TessDrive brings you the latest developments across dealer networks, retail footprint expansions, executive leadership appointments, and regional market strategies shaping the automotive business landscape.
Philippine Manufacturing Week 2026 Concludes 3-Day Industry Showcase
Philippine Manufacturing Week 2026 concluded its three-day run at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City. Held this July 23 to 25, the integrated event brought together the 3rd Auto Parts and Vehicles Expo Philippines (APVE) and the 12th Philippine Die and Mould Machinery and Equipment Exhibition (PDMEX), creating a major B2B platform spanning precision engineering, die and mold machinery, and automotive aftermarket solutions.
The opening ceremony featured distinguished government representatives who emphasized manufacturing’s strategic importance to the national economy. Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Deputy Director General for Operations Vivian Santos outlined PEZA’s commitment to policy support and infrastructure development aimed at positioning the Philippines as a competitive Asean manufacturing hub. Cooperative Development Authority Chairperson Ferdinand Jesus Ortega highlighted support programs for transport cooperatives and automotive micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The third edition of APVE featured expanded international pavilions from China, Taiwan, and Thailand, reflecting growing demand for aftermarket components. Meanwhile, PDMEX—co-organized by the Philippine Die and Mold Association (PDMA) and Informa Markets—showcased cutting-edge precision tooling, robotics, and digital transformation in manufacturing.
Informa Markets Philippines country general manager Rungphech Chitanuwat said: “The co-location of APVE and PDMEX under Philippine Manufacturing Week represents a strategic milestone in our commitment to advancing the Philippine manufacturing ecosystem. By bringing together the automotive aftermarket and die and mold industries, we are creating powerful synergies that showcase the interconnected nature of modern manufacturing. This integrated approach enables our exhibitors and visitors to explore the complete value chain—from precision tooling and component manufacturing to aftermarket distribution and service—all under one roof. We are proud to facilitate the connections and knowledge exchange that will drive innovation and growth across these vital sectors.”
The event welcomed approximately 8,000 industry professionals, supported by key agencies including DOST and PEZA
.For full post-event details and future exhibition schedules, visit informamarkets.com.
Tesla opens new destination chargers in BGC and Laguna
Tesla Philippines expanded its charging footprint with the opening of two new destination charging locations in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) and Laguna, enhancing charging convenience for electric vehicle (EV) owners across key business and lifestyle hubs.
The new southern charging site is located at Southwoods Mall in Laguna, equipped with 4 destination chargers operating at 10 kW, allowing drivers to recharge while shopping or dining.
In Metro Manila, Tesla installed an 11kW destination charging hub at Arthaland Century Pacific Tower in BGC, providing convenient charging access for office workers, residents, and visitors in the business district.
Tesla combines its expanding physical infrastructure with a fully digital ownership model, allowing customers to configure and order vehicles online with transparent pricing. Through the Tesla mobile app, owners can locate charging points, manage charging sessions, and access ecosystem perks including supercharging credits, complimentary insurance on select purchases, referral rewards, and Tesla Owners Club privileges.
View charging locations, mobile app integration, and vehicle ordering details at tesla.com/en_ph.
MG Motor Philippines retains 8th ranking in H1 2026 sales
MG Motor Philippines maintained its position as the country’s 8th best-selling automotive brand during the first half of 2026, according to official industry sales data from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc (Campi). The brand recorded 868 units sold in June, bringing cumulative H1 (first half) 2026 sales to 4,232 units. SUV models led overall performance with 1,810 units, while passenger cars contributed 1,676 units. The MG5 sedan remained the brand’s top seller with 1,215 units, followed by the MG ZS crossover with 1,040 units, and the MG HS Hybrid+ recording 533 units.
