TessDrive brings you the latest developments across retail network expansions, full-service EV hubs, corporate milestones, and model debuts shaping the Philippine automotive business landscape.
XPeng confirms formal Philippine debut this September
Global AI and technology company XPeng officially confirmed it will stage its grand public brand launch in the Philippines in September 2026. Operating as a direct subsidiary under XPeng Philippines, the local organization will oversee nationwide sales, marketing, distribution, and after-sales operations.
The September launch will mark the Philippine debut of two intelligent EV models:
XPeng X9: The brand’s flagship intelligent seven-seater designed for executive transport and tech-forward families, featuring advanced AI connectivity and luxury cabin appointments.
XPeng L03: An intelligent SUV coupe combining contemporary aerodynamics, software-defined vehicle architecture, and comprehensive driver-assistance systems.
XPeng operates across more than 60 countries and regions worldwide, supported by over 380 overseas stores. Complete Philippine specifications, variant details, and pricing will be revealed at the public launch.
Follow updates at @xpengphilippines on Facebook and Instagram, or visit xpeng.com.
VinFast Marikina Transitions into Full 1S Plus Service Hub
VinFast Philippines and dealer partner Xentro Motors OPC (under XRC Mall Developer Inc) upgraded VinFast Marikina into a full-service automotive facility. Located at 8 Mayor Gil Fernando Avenue, Sto. Niño, Marikina City, the 500-sqm facility now integrates sales, service, and spare parts under one roof.
The facility features three specialized working bays with vehicle lifters, a dedicated spare parts warehouse stocked with mechanical and collision components, 2 indoor wall chargers, and 6 outdoor charging stations housing a total of 8 EV fast-charging units. The location supports preventive maintenance service (PMS), general mechanical repairs, detailing, body repairs, and insurance claims.
VinFast’s national dealership network now spans 36 locations, with additional openings planned for Fairview, Cagayan de Oro, Pasay City, Batangas City, and Kawit, Cavite. Customers benefit from battery subscriptions, residual value guarantees, and free charging at V-Green stations through March 31, 2029.
VinFast Philippines chief executive officer Rhomel Franco said: “With the opening of our Marikina showroom, we are proud to bring VinFast’s premier full-service experience closer to motorists in eastern Metro Manila. This reflects our commitment to making electric mobility more accessible while giving every VinFast owner the confidence that reliable support is always nearby.”
Xentro Motors OPC chief executive officer Noel Ignacio added: “Marikina has long desired a complete automotive destination for EV owners, and that’s exactly what this full-service facility intends to deliver. With specialized EV servicing, advanced repair capabilities, and comprehensive parts warehouse all under one roof, motorists in Eastern Metro Manila now have a convenient, one-stop option for exploring ownership in a VinFast vehicle.”
Check upcoming dealer locations at vinfastauto.ph.
BYD Sealion 6 DM-i marks 2nd year with drive-in cinema
BYD Cars Philippines celebrated the second anniversary of the BYD Sealion 6 DM-i by hosting an exclusive drive-in cinema event at Ayala Malls Trinoma. The gathering brought together over 60 PHEV owners who joined a multi-point convoy originating from BYD Manila Bay, BYD Sta. Rosa, and Shell Mobility Mexico (NLEX Pampanga).
The Sealion 6 DM-i, which features BYD’s Super DM-i plug-in hybrid technology delivering over 1,000 km of combined range, 5-star Ancap/Euro NCAP safety ratings, and vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities, serves a nationwide owner community of over 25,000 members. In partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), the event showcased the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival alongside other brand partners.
BYD Cars Philippines managing director Bob Palanca remarked: “Our BYD Sealion 6 owners are the true heartbeat of the brand. Every story they share, every new driver they welcome into the fold, and every kilometer they put on their Sealion 6 DM-i is a testament to the trust they’ve placed in us. We’re committed to matching that trust with exceptional, reliable after-sales support as this community continues to grow.”
Learn more about Super DM-i models at bydcarsphilippines.com.
Mitsubishi opens 1,700-sqm 3S dealership in Silang
Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp (MMPC), in partnership with Mizukawa Motors Corp (MZM), inaugurated Mitsubishi Motors Silang in Cavite. Situated on a 4,000-sqm property along E. Aguinaldo Highway, Lalaan 1st, the 1,700-sqm 3S facility houses a 6-vehicle showroom and 6 fully equipped service bays.
MMPC president and chief executive officer Ritsu Imaeda noted, “The opening of Mitsubishi Motors Silang dealership signifies our commitment to strengthen our network in areas with high growth potential to ensure that our customers have convenient access to Mitsubishi Motors’ latest vehicles and aftersales services.”
Reach the facility at 0917-827-3048 or josephadrian.bernal@bmg.com.ph.
Toyota Motor PH marks 38 years, targets 3M total sales
Toyota Motor Philippines Corp (TMP) marked its 38th corporate anniversary since its incorporation on Aug. 3, 1988, setting its sights on breaching the 3-million cumulative vehicle sales milestone later this year.
