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Since its formal introduction in the Philippine market last November 2009, the Suzuki Skydrive has exceeded sales projections, confirming this revolutionary scooter’s appeal among Filipino riders. Small wonder, as the Suzuki Skydrive features an exciting futuristic design that is setting another trend in the motorcycle industry,

The Suzuki Skydrive’s development concept gives us clues to this scooter’s charisma. Taking on the challenge to design a scooter that would implement the most advanced technology features, the design team created a concept bike that was aerodynamic, very agile and comfortable with adjustable honeycomb-style seats. Two SD concept bikes were exhibited at the 2008 Bangkok Motor Show, and created a buzz with their revolutionary looks. Public perception judged the SD prototypes as the first-ever Japanese scooters that managed to dethrone the Italian style.

By 2009, Suzuki was ready to launch the mass market version, calling it the Suzuki Skydrive. It features a 125cc 4-stroke, air-cooled, E10 gasoline compatible, SOHC engine that can generate a total horsepower of 9.4ps @ 7500rpm. Optimal engine combustion is assured by the patented Suzuki Jet Cooling System (SJCS) and Pulsed Secondary Air Injection (PAIR) System. All these engine features are designed to make the Suzuki Skydrive the leader in performance and fuel economy.

Smooth acceleration was built into the Suzuki Skydrive through its aerodynamic styling, as well as its Super CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) system. The brake system consists of front hydraulic disc and rear drum brakes. The oil-damped suspension system features a telescopic coil spring for the front and swing-arm type for the rear. 14-inch alloy wheels add to the Skydrive’s sporty look, while a stylish muffler guard contributes to rider safety.

The new Suzuki Skydrive is a fusion of traditional excellence and innovative technology. Its head-turning looks bring together a sleek aerodynamic body marked by a revolutionary multi-reflector headlamp, sporty instrument panel, and convenient flat floor board. A magnetic key shutter provides added security and peace of mind for public parking, while an underseat compartment provides storage for personal items. Back riders will appreciate the die-cast rear footrest for more stable and comfortable riding.

The Suzuki Skydrive is being introduced at a very affordable P69,900 and is available in Pearl Mirage White, Candy Summer Red and New Titan Black.

Suzuki Bida Ang Toda campaign reaches out to tricycle drivers

On another note, Suzuki president Satoshi Uchida also announced that with the warm acceptance of the “Suzuki Mola Bira, Bida ang Toda” campaign among tricycle drivers and operators last year, the company will be going on another roadshow in partnership with its provincial dealers.

During the three-day campaign, tricycle drivers and operators are treated to a fiesta-like celebration which includes a stunt show, fun games, trike-khana challenge, a talent contest dubbed as Talentadong TODA, as well as a safety riding and preventive maintenance seminar.

Suzuki owners get free engine oil plus snacks and give-aways when they avail of the service campaign which includes free oil change and service check-up. Several test units of the Suzuki Mola 150 and Suzuki Mola 125 are also available for test rides.

According to Suzuki president Satoshi Uchida, “Because tricycles are the most common means of public transportation, especially in the provincial areas, we would like to reach out to tricyle drivers and operators through the Suzuki Mola Bira, Bida Ang Toda program. As transport operators, we want to help enhance their safety and preventive maintenance awareness through our seminars. At the same time, we want to show our appreciation by entertaining them with our games and contests.”

The Suzuki Mola Bira, Bida ang Toda campaign is set to visit the following cities in the coming months: May – Santa Cruz, Laguna; June – Tarlac, Tarlac; July – Tanuan, Batangas; August – Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija; October – Gapan, Nueva Ecija; November – Tuguegarao, Cagayan; December – Roxas City, Capiz.

Interested tricycle drivers and operators may see posters and print ads for details.