Local expansion of MG’s new energy vehicle (NEV) portfolio—including the MG G50 PHEV, MG HS PHEV, MG RX9 PHEV, and MG4 Urban EV—has further bolstered market momentum. Locally, these figures reflect parent company SAIC Motor’s global milestone, becoming the first Chinese automaker to surpass 2 million units in H1 2026 with 2.045 million vehicles sold. SAIC’s NEV sales reached 796,000 units in H1 (up 23.1% year-on-year), while international sales rose 48.7% YoY to 735,000 units. In Europe, MG retained its spot as the top-selling Chinese brand for the 11th consecutive year, delivering over 190,000 vehicles in H1 2026.
MG Motor Philippines president Wei Wei Zhang said, “We are encouraged by the growing confidence that Filipino motorists continue to place in the MG brand. Maintaining our position among the country’s top automotive brands while expanding our NEV lineup reflects the strength of our product portfolio, dealer network, and customer-focused approach. This local momentum is aligned with the broader success of SAIC Motor globally, where increasing demand for intelligent and electrified mobility solutions continues to drive strong growth across international markets. As we move forward, we remain committed to making innovative and globally competitive mobility solutions more accessible to Filipino motorists.”
XPENG formally announces Q3 2026 Philippine market entry
Global AI and technology company XPENG confirmed its official entry into the Philippine market set for the third quarter of 2026 through its direct local subsidiary, XPENG Philippines. The company will launch with two initial Smart EV models equipped with full-stack in-house advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and intelligent operating software.
Operating as a direct subsidiary rather than through an independent third-party importer, XPENG Philippines aims to provide direct manufacturer support, transparent pricing, and dedicated aftersales infrastructure. XPENG currently operates in over 60 countries across Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Oceania, and Latin America, supported by more than 380 overseas retail locations and regional management hubs.
Ford Philippines names Pushparaj Muthusamy as FCSD director
Ford Philippines has appointed Pushparaj “Raj” Muthusamy as Ford customer service division (FCSD) director. Based in Manila and reporting to managing director Pedro Simoes, Muthusamy succeeds Joyce Laxamana, who transitioned to parts supply and logistics director for Ford Asean.
Muthusamy joined Ford Motor Co in 2020, bringing over 15 years of experience across aftersales planning, service processes, and data analytics. He previously held key roles within Ford international markets group (IMG), leading AI/ML-driven Likelihood to Service campaigns that yielded a 3x increase in service conversions alongside major customer retention programs in South Africa. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Automobile Engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology.
Simoes said: “Raj’s expertise in data analytics and his customer-centric approach have already delivered significant results for our operations. His leadership will be pivotal as we continue to modernize our service offerings, build long-term loyalty with our customers, and enhance the Ford ownership experience with focus on aftersales.”
Kia Philippines inaugurates new Kia Bohol 3S dealership
Kia Philippines, operating under Ayala Group’s ACMobility platform, officially inaugurated its new 3S (sales, service, and spare parts) dealership in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, in partnership with Strong Motocentrum Inc.
Located at 0657 CPG North Avenue, Barangay Cogon, Tagbilaran City, the facility adheres to Kia’s global store image standards. It features a 364-sqm showroom capable of displaying up to 7 models, alongside a 275-sqm service bay equipped with two vehicle lifters and staffed by Kia-certified technicians. The dealership operates Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Kia Philippines managing director Jay Lopez said: “The official inauguration of Kia Bohol is a vital step in our mission to widen our reach and make premium mobility solutions accessible to more Filipinos in the Visayas region. Through our partnership with Strong Motocentrum Inc, we are opening a new structure that serves as a hub of innovation and reliable customer care, bringing the global Kia standard directly to the Boholano community. Establishing this advanced 3S dealership ensures that the local ownership experience matches the premium quality that Kia vehicles have to offer. Whether our customers are visiting the showroom to find their next vehicle or bringing it in for routine maintenance, we want every interaction at Kia Bohol to reflect our brand philosophy of Movement That Inspires.”
Explore model availability and service schedules at kiaphilippines.com.
Inchcape, Stellantis conclude CDJR distribution partnership
Inchcape Philippines and Stellantis mutually agreed to conclude their distribution agreement for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram (CDJR) brands in the Philippines, effective at the end of June 2027.
