Automotive

Gogoro introduces their smart e-scooters in the Philippines

The company’s first grand launch outside Taiwan

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With the rising demand for EVs (electric vehicles) in the Philippines, now is the best time for Gogoro to finally introduce their smart e-scooters in the country.

Smart and Sexy

Gogoro Taiwan has officially introduced four of their e-scooters to the Philippine market.

Gogoro SuperSport

The SuperSport is their top-class model with speeds reaching as fast as 96km/h. A representative even told me that it can exceed as much as 100-120km/h if the user permits to reach its exceeding potential.

This e-scooter has three different shades: Arctic Gray, Aura Blue, and Polar Green.

The Gogoro S1 looks pretty much like the SuperSport but with a chassis crafted from racing-grade aluminum.

Gogoro Delight

Designed by four women from the Gogoro Taiwan team, Delight is meant for any woman (or basically anyone regardless of gender) who wants a lighter and more comfortable e-scooter without actually sacrificing its max speed potential.

This model comes in three colors: Beryl Green, Gem Blue, and Pearl Gold.

No driver’s license? No problem! The Gogoro Viva is the best bet for you. Despite its quirky and chic-looking design, this e-scooter doesn’t compromise its potential and reaches speeds of up to 50km/h.

This fun-looking scooter is available in louder-looking Pomegranate Red and Wasabi Yellow, plus pastel-coded hues in Mint Blue and Seasalt White.

What makes all of these scooters smart is the ability to wireless connect them through Gogoro’s app.

No live demonstration was presented to us but several smart connectivity features should be expected such as displaying one’s exact parking location, identifying potential issues in the scooter, keyless unlocking via the app, and even additional security using Touch or Face ID in iPhones.

The Gogoro Super App also enables any user to customize some of the scooter’s function as well as updating several features over the air if possible.

Safe and (No) Sound

Gogoro e-scooters have fail-safe features that prevent the user from being prone to accidents and other mishaps.

Aside from a keyless entry via the app, it can also be unlocked by using the dedicated smart keycard with iQ System. While it may display the massive oval LED display, it doesn’t mean the e-scooter is ready to go.

Another step should be made in order to fully start-up the e-scooter. By pressing the “Go” button, it would then activate its motors and brakes so any user/rider is set and settled before they actually go with their EV companion. This is also to avoid having stolen bikes by unwanted thieves.

Just in case the e-scooter falls by itself (or even while you are riding), it automatically stops all of the EV’s functions to avoid unwanted speeding and acceleration.

Also, this is already given for any EV but, you won’t hear any sound from these e-scooters simply because they are full-on electric.

Swappable and Sustainable

Usual e-scooters are all being charged via plug outlets in EV stations, homes, and apartments. But with the growing population who rely on renting along crammed urban “spaces”, it’s more convenient, reliable, sustainable, and safer to just hot-swap the batteries through their dedicated “Gogoro Network” swapping stations.

Through the use of the Gogoro app, it can tell you whether one of the batteries (or both) needed to be replaced.

Swapping out can be done by anyone (again, regardless of gender) in less than a minute. Though it is said that each battery pod weighs 20 kilograms, with the right handling, you can easily swap one in no time.

As of this writing, there are five existing stations wherein prospective users can easily hot-swap their batteries whenever they needed to be replaced. There’s vague information stated by a representative but as far as I remember, there’s one in Dela Rosa Carpark in Makati, another in BGC, plus Phoenix Gas Station in Parañaque.

With less reliance to power electricity, this also means it’s more sustainable in the long run as it doesn’t harness much of the energy that produce greenhouse gases — which in return harms our only livable planet.

No further information on how it can be bought and accessed but a store rep answered me that it will be subscription-based and can be paid through Gcash, the country’s leading cashless payment system.

Test To Witness

After the official launch announcement, Gogoro Philippines has also prepared a mini testing track at the very heart of Greenbelt 5 for peeps to actually try out the newly-launched two-wheeled EVs.