Motolite, the country’s leading automotive battery brand, recently unveiled its Moto-Art custom bike, an old Honda XRM motorcycle refurbished by Hardcore Brothers into a fully functional show and performance bike. First displayed at the Cebu motorcycle convention last March, the Motolite Moto-Art bike will be showcased in upcoming motorcycle events.

Starting out with a vintage Honda XRM 110cc, the Motolite Moto-Art bike was transformed into a shiny chrome beauty in a tribute to the great Japanese motorcycle builder/designer Chicara. To preserve the integrity of Honda motorcycle technology, the original 110cc engine was retained with stock Honda XRM parts used for the cases, heads, cylinders, carburetors and transmission. Stock Honda XRM parts were also used for the forks and foot controls, as well as the front and rear brakes.

To implement the creative vision, Hardcore Brothers took apart the rest of the bike and introduced a lot of modifications. The chassis was altered into a more rigid form, with wider 110/70/17 front and 120/80/17 rear tires. All electrical components were hidden and embedded into the frame for a clean, fluid look. The swing arm was extended four inches out. Buell triple trees were installed with an additional 5-degrees out to produce a longer rake on which a reversed handle bar was set up to create a look reminiscent of the café racer era. The solo saddle with bicycle springs as well as the kick starter were fabricated for an old-school look, while all-over chrome finishing gave the Motolite Moto-Art its distinctive flashy finish.

Taking almost two months to complete, the final specifications of the Motolite Moto-Art bike include the following Hardcore Brothers custom parts: air cleaner, gas tank, frame, seat and handle bars. It also features a Mity Mike exhaust, Drag Specialties “ET Dual” headlights, Japan LED taillight, and Buell trees.

According to Motolite product manager Melissa Valdez, “Our objective in this customization was to showcase ingenuity and innovation in transforming something ordinary into a work of art, while at the same time showing how our Motolite motorcycle battery is at the heart of the motorcycle’s engine and accessories. We are very proud of out Motolite Moto-Art custom bike because it is not only a thing of beauty, it is also a roadworthy performance bike which you can ride all over the Philippines.”

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.

Introduced in mid 2009 in the Philippines, the Suzuki Thunder 125 has shaken up the local motorcycle scene by carving out a new niche as a backbone city-sports bike. This trendsetter combines the sportiness of a street bike with the durability and comfort of a backbone motorcycle.

In motorcycle markets all over Asia, backbone recreation models and sporty street bikes are the hottest and latest trends, and Suzuki has positioned the Suzuki Thunder to be a strategic, class-leading model for the regional market. Top-of-the-line features, sporty styling in a backbone chassis, and a high-torque 125cc engine all combine to make the Suzuki Thunder into the epitome of a backbone city-sports bike.

“A small bike with a big bike feel” is how enthusiasts describe the Suzuki Thunder, whose target market is experienced male riders in their mid-30s who wish to level-up their daily ride. With its relatively larger size, this street bike is best-suited to mature riders who are capable of handling the Suzuki Thunder.

Powered by a 125cc engine, the Suzuki Thunder has a well-balanced combination of torque and power, while environment-friendly and fuel-efficient performance are delivered by its patented PAIR (pulsed secondary air injection) system. The backbone set-up ensures not only comfortable riding position but also optimum handling stability and maneuverability.

Giving the Suzuki Thunder that extra edge are superlative features such as integrated lower engine cowling, dynamic speedometer with gear indicator, lightweight alloy wheels, sporty muffler, electric/kick starter, and dependable front disc brake. The Suzuki Thunder is the perfect machine for city streets, where riding is an everyday adventure for motorcycle users in the urban setting.

Through its SAFE campaign, Suzuki is promoting a motorcycle lifestyle which is Safe, Active, Fashionable, and Easy-to-use. Committed to brining mobility to Filipino consumers, Suzuki Philippines hopes to contribute to the country’s progress and industrialization by introducing dynamic products and programs that harness the power of Suzuki’s exciting Way of Life.

