Environment charter a key component for Suzuki product development

Recognizing the changing social circumstances surrounding its global operations, Suzuki Motor Corporation has issued a global environmental charter that clearly outlines its corporate policy to pass on to the next generation a clean environment and bountiful society. Aside from observing environmental laws, Suzuki has also taken the initiative of reducing the pressure placed on the environment by developing eco-friendly vehicles for the global market.
In all its product development efforts, Suzuki engineers are mandated to focus on: (1) improving fuel efficiency; (2) reducing exhaust emissions; (3) promoting the 3Rs – reduce, reuse, recycle; (4) managing and reducing materials with environmental impact; and (5) noise reduction.
Suzuki automobiles have earned a well-deserved reputation for fuel-efficient performance. These have been achieved through engine design, use of continuously variable transmission (CVT), reduced vehicle weight, and better aerodynamics. A new mini-vehicle launched abroad, the Suzuki Cervo SR was introduced with a direct injection intercooler turbo engine and a 7-speed CVT. This achieved emissions 75% lower than 2005 emission standards, the only mini turbo vehicle compatible with the green taxation plan. For its motorcycle models, Suzuki is starting to switch to electronically controlled fuel injection systems to optimize fuel management and reduce emissions for some models launched abroad.
To reduce vehicle weight, Suzuki R&D engineers have improved manufacturing methods to strengthen and reinforce body parts while controlling weight. High-tensile steel is used extensively in all Suzuki vehicles for lighter vehicles with better collision energy absorption. Alternator loads have been reduced to minimize electric power consumption for lamps and other electric components. Suzuki vehicles are also starting to incorporate fuel consumption indicators in their instrument panels to encourage drivers to implement fuel-efficient driving.
For its recycling efforts, Suzuki has succeeded in recycling used glass from end-of-life vehicles, considered a difficult challenge for many automotive manufacturers. This is in addition to extensive application of recyclable resin parts. Suzuki designers are also working to reduce or eliminate environmental impact materials such as lead, mercury, hexavelent chromium, and cadmium in Suzuki vehicles.
Another area that Suzuki is working on is in reducing traffic noise produced by vehicles, particularly those produced by the engine, transmission, intake and exhaust systems, etc. Suzuki vehicles are designed with sound insulation covers to prevent noise leakage.
At the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, Suzuki Motor Corporation exhibited several concept vehicles employing alternative energy sources, including the Burgman fuel-cell scooter, the SX4-FCV, the Swift Hybrid, and a fuel-cell personal mobility vehicle.
Global warming countermeasures, measures for reducing environmental impact substances and measures for recycling are some of the environmental issues that the Suzuki Group has dealt with over the past years. Establishing compatibility between environmental measures and future corporate growth is major managerial challenge for Suzuki. So that the costs of environmental measures are not passed on to consumers, Suzuki has vigorously conducted R&D as well as capital investments in order to provide products of even higher added value.
The Suzuki Group is composed of 177 companies, including sales-related subsidiaries, manufacturing-related subsidiaries, and non-manufacturing related subsidiaries. All Group companies are mandated to implement the Suzuki Global Environment Charter.

