Here are the possible Thaco Auto models for PH

MANILA: Through its partnership with BJ Mercantile Incorporated (BJM), Vietnam-based Thaco Auto has entered the Philippines. So, what is it bringing into the local market? 

For now, BJM has yet to disclose its Thaco Auto portfolio, but we can hazard some guesses by taking a look at the Vietnam-based company’s truck and bus models. 

Trucks

The Thaco model line of trucks, which Thaco Auto manufactures at its Chu Lai Truong Hai Industrial Complex, is called the Linker T2. The aforementioned comes in a variety of sizes, with gross weights ranging from 4,995 kilograms (kg) to 24,000 kg across nine different models. 

In its largest version, the Linker T2-24 sits well within the heavy-duty truck category. Its smallest version, on the other hand, is the Linker T2-5.0, a medium-duty truck with a maximum payload capacity of up to 1,990 kg. 

For engines, the Linker T2 line comes with six different options. The most powerful is a 6.8-liter six-cylinder turbodiesel mill capable of producing up to 241 horsepower (hp) and 1,000 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. 

Most Linker T2 versions get a six-speed transmission, while the larger models get a nine-speed transmission. Depending on the version, it features either manual or automatic shifting. 

Here is a table showcasing the basic mechanical specifications of the Linker T2-24: 

Engine	6.8-liter inline-6 turbodiesel
Drivetrain	Rear-wheel-drive
Transmission	Nine-speed manual
Horsepower	241
Torque	1,000 Nm
Suspension system	Leaf spring with hydraulic shock absorbers
Brakes	Drum brake, pneumatic drive with anti-lock braking system
Gross weight	24,000
Cabin capacity	Three (with bed)

 Additionally, all versions of the Linker T2 were kitted out with several creature comforts. It comes standard with an air conditioning system, a seven-inch infotainment screen, power windows, USB charging ports, and an air-controlled driver’s seat - among other features. 

Bus

For its bus models, Thaco Auto has two main models: the Thaco Cruizer and the Mobihome. The Cruizer comes with regular row seating configurations with capacities ranging from 29 to 47 occupants (including the driver). The Mobihome, meanwhile, is a more premium “sleeper bus” nameplate boasting 22-36 beds. 

The top-spec version of the Thaco Cruizer is the 120 trim, which comes with a 47 or 29 seating configuration. Propelling the model is a 10.5-liter inline-6 turbodiesel engine capable of outputting 428 hp and 2,000 Nm of torque. 

Meanwhile, the top-of-the-line Thaco Mobihome version is the 22-bed S variant. Powering the said bus model is an 11.5-liter inline-6 engine with a maximum output of 394 hp and 2,000 Nm of torque. 

Both bus nameplates get air suspension systems, anti-lock braking, an electronic auxiliary braking system, and a hydraulic steering system equipped with a booster. 

Creature comforts present on the two bus nameplates include, but are not limited to, the following: 

• Restroom
• 10.1-inch infotainment screen (cockpit)
• Type A and Type C charging ports (passenger)
• Wireless charging (cockpit)
• Refrigerator

Specific to the Thaco Mobihome is an Android media display unit for each passenger bed. 

For higher-end versions, the Cruizer and Mobihome come standard with a reverse camera, cruise control, and reverse warning system. Other optional safety gear for the two bus models includes a tire pressure monitor, a fire warning system, and a driver attention monitor. 

Promising Lineup

As mentioned, BJM has yet to announce which of these nameplates will be launched locally.  Regardless, the Vietnamese company's line of trucks and buses looks promising. Particularly notable are the Cruizer and Mobihome's decent array of safety gear. 

For now, however, let's wait for more announcements from BJM as they gear up to formally introduce their selection of Thaco Auto products into the country. 

Also read:

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