Automotive
When the Ford Co-Pilot 360 takes over
Have the confidence to drive the Next-Gen Ford Everest Titanium+ all by yourself
Driving alone can be therapeutic. You have the freedom to blast your favorite songs, and decide wherever you want to go. All is well until you realize you have an elephantine 7-seater SUV like the Next-Gen Ford Everest Titanium+, all to yourself.
Driving from Manila to Clark and back was filled with nostalgia; the day turned poignant even if the skies were vibrantly blue.
I still remember how a year ago, I was driving the same vehicle with four more passengers, and a dog. Circumstances weren’t in my favor, since my support system was completely virtual. I was the only one who took the Spartan Race’s North ASEAN series for 2024.
I decided to press on for a two-day endurance race, and I didn’t realize that a weekend drive will give me learnings about myself and my vehicle. For two days, the Ford Co-Pilot 360 technology helped me survive, even if I was extremely fatigued and ill.
Let go for a moment
I set off early Friday to evade the weekend traffic going in and out of the freeway, which meant I skipped breakfast so I’ll be in Clark City by morning.
With only a flask of hot coffee, I decided to stop over to a nearby McDonald’s and have a quick fix of Chicken Sandwich. I didn’t have my best friend on the front passenger seat, so I had to eat my meal on my own while driving across the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX).
Since the Next-Gen Ford Everest Titanium+ I was driving came with an Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering, I turned it on so I can let go of the pedals momentarily. I used my left hand to keep the control on the steering wheel, while I ate the sandwich with my right hand.
Having your hands on the steering wheel activates the Lane Centering feature. This ensures you keep your vehicle centered. It only works when the ACC is turned on, which is a technology that allows you to maintain a set speed and distance from the vehicle in front.
If you want to have full control, it automatically cancels when you press the ACC button or when you step on the brakes.
Cruise fast and safely
A lot of times, we get in a time crunch so we speed up our vehicles. With a 100kph limit on the expressway, I set the Adjustable Speed Limiter to 99kph.
I was still traumatized when we were hailed at the end of the freeway half a year ago for over-speeding up to 127kph. We got a ticket for reckless driving, and it wasn’t a good memory.
This time, I had to make sure I don’t get into any violations, especially since I’m alone and I might just cry if I get another ticket.
During the weekend, I had to drive across Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX). It is the only freeway that has access to the race venue, Montclair Destination Estate. It is an upcoming 216-hectare destination estate by Robinson’s Land Corporation.
RLC Residences, a subsidiary brand under Robinson’s Land Corporation, was one of my sponsors for the back-to-back Spartan Race held in their estate. It was my second time racing in their venue, and the views are always spectacular. It really is worth the drive.
That weekend, I had to take on the Spartan Super, a 10-kilometer endurance with 25 obstacles, for the first day under my team Bring Your Game. The second day, I raced under RLC Residences, completing the Spartan Trail 10K in one hour and two minutes.
Don’t crash and burn
Caffeinating and dining out was my go-to every time I’m in Clark. The food and beverages are just sumptuous and worth the price.
However, for the traffic going in and out of Clark, as well as in Angeles City and the neighboring town of Porac, a driver must bring extra patience.
When I have to switch lanes, the Blind Spot Monitoring System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert helped me to make sure I don’t crash into another vehicle.
Often, rude drivers speed up when you turn on your signal to change lanes. The BLIS helps with changing lanes safely, even if you’re driving fast. Sometimes, you just need to pour in extra patience when other drivers won’t give way. Let’s not add rage to an already cruel world.
Equally disturbing is the disrespect of traffic rules, both for other drivers and pedestrians. I had to deal with the dashboard alerting with pre-collision assist whenever a vehicle suddenly stops to alight their vehicle and drop a passenger.
The Automatic Emergency Braking also takes over when a pedestrian suddenly crosses the street, completely disregarding the vehicles passing through at 60kph.
Thankfully, the Next-Gen Ford Everest Titanium+ came with such features. It also has Dynamic Brake Support, Evasive Steer Assist, Forward Collision Warning, and Post Impact Braking.
I don’t wish for a situation where I have to use all those features. I’d rather have the peace of mind of having it just in case, but I really do hope I don’t ever need to use them.
A tiring moment with one of my tires
After placing 61st out of more than 300 trail runners, I decided to stop by El Kabayo, a western-themed cafe operated by an old friend of mine, located near the Clark Nature Park. I knew I deserved good coffee and brunch after that exhausting race.
I ordered the Gold Rush, a honey-shaken espresso with soy oat milk and honeycomb, as well as Naked Longsilog. Right after, I went to check the Clark Nature Park where some people were camping and frolicking to pass time.
The misfortune happened when I drove past a metal wire that was inconspicuous in the grass. After parking, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) alerted that the left rear wheel is losing pressure. From 32 PSI, it suddenly dropped to 23.