2009 Motolite-IRGP draws record field


The 3rd Annual Motolite-Inside Racing Grand Prix (IRGP) drew a record field of 95 motorcycle entries to the two-day event held at the Carmona Circuit Philippines last November 21-22, 2009. Sanctioned by the National Motorcycle Sports and Safety Association (NASSA), this GP-style annual spectacle also attracted a jampacked crowd of spectators.
After the dust had settled, the biggest winners were ace riders Johnlery Enriquez (Suzuki-Yoshimura), who took home the Castrol Power1 115GP trophy; Maico Buncio (YRS-Elf Moto Oil Racing), who topped the Castrol Power1 130GP; and Jaime Barcial (Castrol-Yamaha-Dudshop-Revzone), who captured the Gulf Oil Pride 4T Master’s Trophy for the second straight year.
According to Motolite vice-president for marketing Ernest Estrera, “This year’s Motolite-IRGP has attracted the best and most talented motorcycle racers in the country today. The increasing number of entries and spectators is also testament to the increasing popularity of motorcycles as an important mode of transportation among Filipinos. We are very happy to be part of this growing trend and commit to providing the best-value to support the needs of the riding community. We are also very happy to see the major motorcycle brands competing in these races, making motorcycle racing a very exciting and dynamic arena.”
Boasting of the latest advances in motorcycle battery technology, Motolite provides the growing number of motorcyclists in the country with safe, reliable and long-lasting batteries. Motolite’s 12-volt motorcycle batteries have been infused with Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) Technology for greater fluid retention and longer life. AGM technology also makes the batteries more versatile, as they can now be installed at any angle required by the make and model of the motorcycle – even upside down if needed.
The 3rd Annual Motolite-Inside Racing Grand Prix (IRGP3) was participated in by racing teams from the major motorcycle brands, particularly Suzuki, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Honda, Motorstar and Kymco, as well as privateers. Powered by Motolite batteries, it is also supported by Bridgestone Tires, Castrol Power1, Denso Spark Plugs, and Gulf Oil Pride 4T. Media partners include MotorcyclePhilippines.com, IRTV, Stoplight TV, The Racingline TV, Motorsiklo Xclusibo AM radio, Wave 89.1FM, MCPF.com, and PinoySpeed.
Motolite batteries are manufactured by Philippine Batteries, Inc. (PBI), the largest manufacturer, exporter and distributor of automotive, motorcycle and industrial battery products and solutions in the Philippines. Its fully integrated facility in Sta. Maria, Bulacan, is one of the largest and most modern battery manufacturing facilities in Southeast Asia. It also has the country’s only ISO 14001-certified, environmentally-compliant recycling facility, the second biggest in Asia.

Motolite receives Isuzu Zero-Delay Award

Recognizing its reliability as an OE (original equipment) supplier for local automotive manufacturing companies, Oriental-Motolite Marketing Corporation was the recipient of a “Zero-Delay” Award from Isuzu Philippines Corporation. The award was given during the Isuzu Supplier Conference and Christmas Party held last November 20, 2009, at Manila Southwoods in Carmona, Cavite.
Because of Just-in-Time manufacturing practices imposed by Japanese car manufacturers, the “Zero-Delay” award is a highly-valued recognition of Motolite’s capability to maintain timely deliveries based on the production schedule imposed by Isuzu. For the whole year of 2008, Motolite was able to deliver Isuzu’s automotive battery requirements according to schedule. This is the second consecutive year that Motolite has received the “Zero-Delay” Award for its excellent delivery performance.
Motolite automotive batteries are designed using state-of-the art technology and are manufactured under the strictest standards. Motolite batteries carry the assurance of trusted dependability and long service life, as well as reliable performance even in extreme road and driving conditions. They also have patented Tropicalized® technology to withstand our hot weather.
Motolite batteries are manufactured by Philippine Batteries, Inc. (PBI), the largest manufacturer, exporter and distributor of automotive, motorcycle and industrial battery products and solutions in the Philippines. Its fully integrated facility in Sta. Maria, Bulacan, is one of the largest and most modern battery manufacturing facilities in Southeast Asia. It also has the country’s only ISO 14001-certified, environmentally-compliant recycling facility, the second biggest in Asia.

