Peugeot made a splash circa 2005 when it launched the brand (then new to the Philippines) and sold cars like the 206CC coupe-convertible and 307 hatchback. Lack of distribution outlets and relatively pricey offerings limited the acceptance of the brand, although it attracted a small cult following. Now the French automaker is back, under a new distributor. Eurobrands Distributor Inc. (EDI) is under the Alvarez group of companies, also the distributors for Kia and BMW.
The new range is composed of four vehicles: the 3008 and 5008 MPVs, the 508 sedan, and the RCZ sporty coupe. All but the RCZ will carry Peugeot’s technological advantage: diesel engines. The company is reported to be the biggest producer of diesel engines in the world, with other companies such as Mini even sourcing their engines from Peugeot. The diesels will come with auto start-stop technology as standard, a tech touted as “micro hybrid.” The engines will shut down automatically at idle, while the electrical systems remain on. With a large alternator and starter on board, the engine can kick in almost instantaneously, when the driver steps on the accelerator or toggles the gearshift.
EDI president Felix Mabilog Jr. laid out the company’s ambitious plans: “We expect to sell an average of 2500 cars per year for the next three years but no less than 10,000 units [per year]” after five years of operation. Mr. Mabilog equates this to five percent of the forecasted industry sales. The group will open at least 12 full-service dealerships by the end of 2013, five in Metro Manila and seven in other major cities. Eight dealerships are already under construction and will be operational by December 2012.
“[Our cars]…will be priced way below other European and American-made cars and just slightly higher than Asian-made models,” promises Mr. Mabilog.
One thing is for certain: we will soon see distinctive, stylish new models zipping along our streets.
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