form of a cab and chassis, shuttle, or aluminum van. 

Click here to learn more about the HARI Cab. 

Isuzu PH 20th Service Skills Olympics

Isuzu Philippines Corporation has given recognition to the participants of its 20th Service Skills Olympics. Awards were provided to employees who competed in the event’s three main categories: Parts Staff, Service Advisor, and Service Technician. 

Read the whole 20th Isuzu Service Skills Olympics story here.

Global news

Aston Martin DBX S

Aston Martin has debuted the DBX S, which provides vast improvements in terms of power for the DBX platform. 

Specifically, it received the same turbocharger technologies from the Valhalla supercar, as well as a wide range of optional carbon fiber body parts for extra weight reduction. 

As a result of its mechanical upgrades, the Aston Martin DBX S now has the following peak power and torque outputs: 

Peak power (in horsepower)	717
Peak torque (in Newton-meters)	900

Read this story to learn more about the all-new Aston Martin DBX S. 

Toyota, Waymo partnership

Toyota has established a partnership with Waymo - a global leader in self-driving cars. 

Through the said collaboration, the Japanese car brand is hoping to improve its Toyota Safety Sense advanced driver-assist systems. The partnership will likewise allow Toyota to develop “next-generation personally owned vehicles.” 

Read the full story here. 

Electrified Isuzu D-Max

Isuzu Motors Limited has started the mass production of the D-Max hybrid. The aforementioned units will be built in Thailand, and their first batch will enter the European markets in the third quarter of 2025. 

Click here to read the full story. 

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