SUZUKI APV: The perfect Yuletide vehicle

Looking for the perfect vehicle to meet all your Yuletide needs? The Suzuki APV Type II—voted as 2009 Best Compact People Carrier by local automotive publication C! Magazine—has the features and specifications that will make your Christmas merrier.
Need to give a ride to transport everyone to the ancestral home in the province for the annual family reunion? The Suzuki APV Type II comfortably seats 7 to 8 adults, with room to spare for luggage, gifts or potluck goodies.
Need to meet a balikbayan cousin and his family from the airport? The Suzuki APV Type II can take in large-sized luggages or as much as 4 of balikbayan boxes when the third row seats are folded.
Need to run around town to deliver your Christmas gifts to business associates, friends and relatives? The Suzuki APV Type II turns into a virtual Santa’s sleigh, with lots of space for all the tinsel-wrapped packages for the important people in your life.
For OFWs who want to give their family a lovely Christmas present, the Suzuki APV Type II is the most affordable, all-purpose vehicle—a sound investment for long-term value and convenience all year round.
Indeed, the Suzuki APV Type II is a versatile vehicle that can be all things to all people. Powered by a 1.6-liter 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine, this all-purpose vehicle delivers a maximum of 91hp @ 5750rpm and maximum torque of 127Nm @ 4500rpm. Multipoint fuel injection optimizes fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.
To ensure riding comfort, the Suzuki APV Type II is equipped with McPherson strut and coil spring front suspensions paired with 3-link rigid axle with coil spring rear suspensions. Responsive ventilated front disk brakes and rear drum brakes make for a safer, more secure ride. Other safety features include two 3-point ELR seatbelts for all three rows, plus a center lapbelt for the second and third row seats. SRS airbags and anti-lock brakes are added options for the higher-end SGX variant.
Seating configuration on the Suzuki APV Type II is three-rows. The first row consists of two sliding/reclining seats with passenger assist and access support grips. The second row consists of two sliding/reclining captain’s seats with individual armrests on the SGX variant and a reclining bench seat with center armrest on the basic GLX model. The last row is a full-size bench seat with center armrest for all models. The middle and last row bench seats have split-fold and tumble specifications, so that seating and luggage space can be configured depending on your needs. Seat material is a plush beige fabric that adds a touch of class to the APV.
The value proposition for the Suzuki APV Type II is enhanced by a host of convenience features that are a pleasant surprise for such an affordably-priced vehicle. Power steering, power door locks, power windows, power side mirrors, and keyless entry come standard. Dual airconditioning ensures a cool ride for all passengers, while a two-din audio system with AM/FM tuner, cassette player, in-dash CD/MP3 player, and 6 speakers provides entertainment on the road.
The Suzuki APV Type II comes in three variants—the GLX 5-speed MT model,priced at P 735; the SGX 5-speed MT at P 775; and the SGX 4-speed AT at P 810k.
Outside of the Philippines, the Suzuki APV Type II has also won acclaim in Indonesia, topping the J.D. Power Asia Pacific 2009 Indonesia Initial Quality Survey (IQS) in the entry-MPV segment.
Suzuki Philippines is the only integrated automotive company in the country, offering motorcycles, passenger cars and commercial vehicles in its model line-up. Suzuki automobiles are available through a network of 18 dealers nationwide.

Suzuki Celerio registers 34-km/li in DOE run; wins COTY value-for-money award

The Suzuki Celerio with Manual Transmission (MT) posted the lowest fuel consumption in the 2009 E10 Fuel Economy Run conducted by the Department of Energy (DOE) last November 27, 2009. Running under controlled conditions, a Suzuki Celerio MT registered an average fuel consumption of 34.34-km/liter on the 317-km run using E10-blended 93-octane gasoline from the DOE office in Taguig City to Subic, Olongapo City and back. Last year, Suzuki also delivered exceptional fuel efficiency performance at the DOE Fuel Economy run with the Suzuki Alto posting 34 km/liter.

In a separate development, the Suzuki Celerio also received the “Best Value for Money” award at the 2009 Car of the Year (COTY) Awards of the Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI), held last November 26, 2009.

Powered by a newly-developed 996cc K10B engine with 12-valve, 3-cylinder configuration, the Suzuki Celerio delivers maximum output of 68hp at 6,000rpm and maximum torque of 90Nm at 4,800rpm. Fuel distribution to the lightweight aluminum engine is via multipoint injection, ensuring superior fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. It has a low drag of 0.3 which enables it to slice through the wind.

During its development phase, the Suzuki Celerio was road-tested extensively in Europe, resulting in a driving experience characterized by linear response, gentle roll movements, light steering feel, and good shock/vibration absorption.

Enhancing the Suzuki Celerio's value proposition is a host of practical features. Electronic power steering, power door locks, front power windows, and keyless entry system are some of the convenience features. Audiophiles will appreciate the integrated audio system with MP3 capability auxiliary input and 6-speakers. Built-in front foglamps and 14" wheels with full wheel cap add to its sporty and stylish package.

More value-added features include a functional instrument panel that incorporates a dash-mounted tachometer and digital trip meter. A host of storage spaces such as front cup holders and rear door bottle holders, front/rear door pockets accommodate all the necessary driving gear. When needed, the rear seats fold down for additional luggage space.

