If you visit a Hyundai dealership sometime in the near future, don’t be too surprised to find trucks and buses lined up alongside their hatchbacks, sedans, vans, and SUVs. This will be the norm from now on as Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI) has been granted distributorship of Hyundai Commercial Vehicles (CV) in the country.
While the Korean automaker offers more than 150 different CV models worldwide in over 100 countries, only a handful will be made available in the Philippines for the time being. Light Trucks include the HD65, HD72, and HD78, which are 6-wheeled cabs with a 7.2 ton carrying capacity. There will also be a Heavy-duty HD270 Dump Truck, as well as buses that come in the form of a Country (29+1 seater), H350 Bus, and a H350 Van.
According to the press release, Hyundai CVs “boast superior end-to-end design and engineering ingenuity that guarantee an exceptional ride, handling, strength, durability, and safety.” They also work well in all working conditions, meet stringent safety standards, and offer a cost-effective solution for all types of businesses – all of which are really good selling points if you ask us.
Like Hyundai’s passenger vehicles, all these big-wheeled behemoths will also be offered with full aftersales and parts support. The service will be supported by the newly-built Hyundai Logistics Center (HLC) in Calamba, Laguna.
Hopefully, if all goes well, Hyundai might want to expand into tractors and heavy equipment.
The timely announcement comes as HARI celebrates its 15th anniversary as the official Philippine distributor for passenger cars. HARI’s decision to bring in CVs now is also strategic. Aside from the growing Philippine economy, the newly-signed ASEAN-Korea Free Trade Agreement (AKFTA) puts them at huge advantage due to lower importation costs.
Just don’t expect us to test drive their trucks and buses anytime soon.