It seems like the years have simply flown by and your baby is about to don graduation robes, marking the start of a new life-stage. He is now ready to face a more challenging world, whether he is going on to university, or looking to start his career as a young professional. And what better way to show your pride in his achievement by giving him the gift of mobility?

Combining world class design sensibilities with Suzuki’s vaunted compact car expertise, the Suzuki Alto and Suzuki Celerio are stylish urban vehicles that deliver excellent performance and reliability. University students and young professionals on a tight budget will be pleased with these sub-compacts’ performance as certified gas misers. In the Department of Energy’s annual Fuel Economy Run, a Suzuki Alto posted the best record in 2008 with 34-kilometers per liter. In 2009, a manual transmission Suzuki Celerio surpassed this feat, setting the best fuel consumption record at 34.34-km per liter.

Suzuki Alto: Best-Priced Starter Car

One of the most popular compact cars worldwide, the Suzuki Alto is recognized for its fuel efficiency, stability and affordability. It is powered by a sophisticated 796cc, 32-bit computer-controlled three-cylinder, 12-valve engine that delivers maximum output of 47hp at 6,200rpm and maximum torque of 62Nm at 3,000rpm. Its compact dimensions make the Suzuki Alto an extremely nimble and agile vehicle, with its small 4.6m turning radius giving it a definite advantage in tight parking spaces.

Comfortably seating four adults, the Suzuki Alto can be handily converted to carry small cargo through its 50-50 fold-down rear seats. Safety features are not compromised, with 3-point ELR seatbelts, third brake light, side impact beams and childproof rear door locks.

Available in two variants, the Suzuki Alto Deluxe and Suzuki Alto Standard sport a 5-speed manual transmission, McPherson strut with anti-roll bar on the front suspension and 3-link rigid suspension with coil spring on the rear, as well as front ventilated disc brakes and leading/trailing drum rear brakes. Designed for durability, these features allow the Suzuki Alto to deliver solid and reliable driving performance on Philippine road conditions.

Thoughtful amenities include an in-dash CD MP3 audio system, powerful airconditioning, a headlamp leveling device, front cupholders, and a cargo cover. Exterior features include multi-reflector halogen headlamps, multi-reflector taillights, and rear wiper-washer. The Suzuki Alto Deluxe variant also has electronic power steering, front power windows, power door locks, and color-keyed bumpers.

Possibly the most affordable Japanese sub-compact in the Philippine car market, the Suzuki Alto Deluxe and Standard come in superior white, dazzling red, and silky silver metallic. The Suzuki Alto Deluxe is priced at P408,000 and the Suzuki Alto Standard is priced at P369,000.

Suzuki Celerio : Couture Urban Vehicle

For the trendy young urbanite, the Suzuki Celerio is a couture compact car sporting a newly-developed 996cc K10B engine that delivers maximum output of 68hp at 6,000rpm and maximum torque of 90Nm at 4,800rpm, definitely enough power to safely zip through metro streets in style. A multipoint injection system to the lightweight aluminum engine ensures both fuel economy and low CO2 emissions.

Extensive road testing in Europe during its development phase resulted in coil springs and dampers tuned for optimum handling stability. Your graduate will surely enjoy the Suzuki Celerio driving experience, which is characterized by linear response, gentle roll movements, light steering feel, and good shock/vibration absorption. A 0.3 drag coefficient is the result of excellent aerodynamics, contributing to its excellent fuel efficiency.

Parents can take comfort in the assurance that 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 absorbs and disperses impact energy for 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, complete its safety features.

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.

Not common among one-liter cars, the Suzuki Celerio has a 4-speed automatic transmission variant, in addition to the 5-speed manual transmission model. Trendy color choices are sure to appeal to your graduate’s upbeat mood, with the following options: arctic white pearl metallic, silky silver metallic, desert brown metallic, fortune rose pearl metallic, and paradise blue pearl metallic.