Panicking, I hurriedly left the park and took a 7-minute drive to the nearest gas station. Even for a seasoned Spartan, the Everest Titanium+’s spare tire was too heavy for me to lift.
It took three men to lift and change the tire I had. Unfortunately, even the spare tire has a low pressure. It just meant I have to get my tire fixed as soon as possible.
It was nearly impossible to find a vulcanizing shop open on Sundays, but luck was still in my favor.
Learning to get some help
After having it fixed, I realized later on that there was an Authorized Ford Dealer in Clark Global City.
Due to panic, I completely forgot that Ford Philippines offers a 24-hour Emergency Roadside Assistance program. Most vehicles sold starting January 2020 have free basic plan coverage for the first three years.
The basic plan allows you to get help for minor on-site repairs with a PhP 5,000 limit on their services. This includes changing of tires, battery boosting, and fuel delivery.
They can also do personal assistance in the case of accident, and offers towing services to the nearest Ford dealer.
Hold on, we’re going home
The last stretch of an extremely testing weekend was the drive back to Manila. I was extremely fatigued, both from the race and the switching of the tire.
Over an hour driving in the freeway, I started feeling sleepy. Thankfully, the Driver Alert System monitors the level of your alertness, based on your driving behavior.
The system detected my irregular pattern, which prompted an audible and visual warning in the instrument cluster. Since it asked me to take a break, I took the nearest stopover to take a nap and get good coffee.
Instead of pushing through for two more hours, the 30-minute nap along with the caffeine boost helped energize me.
You’re on your own, kid
Reflecting on what just happened, I realized how my mettle and quick thinking was tested that weekend. It felt desolate, having no one by my side as I powered through countless obstacles — in Spartan race and in life.
It prompted to play “You’re On Your Own, Kid” by Taylor Swift, after having an epiphany that it has been my anthem for nine years now.
I’m on my own. I always have been. But this time around, the Ford Co-Pilot 360 technology and Driver-Assist Features packed in the Next-Gen Ford Everest Titanium+ helped me fly solo. It may be sad, but it was a proud moment for me to overcome everything, all by myself.
It just gave me the confidence that I can handle whatever life throws at me.
For more information, visit the Ford Everest page. To reserve the Next-Gen Ford Everest through www.ford.com.ph or check your nearest Ford dealer.
SEE ALSO:
Creating core memories with the Next-Gen Ford Territory | Tracing roots across Manila with the Next-Gen Ford Territory
My first long drive with the Next-Gen Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4×4
Home away from home: Next-Gen Ford Everest makes long trips cozier
Automotive
Xiaomi debuts SkyNomad Series featuring new Kunlun platform
Intelligent, reconfigurable large-space SUV
Xiaomi EV is ushering in a new era with the launch of the Xiaomi SkyNomad Series in China, the first model built on the new Xiaomi Kunlun Platform.
The new EV is positioned as an intelligent, reconfigurable large-space SUV built around on three core strengths: expansive interior space, completely flat cabin floor, and reconfigurable seating.
It is paired with the Xiaomi Kunlun HyperRange, Xiaomi Armor Scale Battery, and Xiaomi Kunlun Total Safety.
The SkyNomad’s cabin electronics run on a four-in-one domain control model built on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 platform. It features Dual 5G and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity.
The launch unveiled two models: the first is the flagship 7-seater extended-range SUV Xiaomi SkyNomad N90 Max (RMB 299,900) while the other is the 5-seat AWD SUV Xiaomi SkyNomad N70 Max (RMB 259,900).
These EVs have a battery capacity range of 52 to 76kWh. On CLTC, the N70 Max can reach up to 505 kilometers of EV-only range. Dual-motor all-wheel delivers 310kW of peak power.
Design born for space
The Xiaomi SkyNomad’s design philosophy is based on prioritizing function, while form complements it.
Every design feature traces back to a specific spatial need. And the spatial logic shows up directly in the body, through squared-off proportions.
Three lines define the upright stance: a flat roofline for maximized second and third-row headroom, a continuous waistline, and a rising sill line to lift the visual center of gravity.
A rounded-rectangle motif carries theough the headlights, taillights, door handles, and side cameras for a cohesive design language that features over 140 aerodynamic optimizations.
Smart electric doors open by touch or voice, while rear doors open to nearly 90° for easy passage.
Xiaomi Kunlun built for space
Where the Xiaomi Kunlun architecture comes in is for optimizing packaging across three axes to minimize structural intrusion in the cabin.
The front cabin integration includes a five-in-one EREV system, integrated water-cooling module, mid-mounted HVAC unit, and PTC-compressor two-in-one, compressing the front cabin length to just 1,265mm.