Despite its compact proportions, the Suzuki Celerio was designed with ultimate passenger safety in mind. Using Suzuki's Total Effective Control Technology (TECT), a strong cabin structure that absorbs and disperses impact energy ensures a high-level of occupant safety. Dual front airbags and energy-absorbing materials provide further protection.

The Suzuki Celerio is also equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) with Brake Assist (BA). A tailgate-mounted high-mount stop lamp, 3-point ELR seatbelts for both front and rear seats, and child seat anchorage complete its safety features.

The Suzuki Celerio is available in the following colors: Arctic White Pearl Metallic, Silky Silver Metallic, Desert Brown Metallic, Fortune Rose Pearl Metallic, and Paradise Blue Pearl Metallic. Competitively priced at P528,000 (MT) and P569,000 (AT), the Suzuki Celerio is an award-winning vehicle that offers fuel efficient performance with eco-friendly and value-added features.

The Department of Energy (DOE) has been conducting fuel economy runs since 1992 to advocate the efficient utilization of fuel by applying fuel efficient driving techniques, demonstrate the important role the driver plays in achieving substantial reduction in fuel consumption and maintenance cost, provide vital information on the fuel economy rating performance of different brand new vehicles, and make comparative analysis with the data obtained from the run. For the first time, this year’s run was powered by an E10-blended 93 octane gasoline.

Although not a competition, the DOE Fuel Economy Run is an excellent reference for consumers and motorists, giving an unbiased fuel economy rating, since vehicles submitted by car manufacturers are subjected to the same driving and road conditions.

The Car of Year Awards (COTY) is given in various categories by the Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI), an award-giving body composed of motoring journalists. COTY awards are given after a series of technical and subjective evaluations of new vehicle models introduced in the Philippine market every year.

Enjoy high-definition videos with CinemaTube

Did you go out and buy that LCD TV, with the expectation that you would now be able to enjoy high-definition, theater-quality videos in the comfort of your living room? And did you find out, to your dismay and frustration, that your old DVD player does not produce high-definition output?

You then discover that to get true high-definition video, you would need to invest in a Blu-Ray disc player and Blu-Ray discs to enjoy clear pictures — and at current prices, you’re not willing to shell out the extra bucks. So you resign yourself to watching inferior picture quality on your expensive television set.

With the introduction of the new CinemaTube from Brite-View, you can now enjoy the full high-definition capability of your cutting-edge, high-end TV at a price that’s a fraction of other HD players. The CinemaTube makes CDs and DVDs obsolete, as it allows you to enjoy digital entertainment on your large screen TV. You can plug in your USB drive and watch the latest movies or view a photo slide show set to music in crisp, high-resolution quality.

An excellent value-for-money proposition, the CinemaTube boasts features that will delight home video enthusiasts. Purists will be delighted with its full high-definition video resolution, delivering Blu-Ray quality videos. Digital audio capability (Dolby Digital and Digital Theater Systems support) ensure high-definition sound for a total entertainment experience. And because the CinemaTube is the ultimate media transformer, it is able to decode virtually all types of video-audio formats so you don’t need to worry about compatibility. For the ordinary consumer who just wants to luxuriate in an excellent home theater experience, this means you simply link a media source like a USB drive to the CinemaTube, plug it in to your HDTV — and enjoy.

The CinemaTube has a built-in ethernet port that allows you to stream media content from your computer to the TV. Or, taking it a techie notch higher, you can watch internet and PC content on your TV by connecting the CinemaTube to your home network.

Another feature that makes the CinemaTube a must-have is its energy-efficient torrent download capability. Consuming only 10-watts of electricity when downloading, you can hook up the CinemaTube to your network router and leave it to download your favorite torrents to a USB storage device.

Product support is assured through online firmware updates from the Brite-View site to keep your CinemaTube unit in-synch with the latest technical developments. This ensures that your CinemaTube investment is not wasted when fresh upgrades become available.

Unleash the power of your high-definition TV with a feature-packed media transformer/player without burning a hole in your pocket. The CinemaTube retails for a very affordable introductory price of P6,350 at the following computer shops and home theater stores: Accent Micro, PC Express, The Electronic Boutique, Microstation, PC Live, The Home Theater, TheaterWorks, Gogadgets, Listening in Style, Listen Up, Eyo Sales and Technologies, Gadgets in Style and Listening Room.
The CinemaTube is a product of Brite-View, a brand owned by Zinnet USA. Based in Los Angeles, Zinnet designs and manufactures consumer electronics for a digital lifestyle. Brite-View offers tech-savvy users the ultimate home entertainment experience through its user-friendly HD multi-media players and wireless HDMI transmission solutions.

