The Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Modernization Program will be launched by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in Tacloban City on December 15.
Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Region 8 announced that the PUV modernization program will be launched with 45 new franchises for eJeepneys to be available for interested applicants who are organized into a transportation cooperative with Fleet Management System.
DOTr photo
Star8 Green Technology Corp will be the initial supplier of eVehicles. The program will also be open to any other interested qualified suppliers.
Each Star8 eJeepney can carry 20 passengers and has free wifi onboard. The eJeepney also has LED TV onboard for ads or movies.
Star8 eJeepney has a unit price of PHP1.6 million with DOTr providing subsidies. It has 3 years warranty.
It will be able to cover 120 kilometers per full charge. Solar panel installed on roof may be able to charge batteries and extend operational range beyond 120kms during daytime operations.
The transition period starting will be 2 to 3 years starting 2018 to give existing old fuel PUJs time to be phased out.