Key business segments of Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), namely Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV) and Commercial Vehicles (CV), grew by 12% in the first nine months of the year or 11,659 units sold on the back of lower inflation, increased government spending, and a full line-up of quality SUVs, Vans, Trucks, and Buses.
The LCV segment continues to be the main growth driver for HARI. Compared to the same period in 2018, the first nine months of 2019 saw the LCV business expand by 9%, from 10,061 units to 10,972 units sold. This was fueled by the No. 1 subcompact SUV Kona and light truck H–100 whose sales grew by 128% and 52%, respectively. Sales of the premium mid-sized SUV – the Santa Fe – also grew by 9%.
HARI’s aggressive expansion into the Commercial Vehicle (CV) segment, marked by the establishment of more dedicated dealerships, has reaped dividends for the company. CV sales more than doubled from last year, hitting nearly 700 units sold. CV sales are expected to be boosted with the company’s strong participation in the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) through the Hyundai Modern Jeepneys. Recently, the Hyundai H-100 Class 1 Modern Jeepney and the Hyundai HD50S Class 2 Modern Jeepney received Certificates of Compliance (COC) from the DOTr.
“The Hyundai Modern Jeepney fuses Korea’s cutting-edge technology and Filipino ingenuity. We are always thinking of more innovative mobility solutions with the aim of making people’s lives easier,” HARI President and CEO Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo said.
Year-to-date September, sales of Passenger Cars (PC) hit 13,103 or a 15% decrease compared to the same period last year as the company continued to consolidate in this segment. The Company added that while there has been a marked change in consumer preference towards SUVs and MPVs, sales of Hyundai’s core PC models remain strong, driven by the Reina and the best-selling Accent. The two models alone account for over half of Hyundai’s sales.
“This year has been characterized by highs and lows as the automotive industry continues to recover. Beyond external factors, we believe that sales will only improve in the coming months as we introduce more products and services that are relevant to our customers while redefining vehicle ownership,” Ms. Perez-Agudo said.
Recently, Hyundai rolled out another industry first, the 5X5 campaign which offers the longest inclusive Preventive Maintenance Service (PMS) package (free 5-year PMS or up to 100,000km, whichever comes first) for every purchase of a Hyundai Tucson, Santa Fe, or Starex. This was followed by the Super Sais promo that provides free six months PMS for the H-100. The Hyundai H-100 is a versatile light truck that excels at transporting cargo and passengers alike, thanks to its powerful engine and wide wheelbase. Its 2.5L CRDi Euro 4 engine delivers cutting-edge fuel efficiency while adhering to standards of reduced emissions. Its payload capacity of 1,335 kilograms is among the best in its class. Its versatility means business owners can configure the H-100 to meet their unique needs. There are several variations including the passenger van, drop side, food truck, even the Class 1 Modern Jeepney. The H-100 will also stand the test of time since the rear shuttle body manufactured by HARI undergoes a 7-dip electrodeposition process to produce a durable and rust-proof coating.