As I already spoiled it at the very beginning, Gogoro’s first three e-scooters require you a driver license before you can ride and use one. Unfortunately, your in-house writer never applied for one. Thus, the clout-chasing photo above with Gogoro’s top-class e-scooter among the bunch.

Nevertheless, it never stopped people with no license to try one. Individuals who are well-versed in riding motorcycles wouldn’t have a hard time adjusting and actually moving into using one of these e-scooters.

Others with less knowledge but have overflowing braveness literally did their “ride or die” journey. Personally, I just chose to watch fellow media friends ride and enjoy these new two-wheeled EVs.

Exhilirating Experience

The Gogoro Experience Center (GEC) is now open for everyone to visit. It can be found at the 2nd floor of Greenbelt 3 (across H&M) where the Greenbelt branch of Globe used to be located. The first experience store of the scooter company was built with Greenbelt in mind as one of the greenest spots across Makati.

Aside from witnessing all the present e-scooters in their full glory, you can also experience the utmost mobility and comfort of these scooters. Moreover, practicing how to operate the scooters and actually swapping out the batteries before you do it in the real world.

You can even talk to Gogoro representatives and experts your inquiries and curiosities about their products and the how the whole Gogoro ecosystem works.

Greater EV future

This promised partnership came through Globe and Gogoro’s long time of hardships and utmost patience. It actually took seven years for the two companies to bring next-level EV mobility in the Philippines.

Both Globe Group’s President and CEO Ernest Cu and Gogoro’s Founder, Taiwan CEO and Chairman of the Board Horace Luke shared how they connected with each other in sharing the same vision to the country — bringing the carbon footprint lower by promoting electric vehicles as the next main mode of transportation in the Filipino scene.

And with Ayala’s Jaime Alfonso stepping into the scene and having the same sentiments as Luke achieving a “net zero by 2050”, the conglomerate is committed to continuously promote green and sustainability.

No wonder why most Gogoro Network stations stated earlier are either located near an Ayala Mall or a related business/establishment. Expect these will expand further as we head towards an EV future.

Pricing and Availability

Gogoro Philippines hasn’t announced official pricing for these e-scooters but they are promising it will be announced by December 2023. More models will soon be revealed by 2024.

Custom accessories and parts will also be available in order for future users to make better styles for their bikes as well as their overall rider look.

Automotive

Next-Gen Ford Territory: Free service package, cash discounts

Plus a PhP 20,000 discount

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To celebrate the first year of the Next-Gen Ford Territory, Ford Philippines is offering an exclusive service package for new owners of the five-seater SUV.

The Territory 5-Star Care Package will be available for all customers getting the Next-Gen Ford Territory Titanium from April 1 to 30.

On top of a standard 5-year warranty, the package is inclusive of a 5-year scheduled service plan (SSP) and 5-year emergency roadside assistance.

What’s great about the SSP is that it is a prepaid plan, so customers won’t have to shell out more funds from future parts or labor price increases on their periodic maintenance service.

Ford’s emergency roadside assistance, meanwhile, covers 24/7 support, nationwide towing coverage, minor on-site repairs, and other services.

The Titanium model starts at PhP 1,335,000 and is available in the Panther Black, Star White, Lustrous Gray, Ruby Red, and Blue Metallic color options.

The promo also comes with a PhP 20,000 cash discount. To avail, visit this link: Territory 5-Star Care

ALSO READ: Tracing roots across Manila with the Next-Gen Ford Territory

Next-Gen Ford Territory

One of the best-selling local SUVs today, the Next-Gen Ford Territory is crafted according to the highest global quality standards. It features advanced technologies and added safety features.

Some of safety features that are definitely useful for local driving conditions include the following:

  • Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go Feature
  • Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Active Park Assist

The SUV also has a 360-degree camera to aid drivers with their trips. For comfort and convenience especially for long rides, the vehicle has wireless charging and wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

Under the hood, the Territory boasts of a EcoBoost 1.5L engine. It has a 7-speed automatic transmission aided by Ford’s wet-type Dual Clutch engagement system. This system allows for easy acceleration and improved fuel efficiency.