In the Philippines, the CinemaTube is distributed exclusively by Omega Supreme Enterprise. Interested dealers may contact sales@digilivingph.com or call (02) 9754677. For more details, please visit www.digilivingph.com and www.brite-view.com.

Suzuki Shogun R125: Multi-purpose family bike

Are you thinking of investing your Christmas bonus on a practical ride that will ease your daily commute and also be useful for the entire family? The Suzuki Shogun R125 is a multi-purpose family bike that combines both speed and comfort, without sacrificing good looks and value-packed features.

The Suzuki Shogun R125 is equipped with a 125cc engine that delivers increased acceleration performance, improved fuel efficiency, and low exhaust emission. The high-quality engine is further enhanced with an engine decompressor and engine balancer, giving the rider complete control of a superior, power-packed engine.

Sure to stand out with its well-defined body, the Suzuki Shogun R125 is built to offer a sturdier and more reliable ride. Its compact chassis, high-rigidity frame, durable front suspension and low-height seat assure you of a safe riding experience.
A large underseat storage compartment offers enough space to store personal items, while electric and kick starters provide quick-start ignition. A sporty headlight and stylish rear LED lamps emphasize the Suzuki Shogun R125’s edgy stealth design, which are further enhanced by sporty decals.

Thanks to its value-packed features, the Suzuki Shogun R125 is set to offer a most satisfying ride for all family members, with its combination of convenience and style in one exciting package.

The Suzuki Shogun R125 comes in Titan Black, Autumn Red/Titan Black, Macho Bright Blue/Titan Black. It retails for a very affordable P59,900.00.

Suzuki Apparel

Suzuki motorcycle dealers now also carry a full range of Suzuki-branded riding gear and apparel such as safety helmets, luggage boxes, bags, caps, riding jackets, riding pants, sports shirts, t-shirts, umbrellas, and key chains. All gear and apparel carry the Suzuki logo and are very reasonably priced. Suzuki enthusiasts will appreciate these specially-branded gear and will be able to wear the Suzuki colors with pride. Visit your nearest Suzuki motorcycle 3S shop and pick out the perfect gift for that special someone or for yourself from a wide selection of Suzuki-branded riding gear.

With its commitment to bring mobility to Filipino consumers, Suzuki Philippines is the only integrated motoring company carrying both automobile and motorcycle products under one roof. Its manufacturing philosophy is grounded on providing value-packed, high-quality products offering both reliability and originality.

Globally, Suzuki employs over 45,000 people, has over 40 main production facilities in 23 countries, and distributors in 192 countries. Suzuki R&D efforts cover a wide range of the latest advances in energy, environment, electronics, communication, information and control applications — all devoted to creating products what will meet the challenges of the next generation.

Motolite rider Resuello moves up to Superbike class

Motolite rider Raniel Resuello, in his first exposure to big bike competition, has once again proven his mettle by copping the Overall 1st Runner-Up title in the 2009 Superbike Championship Novice Class. Resuello’s ride as a novice superbike racer is a 2009 Ducati 848.

The 19-year old motorcycle racer established his mark in the local racing scene when he completed the 2008 season as champion of the San Mig Coffee Underbone King Championship Series 125cc Open Class and the National Racing Association’s 12-Hour Endurance Race 125cc Stock Production Class.

A native of Tanay, Rizal, Resuello entered the motorcycle racing circuit when he was only 15 years old, earning a podium finish on his first race as 3rd placer in the 125 Novice class of the 1st Bulacan Circuit Racing Group. In 2007 Resuello finished first place in the 125 sports production class in the final leg of the San Mig Coffee Philippine Underbone King Championship. In 2006, he was a member of the Philippine team, which competed in the Yamaha Asean Cup at Jakarta, Indonesia. He also had a brief exposure to big bike racing, winning the 1st Runner-Up title in the 400 Unlimited organized by the National Racing Association (NRA) Motorcycle Grand Prix Championship in 2006.