The decision aligns with Inchcape Group’s ongoing global portfolio review to focus capital investments on high-growth automotive brands. Inchcape confirmed it will maintain existing customer commitments, warranty support, and dealer operations through the transition period while continuing its partnership with Stellantis in other global markets.
Inchcape managing director for South Asia and Pacific Alex Hammett noted: “Our priority is to ensure a smooth transition, and we will continue to work closely with Stellantis to support our customers, dealers and partners, while honoring our existing commitments. Our focus is now on continuing to grow our existing portfolio and bringing new products to our customers in the Philippines.”
GAC PH joins Campi following subsidiary reorganization
GAC International Philippines was officially admitted as a member of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc (Campi). The membership follows a strategic reorganization earlier in 2026, where GAC transitioned into a wholly owned direct subsidiary under GAC International.
The brand operates under its “ONE GAC” philosophy, unifying GAC Motor, AION, and Hyptec under a single operational banner to streamline nationwide sales, service, and spare parts distribution. GAC currently operates 30 dealerships nationwide supported by a centralized parts distribution warehouse. Internal combustion vehicles receive a 5-year or 150,000 km warranty, while EV models carry an 8-year or 160,000 km vehicle warranty, an 8-year or 200,000 km core electric system warranty, and 2 years of free roadside assistance.
GAC International senior vice president Steven Wang stated: “Joining Campi is a significant honor and a pivotal chapter for our operations. We are eager to leverage this partnership to accelerate our growth in the Philippine market. As we continue re-consolidating our presence in the country, this membership underscores our deep-rooted commitment to providing Filipinos with world-class engineering and a comprehensive, future-ready automotive experience.”
Book test drives or locate dealerships at gacgroup.com/en-ph/test-drive.
Green SM earns double honors at HR Asia Awards 2026
Electric ride-hailing platform Green SM earned two major recognitions at the HR Asia Awards 2026: “Best Companies to Work for in Asia – Vietnam” and the Technology Empowerment Award. Evaluated under the Total Engagement Assessment Model (TEAM), Green SM scored above industry benchmarks in workplace technology enablement (4.8/5), workplace sustainability (4.71/5), and diversity, equity, and inclusion (4.72/5).
The company was recognized for its “Every Voice Counts” feedback framework, structured career progression programs for “Green Drivers,” and digitalized HR operations. Green SM targets expanding its global workforce and partner network to approximately 400,000 people across its active operating markets.
Green SM global chief executive officer Nguyen Quoc Tuan said: “Our people have always been the cornerstone of Green SM’s sustainable growth. We believe that when individuals are empowered by technology and united by shared values, our teams across every market can deliver exceptional experiences for our customers. These two awards affirm the direction we have taken and further strengthen our commitment to building a truly multinational organization with its roots in Vietnam.”
PH among top 3 export markets for Ford Ranger Raptor
Ford Philippines announced that the Philippines ranks as one of the top three global export markets for the Ford Ranger Raptor, joining Australia and South Africa in overall volume demand. Global cumulative production of the Ranger Raptor surpassed 215,000 units as of May 31, 2026, since its initial production launch at Ford Thailand Manufacturing (FTM) in Rayong in 2018.
In the Philippines, the lineup is headlined by the Ranger Raptor 3.0L V6 EcoBoost, producing 397 PS and 583 Nm of torque via a performance-tuned 10-speed automatic transmission with an anti-lag system in Baja mode, paired with FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve internal bypass shock absorbers.
Ford Philippines managing director Pedro Simoes remarked: “The Ranger Raptor has completely redefined what a high-performance pickup can be, and its sustained demand in the country is a testament to its unmatched capabilities. This milestone shows that Filipino enthusiasts truly appreciate the world-class engineering and sheer capability that Ford Performance builds into every Raptor. It has transcended from being just a pickup truck and has become a lifestyle symbol and a badge of success for a rapidly growing community of proud owners across the country.”
Explore specifications and dealer locations at ford.com.ph/showroom/trucks/ford-ranger-raptor.