Operating out of its 82-hectare Toyota Special Economic Zone (TSEZ) in Santa Rosa City, Laguna, TMP has produced over 1.21 million completely knocked down (CKD) units locally. Producing the Vios, Innova, and revived Tamaraw, TMP recorded a production volume of 63,803 units in 2025. Supported by a direct workforce of 4,500 and an extended network of over 83,000 industry jobs, the Philippines ranks as Toyota’s 3rd largest market in Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and 10th largest globally.
During the anniversary, TMP president Masando Hashimoto planted a Molave tree—marking the 500,000th tree planted under the All Toyota Green Wave Project toward its 1-million tree target by 2030.
Hashimoto stated: “While oil prices and supply chain pressures remain volatile, we are seeing encouraging signs of market recovery, and we are steadily rebuilding our sales momentum. We are ready to respond with significantly better supply for our high-demand models. Now, success depends on execution.”
TMP chair Alfred V. Ty added: “As envisioned by our founding chairman Dr. George SK Ty, TMP’s core reason for being has always been nation-building. So, the vehicles we build—like our very own Tamaraw—are not just products; they are engines of mobility that empower small businesses, support families, and elevate everyday lives across our country. In turn, it enables TMP to provide stable, meaningful jobs, foster personal growth, and uplift thousands of Filipino households throughout the Toyota ecosystem. This is our purpose—to keep people at the center of everything we do.”
GAC launches GS4 MAX HEV, drives national sports marketing
GAC Philippines officially launched the GAC GS4 MAX HEV, a family-focused hybrid SUV combining a 2.0L Atkinson-cycle dedicated hybrid engine, 2-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT), and a 2.1 kWh NCM battery. The powertrain generates a combined 232 horsepower and 300 Nm of motor torque, delivering a total driving range of up to 1,250 km on a single tank.
Built on a 2,750 mm wheelbase and 1,901 mm wide profile, the GS4 MAX features zero-pressure perforated seats, flat-folding second-row seats, a panoramic glass roof, a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, Level 2 ADAS, and 8 airbags. Color choices include Planet Silver, Hoary Grey, and Crystal White, backed by introductory pricing through September 30, 2026.
Simultaneously, GAC Philippines partnered with Cignal TV and TV5 under its “Go Above Competition” campaign to integrate GAC vehicles into national broadcasts for the PBA Governors’ Cup, PVL, and UAAP Season 89 Men’s Basketball. GAC supports owners across 30 nationwide dealerships with 5-year/150,000 km basic warranties and 8-year/150,000 km battery and motor warranties for HEV/PHEV models.
GAC Philippines general manager Calvin Cheng said, “With the introduction of the GS4 MAX HEV, we are thrilled to offer modern Filipino families a high-value hybrid SUV that balances practical comfort, reliability, and exceptional efficiency. As we expand our SUV portfolio alongside the Emkoo, GS3 Emzoom, and GS8, the GS4 MAX HEV reinforces our commitment to providing uncompromised mobility solutions designed to elevate everyday life for growing households across the country.”
GAC International senior vice president Steven Wang added, “Bringing our global sports marketing tradition to the Philippines is an exciting step as we deepen our roots in the country. Sports embody energy, endurance, and relentless determination, which are values that lie at the very core of GAC’s brand DNA. Through this partnership with Cignal TV and TV5, we aim to inspire Filipino sports enthusiasts by bringing together the dynamic spirit of competition and our commitment to world-class mobility.”
Explore the lineup and book test drives at gacgroup.com/en-ph/test-drive.
Lexus PH launches enhanced UX hybrid, upgraded RZ BEV lineup
Lexus Philippines announced significant updates across its electrified crossover portfolio, rolling out the enhanced UX and upgraded RZ.
Model enhancements and variant pricing
Enhanced UX 300h:
UX 300h Premier (P2,958,000): Gains functional roof rails, wireless phone charging, a panoramic view monitor, and a multi-illumination entry system.
UX 300h F Sport (P3,508,000): Adds a two-tone exterior finish, black roof rails, a power moonroof, wireless smartphone charging, panoramic view monitor, enhanced side mirrors, and body-colored wheel arches.
Upgraded RZ Electric Crossover: Grade designations transition from RZ 300e and RZ 450e to RZ 350e (P4,438,000) and RZ 500e (P5,428,000). The flagship RZ 500e adopts an upgraded 74.69-kWh CATL battery boosting WLTC driving range to 460 km, with total output increasing from 313 PS to 380 PS. AC onboard charging capability doubles to 22 kW alongside standard CCS2 DC fast charging. Additional cabin appointments include a digital rearview mirror, integrated handle puddle lamps, and a rear-seat door logic reminder.
Inquire at the Lexus Manila Gallery, consult via Lexus Remote, or visit lexus.com.ph.