“Motolite is very pleased at Raniel’s excellent performance in the superbike class, considering that this is just his novice year,” Ernest Estrera, vice-president for marketing, exclaims. “Once again, he has proven the superiority of Motolite batteries in the high-speed, high-performance world of racing. Motolite is also happy to support someone we believe is an excellent role model for the youth.” Estrera also notes that aside from being a top racer at such a young age, Resuello is also a studious and hardworking college student at Centro Escolar University, studying for a bachelor’s degree in Nursing. The young Raniel ambitiously hopes to become a talented medical surgeon and a Moto GP racer in the near future.

Boasting of the latest advances in motorcycle battery technology, Motolite provides the growing number of motorcyclists in the country with safe, reliable and long-lasting batteries. Motolite’s 12-volt motorcycle batteries have been infused with Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) Technology for greater fluid retention and longer life. AGM technology also makes the batteries more versatile, as they can now be installed at any angle required by the make and model of the motorcycle – even upside down if needed.

Motolite batteries are manufactured by Philippine Batteries, Inc. (PBI), the largest manufacturer, exporter and distributor of automotive, motorcycle and industrial battery products and solutions in the Philippines. Its fully integrated facility in Sta. Maria, Bulacan, is one of the largest and most modern battery manufacturing facilities in Southeast Asia. It also has the country’s only ISO 14001-certified, environmentally-compliant recycling facility, the second biggest in Asia.

Motolite continues long-term support for Pacquiao

True to its “Pangmatagalan” tag-line, Motolite has been a strong Pacquiao supporter since 2002 when he fought Hector Velasquez.

Pacquiao’s recent win over Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto has earned for Pacquiao his seventh world championship, making him the first boxer to win seven world titles in seven weight divisions. Despite his relatively smaller physique, Pacquiao’s speed and power are acclaimed in the boxing world, many calling him the “greatest pound-for-pound boxer of all time.”

Ernest Estrera, Motolite vice-president for marketing, notes: “We share with the entire Filipino nation the pride and glory of this latest historic achievement of our ‘pambansang kamao’. Ever since Manny started his rise to glory 7 years ago, Motolite has been there to support him because we believe that he embodies many of the values and vision that our company holds dear. As a Filipino company, Motolite has succeeded in being No. 1 in the automotive battery industry despite the presence of foreign competition, and we have achieved this by delivering the best-value products in the market. We congratulate Manny once again on his success and will continue to be proud supporters in his future endeavors.”

Motolite batteries are manufactured by Philippine Batteries, Inc. (PBI), the largest manufacturer, exporter and distributor of automotive, motorcycle and industrial battery products and solutions in the Philippines. Its 18-hectare fully integrated facility in Sta. Maria, Bulacan, is one of the largest and most modern battery manufacturing facilities in Southeast Asia. It also has the country’s only ISO 14001-certified, environmentally-compliant recycling facility, the second biggest in Asia.

Suzuki holds auto dealer conference, reports 10% sales growth

Gearing up for the coming year, Suzuki Philippines Inc. held a national dealer conference for its automotive dealers at the Diamond Hotel in Manila last November 19, 2009. Appropriately entitled “On The Road To Success”, the conference included a review of year-to-date business performance, serving as inputs for 2010 business planning activities.

Vehicle Sales

One of the highlights during the conference was the marketing report which reflected Suzuki’s 10.8% increase in year-to-date sales of 2,078 units from Jan-Oct 2009, as compared to the same period in 2008. The positive sales growth classifies Suzuki with four other car brands to have posted increased sales in spite of the economic crisis, while the majority of other players suffered a constriction in number of units sold.

Suzuki passenger cars registered a 2.8% market share on sales of 1,067 units, placing Suzuki in the 7th spot well ahead of the other manufacturers/distributors in this category. In the same period, Suzuki was one of only two brands which posted growth in passenger car sales. Next year, Suzuki is aiming for the 4th position in this category. Meanwhile, in the highly competitive commercial vehicle category, Suzuki gained 15.5% increase in sales, selling 1,011 units for a 1.5% market share in 9th spot. Next year, Suzuki is targeting to hit and exceed the number 8 position in this category.

With the announcement of exciting plans for 2010 new model introductions, company officials expressed optimism that Suzuki would further strengthen its market position in the local automotive industry.