For the parents, the best thing about the Suzuki Celerio is that it’s easy on the pocket, priced at P528,000 (MT) and P569,000 (AT). No wonder it was also voted by the Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI) as the winner of the “Best Value for Money” award in the 2009 Car of the Year (COTY) competitions.

Suzuki Philippines is the only integrated automotive company in the country, offering passenger cars commercial vehicles and motorcycles in its model line-up.

Celebrating 25 Years

Suzuki Philippines, Inc. (SPH), the country’s only integrated automotive company, celebrated its 25^th year in the country with simple ceremonies held at their head office and manufacturing plant at Bagong Ilog, Pasig City last February 5, 2010. This was followed by a tree-planting activity and company outing on February 6.

Formally opening the anniversary festivities, SPH president Satoshi Uchida’s inspirational message enjoined employees to “improve your sales, improve your job, so we can make Suzuki No. 1 in the world.” In the same vein, managing director Catalina Calderon presented the company’s five-year goals, starting with the battlecry to “Double Up in 2011.” An inspirational song entitled “Hataw Suzuki” was launched to boost employee morale. Sang by in-house talents, the anthem will be played during company events to remind everyone of their commitment to a shared vision.

Employee citations and service awards were also part of the anniversary celebration, with SPH senior manager for import-export Esperanza Custodio as the lone recipient for a 25-year service award.

To signal their long-term commitment to contribute to the Philippine economy, Suzuki partnered with the Haribon Foundation in a tree-planting activity at Barangay Cuyambay, Tanay Rizal. Dubbed “Suzuki Plants”, this activity symbolizes the company’s way of giving a gift that endures for a lifetime and makes a lasting difference for future generations. A company outing at Villa Lorenza, Pililla, Rizal capped the anniversary celebrations.

Suzuki motorcycles were first introduced in the Philippines in 1959 by Rufino D. Antonio & Associates, Inc., who handled nationwide distribution. In 1975, Antonio Suzuki Corporation was formed as a joint venture company to expand motorcycle sales. In 1985, Suzuki Motor Corporation of Japan took over operations, establishing Suzuki Philippines as a wholly-owned subsidiary, handling both manufacturing and distribution of Suzuki motorcycles.

In 1999, the company marked another milestone when it took over automobile operations from Pilipinas Transport Industries, Inc. (PTII), thus expanding its product line to include automobiles, and becoming the only integrated automotive company in the country carrying a full range of two-wheel and four-wheel product lines.

In its 25-year history, SPH has built a heritage of trust and reliability, with a loyal following of Suzuki owners who recognize the brand’s eminence as an innovator and trendsetter.

With a commitment to contribute to the national economy, SPH exported its first batch of Philippine-made Suzuki motorcycles to Guatemala in 1990. In line with the government’s program to establish backward linkages with allied companies, SPH continues to expand its localization program, sourcing as much as 45% local components for its tricycle models.

Faced with the challenges of globalization and free trade allowing importation of low-cost motorcycles, SPH is adopting a growth strategy focused on increasing both the solo-ride and tricycle segments. As the country continues to industrialize, Suzuki motorcycles will provide a safe, economical, convenient and fashionable means of transportation.

Suzuki automobiles enjoy a niche following among local car aficionados, and have earned accolades despite their relatively recent entry in the Philippine market. The Suzuki Celerio M/T posted the lowest fuel consumption of 34.34-km per liter in the 2009 E10 Fuel Economy Run of the Department of Energy. It was also named Best Value for Money in the 2009 Car of the Year (COTY) awards, while the Suzuki APV Type II was awarded the 2009 Best Compact People Carrier by C! Magazine.

SPH is committed to doing its share in accelerating the progress and industrialization of the country by introducing more dynamic products for both motorcycles and automobiles as well as programs for the Filipino motoring public harnessing the power of Suzuki’s Way of Life by providing them the best quality vehicles that offer not just ease in transportation, but lifestyle options as well.