Automotive

Right-Hand Drive: My first experience

It’s never too late to do something new

Published

April 19, 2019

It was a Friday, my birthday. I, along with the local media team, flew to Hong Kong for an annual event on electrifying cities to achieve a greener environment.

After the warm welcome of the event’s hosts, they started briefing us of the day’s itinerary. We were to use the company’s electric vehicles and drive them through Hong Kong’s three main regions to get a feel of how they ride and put their features to real-world use.

Exciting, right? Thing is, Hong Kong is a right-hand drive territory and I live and grew up in a country with left-hand vehicles. I’ve never driven on the opposite side of the road. I figured I’d just wing it.

I figured I’d just wing it.

They finally sent us out to the cars in pairs and assigned us an official rep either to make sure everything went well or that we didn’t run away with the car — pretty sure it was more of the former.

My partner for this ride was a fellow journalist in the automotive industry. He would always crack jokes on almost anything he saw which somehow took my mind off the fact that I’d be driving in a foreign country with unfamiliar roads during my first right-hand drive experience.

We agreed that I’d take the wheel for the first half of the trip and switch seats halfway so we both could experience the electric vehicle. I grabbed the door handle on the right side, opened it, and gave my weight to its cushioned driver seat.

I was faced with the cockpit of the vehicle. As a person who likes things neat and in order, the buttons, displays, and icons were neatly laid out. I was not overwhelmed.

I spotted a mounted GoPro on the passenger’s side aimed directly at me. I thought it was cool to have a copy of myself driving on the opposite side of the road for the first time.

I kind of felt like I was in a sci-fi movie.

With everyone inside, I stepped on the brake and pressed the ignition button. The motor of the car whirred with a held-back enthusiasm. “I’m still not used to how quiet it is,” I told my companions, explaining that I was already able to drive the car — only the previous year’s model. The absence of a gas-guzzling engine made the vehicle come to life not with the sound of a heavy breathing dog but more like Wall-E‘s Eva powering up. I kind of felt like I was in a sci-fi movie.

Then we were off to take on the gloomy and chilly weather. The hotel’s lobby is elevated so there was a long spiral-like ramp that led in and out of the driveway. Turning towards the ramp was critical for me as it was my first turn to the opposite lane. “Always enter the left lane. Always enter the left lane.” I kept telling myself this over and over just to rewire my mind and unlearn the driving system that I grew up with and adapt to this new setup.

We drove down the ramp, onto the street, and later on into the highway. “So far so good,” I thought to myself. The idea was to drive through a pre-designated route using Google Maps. But, as with most times, things didn’t go as smoothly as planned. The app didn’t work properly for the first 15 to 20 minutes of our trip. It had problems with GPS so I had to listen to the company’s representative seated at the back as he pointed when and where to turn.

But, as with most times, things didn’t go as smoothly as planned.

For a while there, I was like an Uber driver going through the busy streets of Hong Kong.

The vehicle responded very well every time I stepped on the gas pedal. We were discussing that having an electric motor means power is quickly channeled to the wheels so it responds a lot faster compared to internal combustion engines. I also liked how the car didn’t have problems gaining speed whenever I needed to catch up. Basically, exploring the car’s array of features, while driving, helped me eliminate the few anxieties that I had left. Yes, I enjoyed the drive.

It was about 30 to 40 minutes in that I became more confident driving the right-hand vehicle. Entering the left lane every time I turned became more and more natural. Of course, there were times when I’d still forget I was on the opposite side — like that time I was paying at the toll gate and opened the left window instead of the right. Boy, was the teller confused when I did that.

While probably a really simple and obvious solution, one of the things that helped me with the transition was to think of everything in the opposite way. That way, It was easier for me to grasp the entire idea of right-hand driving. If my natural habit was to keep right, I knew that during that moment, I needed to keep left. When it felt natural to flick the turn signal using the left switch, I’d use the right since the left would be for activating the wipers.

If my natural habit was to keep right, I knew that during that moment, I needed to keep left.

That kind of mindset got me through the entire ride right up to the point where I and the other media I was with had to switch for his turn to drive.

I went down, walked around to the other side, and got in the passenger seat. It was weird because since I was back to sitting on the left side, the initial response of my arms was to grab the steering wheel and start the vehicle, forgetting all of a sudden the “brainwashing lessons” I taught myself just half an hour ago.

Seeing the GoPro that was mounted right above me, I reached for it to check if it was still recording. I then noticed there were no blinking red lights. I leaned closer and to my surprise, it wasn’t even turned on. So much for documenting my first right-hand experience, right?

“It wasn’t recording the entire time!” I exclaimed. It was unfortunate but we had a laugh out of it. I figured I’d just write down the events that happened so that I wouldn’t forget it. I powered up the action camera and started recording for my partner’s sake. With dark clouds and light rain still accompanying us, we started driving back to the hotel.

My key takeaway from the experience was to know what works for yourself.

During our trip back, I reflected on what I just did, from the excitement to the feeling of fulfillment of doing something the first time and succeeding. My key takeaway from the experience was to know what works for yourself. For me, I simply had to do the opposite of what I’m comfortable with to make sure I had clear control of what to do for certain situations.

Of course, it would also help a lot if one would closely study and practice for something like this. I just didn’t have much choice and had limited time to prepare for the drive.

We got back to the hotel, thanked the company’s representative who came with us for being an accommodating guide, and I went straight to my hotel room to freshen up for the night’s welcome dinner.

It was a great experience overall and am still thankful for the brand extending an invite to the event. The fact that I did something for the first time on my birthday only made it more special. To more drives!

Related Topics:Electric vehicle EV specials

Automotive

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

Plus a PhP 20,000 discount

Published

April 2, 2024

Levi Verora Jr

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.

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.

Published

April 2, 2024

MJ Jucutan

“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.

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.

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!

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.

Automotive

Nissan launches Note e-Power in Singapore

Start your journey on the right note

Published

March 22, 2024

GadgetMatch

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.