Top Dealers

Suzuki Philippines uses a balanced score card system for rating dealer performance in sales, parts and service, with points awarded for various criteria. With three quarter evaluations already completed, Suzuki announced the preliminary leaders for the Top Dealer award, with Suzuki Auto Laguna, Suzuki Auto Kalookan, and Suzuki Auto Cebu in the running for the sales category, and Suzuki Auto Kalookan, Suzuki Auto Cebu and Suzuki Auto E. Rodriguez vying for the top spot in the service category.

Also discussed during the dealer conference were changes in reporting procedures with emphasis on paperless communications. Currently, Suzuki has 18 auto dealerships nationwide catering to the needs of the public for Suzuki vehicle sales, genuine parts and reliable service.

Bestsellers

The Suzuki APV Type II SGX , a 7-seater family van, was recently chosen as the “2009 Compact People Carrier of the Year” by local automotive publication, C! Magazine. The Suzuki Alto, meanwhile, has recorded worldwide sales of 10-million units, and is the best-selling car in India with an average of 20,000 units sold monthly.

AVT Navigator P820

Has comprehensive Philippine maps for 110 key cities; 40,000 points-of-interest


AVT, the premiere provider of trendsetting, high-quality mobile audio-video systems, has introduced the new AVT Navigator P820, marking a significant upgrade to the Philippines' first portable GPS navigation system. Launched earlier this year, AVT Navigator GPS devices quickly gained strong market acceptance with the most updated maps not only of Metro Manila but many of the country's key cities and major travel destinations — a service that could not be matched by other, more well-known brands. Comprehensive iNAV map coverage now includes 40,000 points of interest and close to 100% of road networks for Metro Manila, as well as updated maps for 110 key cities in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

With its latest offering, the new AVT Navigator P820 features a high-resolution touch-screen color display, SD/MMC card slot, multimedia functionality, and voice-prompt technology. Backed by superior Japanese technology, the AVT Navigator P820 is equipped with a powerful Centrality ARM926T AT 4X04 CPU that is able to quickly position the device and plot alternative routes based on the user's preference. The new AVT Navigator P820 is extremely portable, and can be set-up in any car in minutes. Users can also add favorite locations and set their home location, so coming back from unfamiliar places shouldn’t present a problem.

Aside from the upgraded hardware, the new AVT Navigator P820 is served by a stronger local support team with the recent incorporation of iNAV from OE Works Manufacturing Inc., a subsidiary company devoted exclusively to updating and verifying the maps loaded on AVT navigation devices.

AVT navigation systems project team leader William Chong, who is intimately involved in the development process notes, "Our company was the first to make a strategic commitment to a Philippine-based GPS navigation system. First, we invested in developing the equipment with our AVT Navigator devices. Now, through the iNAV, we have made another major long-term investment in our proprietary software and navigation technology to ensure the most accurate and updated maps. With our dedicated mapping team, we now have people on the ground all over the country, continuously updating our map information. We believe it is this commitment to local support that sets us apart from other brands. Filipino IT workers are valued all over the globe for their technical skills and creative solutions — we are harnessing this talent to create the leading GPS navigation system customized for Philippine road conditions.”

The new AVT Navigator P820 is very reasonably priced, allowing users to experience this ultimate time-saving tool for reaching unfamiliar destinations at a price that won’t break the bank. AVT navigation devices have received the thumbs-up from leading local car manufacturers, and is factory-installed as OE (original equipment) for high-end models such as the Ford Everest, Nissan Patrol, Mitsubishi Galant, and Isuzu Alterra.

AVT (which stands for Audio-Video Technology) specializes in premium audio-visual entertainment systems for mobile applications. It offers a wide range of in-car mobile electronics, including display monitors, DVD players, digital and analog terrestrial receivers, sound processor/high-power amplifiers, specialist speakers, and AV controllers and accessories to suit all types of in-vehicle installations. For the mobile entertainment market, it also carries all-in-one LCD DVD players in various screen sizes to meet every budget and application. Aside from consumer products which retail in car dealer accessories shops, AVT is also an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for many of the country’s leading car brands. iNAV is a subsidiary company dedicated to providing mapping support exclusively for AVT navigation devices.