Philippines step on the GAZ

Decades of tradition

GAZ may be a name familiar to those living in post-communist countries, but even then it's associated with Volga passenger cars rather than commercial vehicles. Still, GAZ remains to this day the largest manufacturer of vans, small passenger buses and all sorts of trucks (light-, medium- and heavy-duty ones) in Russia. Now a range of the company's models, including LPG-powered variants of the GAZelle Next, will be offered in Philippines by a local distributor – GAZelle Motors Corp.

The start of sales of multi-functional, reliable and eco-friendly GAZelle Next minibuses is the first stage of our entry to the Philippine market. I am sure that together with such a strong partner as GAZelle Motors Corp., we will be able to quickly and confidently develop in this market.

Christian Kramer, SVP for Sales and Marketing of GAZ Group

© GAZA range of GAZelle Next vans has been showcased in Manila recently. Apparently, demand is quite high already - let's hope customers will opt for the LPG versions rather than diesels

A variety of versions

The GAZelle Next in autogas guise is motivated by a 2,7-litre multipoint port injection engine that produces 104 PS/219 Nm in LPG mode and 107 PS/220 Nm when running on petrol. There are three body styles available: the LCV with seating for 17 passengers, a panel van with three seats and plenty of cargo space and the Citiline minibus, with 19 seats (including the driver's), a mechanised door and stop request buttons for passengers.

GAZ is expanding

GAZelle Motors Corp. will establish 5 dealer centres throughout the country to provide sales and after-sale services of GAZ vehicles. Additionally, local partner companies will operate a network of 35 authorised maintenance stations. Seems like Philippines are seriously stepping on the GAZ!