Springs and shock absorbers, on the other hand, are separated into a split layout. This releases 15mm of wheel-arch height for the third row.
Moving the shock absorbers outward optimizes the overall wheel-arch packaging for a full-cabin spatial experience.
Lastly, the rear electric drive unit comes with a highly integrated rear coaxial electric drive to free up 145mm of vertical space.
An integrated-linkage independent suspension uses an H-arm structure to lower the floor by an extra 37mm. Additionally, the large battery pack control module relocated inside reduces floor thickness by 180mm.
The N90 Max comes with 2,760mm of total occupant space and 1,831L of cargo space.
The cabin also includes 34 storage compartments, including an 18.4L front passenger glove box and extended door-panel storage.
Elevated cabin experience
Inside, the SkyNomad’s cabin has an elevated and homelike atmosphere. A cabinet-style center console extends 1,530mm horizontally for a wider visual and physical footprint.
Hidden mechanical air vents keep the dashboard clean while retaining precise manual adjustment. There’s also an accessory port for 27W fast charging, along with mounts for phones, action cameras, and more small devices.
There is a customizable head-up display, 25-speaker audio system, and 6.9-inch rear control screen for full control from the back seat.
Moreover, the front and second row backseats use a 12-layer comfort structure, with the front seats coming with 16-point massage ventilation and heating.
Built on a flat floor, every model comes with extra-long seat slide rails with up to 900mm of travel for both second and third rows.
These rails use aerospace-grade 7-series reinforced aluminum alloy, validated through 15,000 cycles.
The entire interior varries OEKO-TEX certification, applying to infant-grade safety standards.
Extensive personalization options
The Xiaomi SkyNomad comes in three colorways: Volcanic Gray, Mountain Green, and Valley Blue.
Meanwhile, owners can choose from Cream Beige and Mocha Brown for the interior.
The N90 Max wheel options include standard 21″ Prism-shaped Rims, plus optional 21″ Beam-shaped Rims, and 21″ Starbust-shaped Rims Stealth Black Edition for a sportier look.
The variable space inside is designed around real usage patterns. There are plenty of seating configurations, which can all be accessed through the Xiaomi HyperXiaoAi AI assistant.
The independent first and second row seats can face each other. The second and third rows can slide all the way back for even more leg room like a first-class cabin.
Moreover, one touch can turn the second and third rows into a bed. The front seats can be rotated as well to extend the bed’s length.
For transporting plenty of cargo, one touch can activate Ultimate Storage Mode as well.
Safety features
Through Xiaomi Kunlun Total Safety, the SkyNomad’s engineering comes with a system spanning materials, structure, airbags, battery, and the variable-space design itself.
Safety features include:
- high-strength steel and aluminum alloy (90.4% of the EV’s body)
- 2,200 MPa ultra-high-strength steel in 16 critical locations
- 2,200 MPa embedded roll cage for roof-crush load of nearly 14 tons
- 2,200 MPa anti-collision beams
- 13-in-1 integrated hot-formed door ring
- 2,000 MPa integrated hot-formed front floor frame
- 12 airbags across all rows
- 9 collision sensors including added front and C-pillar sensors
- triple-redundant door handles
- dual emergency pull handles
- emergency wading up to 750mm
- 26 standard driver assistance safety features
- 39 anti-pinch points
- Sentry Mode
Automotive
GAC launches new trio of MPVs
New models deliver tailor-made experiences for every user, journey
GAC has officially launched a new trio of multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) in the Philippines: the GAC GN6, GAC E8 HEV, and GAC GN8 PHEV Executive.
The three new models form a purpose-built lineup engineered to deliver tailor-made experiences for every user and every journey.
The lineup is designed around three foundational pillars: flexible space, thoughttul engineering, and reliable performance.
Having three models also cater to a wider range of consumers, from the entry-level segment to the luxury flagship tier.
GAC GN6: flexible comfort, smart space
Price: PhP 1,298,000 (with PhP 100,000 introductory discount)
The entry point to the GAC MPV family, the all-new GAC GN6 represents flexible mobility.
It is powered by a 1.5L turbocharged gasoline engine paired with a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, with up to 176.6 PS and 270 Nm of torque.
A 190mm center aisle allows easier movement between the first and third rows. The GAC GN6 also comes with 324L of luggage space with all seven seats in use.
In case additional cargo space is needed, the third row seats fold flat to expand the capacity to 1,100L.
The cabin includes a 10.25-inch LCD instrument cluster, a 14.6-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and dual-zone automatic climate control with rear controls.
Safety features include: six airbags, electronic stability control, 360-degree HD panoramic camera, and advanced driver assistance systems.