Additionally, the Territory has four driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and Mountain. These help drivers to tailor the driving experience depending on the scenario.

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Automotive

Tracing roots across Manila with the Next-Gen Ford Territory

Sometimes, you have to look back to enjoy the present and get excited about the future.

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Ford Territory

“He who does not look back from where he came will never reach his destination.”

That’s a Filipino proverb I kept hearing while I was growing up. Nearly three decades later, I started learning what that proverb really meant.

We have to look back in order to move forward. At least, that was one of my takeaways when Ford Philippines invited us to drive the Next-Gen Ford Territory and reimagine the way we tour our cities.

Along with media folks and members of the Ford Territory Club Philippines, we hopped between places that honor the roots of our heritage and culture.

The cars that Filipino presidents used

I was never fond of visiting museums. But there was something alluring in seeing pieces of history and knowing how it all contributed to the present we live in.

Our first stop was the Presidential Car Museum housing the old cars used by the former Philippine Presidents. It is located within the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines.

Inside, you can stumble upon the 1941 Packard 180 that both former President Jose P. Laurel and Sergio Osmena used. Former Presidents Roxas, Magsaysay, and Macapagal trusted a Cadillac, while Quirino used a Chrysler Crown Imperial.

 

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Former President Ferdinand Marcos’ Lincoln Continental Mark VI grabbed our attention, along with his First Lady’s car — an opulent Rolls Royce Phantom — which is a testament to the opulence and excessive grandeur they exhibited during their reign.

Meanwhile, Aquino up until Arroyo, the former presidents after Marcos Sr.’s regime have used a humbling yet trustworthy Mercedes-Benz instead.

Touring in the museum lit a fire inside that I didn’t know still existed. I thought I was already apolitical, but hearing the stories and reasonings behind the choice of presidential car sparked the angst I’ve long buried.

And if you’re that curious, it’s best to pay a visit to the museum. Maybe you can have a different perspective.

The Presidential Car Museum is open for public viewing between 9AM to 4PM on Tuesdays to Sundays.

Crafts, textiles, and the old script

After our active parking session at the Quezon Memorial Circle and relying on Adaptive Cruise Control while driving through the Skyway, I took the wheels as we approached the City of Manila and its never-ending stoplights.

I may hate Manila’s busy streets and traffic jams, but I know I’m well-equipped to navigate its roads (and find a way to overtake between humongous trucks) as we find our way to the National Museum of Anthropology.

Nestled beside the walled city of Intramuros, the museum found itself on a sweet, easy spot for city-dwellers, park visitors, and foreigners touring the historical city. It was easy to locate, which makes it inviting to a lot of visitors.

Ford Territory

Inside, I was mesmerized by artifacts showcasing the chronicles of living in the Philippines — even from pre-historic times. I had a marvelous time staring at battle axes and bolos. I was incredibly drawn! Maybe, just maybe, I was a warrior in my past life.

We also took some time exploring the “Hibla ng Lahing Filipino Gallery” which exhibits the traditional textiles created and worn across the Philippines.

On the next room beside the textile gallery, you’ll find the Baybayin Gallery, which was completed in 2014. The gallery houses the old writing systems used by ancient Filipinos, as well as the continued tradition of writing syllabic scripts.

Ford Territory

The National Museum of Anthropology is located in the Agrifina Circle, Rizal Park adjacent to the National Museum of Fine Arts building. It’s open from 9AM to 6PM on Tuesdays to Sundays.

Living like an Ilustrado

Our last stop for the day was Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Quezon City. It’s a more accessible space housing replicas of famed Spanish-Filipino houses.

Originally, you can find it in Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar where almost 40 Spanish-Filipino Colonial structures were collected and restored to showcase the heritage of the Philippines.

Upon entering, you’ll be transported back in time — as if you’re back in the 18th century. It wasn’t my first visit, though, as I’ve already tried to play like an Ilustrado a few years back.

The place isn’t just offering a heritage tour, but also an Italian restaurant, a cafe, garden, and banquet hall.

