Automotive distributor United Asia Automotive Group Inc (Uaagi) is now the official distributor of BAIC (Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co Ltd) in the Philippines, announcing the news during an exclusive preview for the motoring media, bankers, and dealer partners. BAIC Philippines’ dynamic lineup of SUVs and crossovers took center stage, introduced by members of Uaagi’s executive leadership team and principals from BAIC’s global headquarters.
The preview event was held at the Palacio de Memoria in Parañaque City—a grand venue fit for BAIC Philippines’ formidable roster of vehicles. On display were five new models: The B40 Ragnar, B80 Wagon, and B60 Beaumont (diesel hybrid)—all of which are true body-on-frame, 4-wheel drive, diesel- and gas-powered turbocharged SUVs that displace anywhere from 2 to 3 liters, while producing impressive torque figures ranging from 380Nm to 420Nm; and the BAIC X55 Verve and the X7 Grandeza, which are both petrol-powered, monocoque-bodied crossovers which feature 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engines producing 305 Nm of torque.
Indicative prices for the new models from BAIC Philippines are: B40 Ragnar (P2,400,000); B60 Beaumont (P3,200,000); B80 Wagon (P4,500,000); X55 Verve (P1,400,000), and; X7 Grandeza (P1,700,000).
Spearheading BAIC Philippines’ introduction into the local market were managing director Froilan Dytianquin, chief marketing executive Lyn Manalansang Buena, and BAIC brand head and general manager Christopher David Yu, under the leadership of chair Rommel L. Sytin.
“We are proud to reveal our lineup of the world-class BAIC models and are confident that the Philippine market will appreciate the standout features and design of these first-rate SUVs and crossovers,” Sytin said.
BAIC Philippines’ brand tagline “Dare to Drive Big” has propelled BAIC onto the world stage, with over 360 sales and service outlets in more than 30 countries worldwide, including Southeast Asia, Central and West Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Central and South America, and Europe. BAIC, established in 1958 in China, also ranks 162nd in the Fortune 500 list of companies, and is the third largest automotive company in China.
BAIC vehicles are made in the company’s fully robotized plants in Shunyi, Beijing. And while both 4×4 and crossover offerings are formidable under the hood, they are likewise stylish and awash in modern comfort, safety, and convenience features. These include large touchscreen displays, automatic power tailgates, automatic LED headlamps, cruise control, smart key entry, power-adjustable seats, LCD instrument panels, panoramic sunroofs, and leather seats, among others. BAIC models also feature multiple airbags as well as a full suite of advanced electronic driver-assist systems, and sophisticated four-wheel drive systems.
BAIC Philippines’ agile product lineup caters to the gamut of discerning, Filipino car buyers. From weekend warrior executives who need a big and powerful 4×4 SUV that’s sure footed in both on- and off-road situations; to young, urban professionals in the market for a stylish and fully equipped crossover.
“We are confident that BAIC vehicles, with their cutting-edge technology and exceptional quality, will resonate deeply with Filipino drivers. And we are excited to introduce BAIC Philippines and its full range of robust, modern, and rugged SUV options today, in anticipation of their debut at the 2024 Manila International Auto Show. We can’t wait for Filipinos to experience the features and capabilities of these exceptional SUVs firsthand,” said Dytianquin.
BAIC Philippines’ grand public launch is at the 2024 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) from April 4 to 7 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
The BAIC Philippines dealership and service network will be announced soon. For more info, visit BAIC Philippines’ Facebook (BAIC Philippines) and Instagram (@baicph) pages.