GAC E8 HEV: Premium comfort, hybrid efficiency
Price: GL – PhP 1,858,000 / GX – PhP 1,998,000 (PhP 1,778,000 / PhP 1,918,000 introductory prices)
Meanwhile, the GAC E8 HEV is designed for a more premium MPV experience that combines an efficient hybrid powertrain with first-class passenger comfort and flexible space.
The hybrid system pairs a 2.0L hybrid dedicated engine, producing 140 PS and 180 Nm, with an electric motor generating 182 PS and 300 Nm.
Managed by a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission, the system delivers a combined driving range of more than 1,000 kilometers from the 60L fuel tank.
Built on a 2,930mm wheelbase, the E8 HEV features a low 375mm step-in height to make entry and exit easier.
The interior offers up to 18 seating configuations. Second-row occupants benefit from One-Touch Zero Gravitt seats with power leg rests, ventilation, and massage functions.
The third row Magic Storage seats, meanwhile, can fold flat for up to 1,917L of cargo space. Users can also configure it for Tea Break Mode.
Other features include: acoustic laminated glass, dual sunroofs, power-sliding doors, wireless phone charging, 14.6-inch touchscreen, and ADiGO intelligent driving technologies.
GAC GN8 PHEV Executive: Flagship luxury, comfort
Price: PhP 3,488,000 (with PhP 150,000 introductory discount)
At the top of the MPV hierarchy is the GAC GN8 PHEV Executive.
This seven-seat flagship is created for executive chauffeuring, VIP travel, and flagship family comfort.
Measuring 5,247mm long and riding on a 3,070mm wheelbase, the GN8 PHEV Executive combines a 2.0L turbocharged Miller-cycle engine with a permanent-magnet synchronous motor. The system produces a combined 373 HP and 630 Nm of torque.
Its 25.5 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery provides an electric driving range of up to 120 kilometers. The total combined range is up to 1,038 kilometers. DC fast charging can replenish the battery from 30% to 80% in about 45 minutes.
Inside, the vehicle offers a cabin designed to function as a private luxury lounge or mobile boardroom.
It has a Zero Breeze Air Conditioning system with more than 1,600 micro-vents, while hidden six-directional seat vibration dampers help absorb road movement for a smoother and quieter ride.
Second row captain’s seats feature four-way power leg rests, position memory, heating, ventilation, fold-out tray tables, and massage functions.
The flagship cabin also includes soundproof glass for the first and second rows. There is a 16-speaker audio system, a streaming-video rearview mirror, tri-zone automatic climate control, PM2.5 air filtration, and more.
Automotive
BYD Atto 2 launches with EV, plug-in hybrid options
A full EV variant and two DM-i hybrid options, all built around the same Blade Battery platform
BYD Cars Philippines just launched the Atto 2 at the Trinoma Activity Center in Quezon City. It’s the newest addition to the brand’s New Energy Vehicle lineup here.
You get a choice between a full battery electric vehicle and BYD’s Super DM-i plug-in hybrid system. The DM-i splits further into Premium and Dynamic variants.
On range, the EV variant is rated for up to 380 km on a full charge. The DM-i variants run up to 45 km on electric power alone. Combined range goes up to 1,340 km, based on an efficiency run BYD Cars Philippines conducted with the Automobile Association of the Philippines.
BYD notes those combined-range numbers aren’t guaranteed. They’ll shift depending on driving habits, traffic, road and weather conditions, vehicle load, and battery condition.
Every Atto 2 variant runs on BYD’s Blade Battery. It’s the same platform the brand leans on for durability and thermal stability across its lineup.
All three variants share the same core safety features and SUV styling. The DM-i Premium stands out as the only variant with DiPilot ADAS on board, alongside a fuller set of comfort and convenience features.
Tech-wise, the EV gets a 12.8-inch touchscreen. The DM-i models come with a 10.1-inch display. Both support smartphone connectivity.
The EV variant also gets Vehicle-to-Load capability. It lets you plug appliances or equipment directly into the car and use it as a power source, whether that’s for a road trip, a weekend outdoors, or backup power when you need it.
Price, availability
From July 28 to August 31, 2026, all Atto 2 variants come with launch offers and financing promos through BPI. Once that period ends, official pricing starting September 1 looks like this:
- BYD Atto 2 EV: PhP 1,338,000
- BYD Atto 2 DM-i Premium: PhP 1,258,000
- BYD Atto 2 DM-i Dynamic: PhP 1,048,000
Every unit comes with an 8-year warranty on the Drive Unit, a 6-year or 160,000 km bumper-to-bumper warranty, and an 8-year or 160,000 km warranty on the Blade Battery.
Color options include Breeze Green, exclusive to the EV; Cosmos Black, exclusive to the DM-i; along with Harbour Grey, Midnight Blue, and Ski White across the lineup.
The Atto 2 launch also kicks off the BYD Tech Tour, running at the Trinoma Activity Center from July 28 to August 2.
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