It’s a fine way to experience dining in a Spanish stone house at the 2-storey replica of Casa Monroy, while looking at the beauty of St. Joseph Chapel brimming with intricate brick and woodworks.

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Quezon City is located at 134 Roosevelt Avenue, San Francisco Del Monte, Quezon City, Philippines 1105. It’s open from 11AM to 9PM.

One step forward, three steps back

As the day ends, we drove back to Quezon Memorial Circle where we started. It was bewildering to bridge everything that happened — from looking back to learning how to appreciate the present, and becoming excited to what the future holds.

These were just my thoughts as we navigate the dimly lit roads with the help of the Next-Gen Ford Territory. We progressed so much that we’re enjoying a vehicle that can keep us comfortable in long rides. Imagine if we still have to travel by foot or by riding a calesa!

Ford Territory

The museum-hopping tour around Manila made me appreciate riding a smart, safe, and feature-packed vehicle. It gives me the peace of mind needed to explore a vibrant, busy city.

For your peace of mind

Customers who purchase the Next-Gen Ford Territory will receive a complimentary Peace of Mind service package. This includes free inspection that can be availed within 2 months of 2,000 kms (whichever comes first). You also get two (2) free labor on periodic maintenance schedule (PMS) services.

This is on top of the 5-year warranty — ensuring a worry-free ownership experiences.

Customers can visit any Ford dealership to get more information on the available 5-year scheduled service plan (SSP) and a 5-year emergency roadside assistance with a Territory purchase.

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Automotive

Nissan launches Note e-Power in Singapore

Start your journey on the right note

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Nissan Note E Power

In 2020, Nissan unveiled the Kicks e-Power, which the car manufacturer touted as not just one’s conventional hybrid vehicle. Four years after, Nissan is back with a new fully electric motor-driven offering released in Singapore: the Nissan Note e-Power.

The successor to Kicks e-Power, the Note e-Power also harnesses Nissan’s second generation e-Power technology. The electrified hatchback uses fuel to power its electric motor. This motor then drives the car for a smoother, quieter, and more efficient run each time, minus the need for charging.

Price, availability

The Note e-Power dons a simplistic Japanese hatchback look with a more curved roof compared to typical SUV designs. This is accentuated by a signature V grille and slim-line headlights.

The car is available in Vivid Blue/Black Star (two-tone), Opera Mauve/Black Star (two-tone), Brilliant Silver, Dark Metal Grey, and Burgundy Red. It is available for booking starting at SG$ 143,800 until 12 noon of April 3.

Customers shall also get a 10-year lithium-ion battery warranty and five-year unlimited mileage vehicle warranty.

Enhanced safety features

The Note e-Power comes packed with enhanced safety features. For the first time on a Nissan vehicle, a 1,470 MPa ultra-high tensile steel has been adopted in the vehicle chassis. This contributes to weight reduction and improved passive safety performance.

To aid drivers throughout their rides, the car also comes with intelligent systems, such as:

  • Intelligent Emergency Braking
  • Intelligent Lane Intervention
  • Intelligent Rearview Mirror
  • Intelligent Trace Control
  • Intelligent Forward Collision Warning
  • Intelligent Driver Alertness
  • High Beam Assist
  • Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold

When parking, the system on dashboard shows the vehicle’s distance to an obstacle by green, yellow, and red indicators. Should they forget locking and unlocking, the car also automatically locks when the driver walks away, and unlocks when the driver approaches.

Futuristic interior

Inside, the Note e-Power has a Mizuhiki-themed dashboard for a modern and elegant appearance. On the driver side, there is a seven-inch display interface, an LCD monitor, and a USB Type C port. There is also a two-tier glovebox on the passenger side for ample storage.

In the middle, the gearshift sports a futuristic design that looks more like a mix of a jet plane’s center stick and a computer’s mouse, rather than a traditional knob. Furthermore, there is enough space to place a phone or wallet beside the gearshift.

The seats offer large armrests and plenty of leg room. At the back, the car has a spacious boot that can be expanded up to 670 liters when the rear seats are folded down.

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