At the Kabaleyan Cove Resort in Brgy. Magtaking, San Carlos City, on August 8th, Sojitz Fuso Philippines Corporation (SFP), which serves as the primary distributor for FUSO trucks, buses, and modern public utility vehicles (PUVs) in the Philippines, officially handed over a total of 10 Canter Commute Class 2 PUV units to the Extreme Dagupan Pangasinan Transport Corporation (EDPTC).
The recently acquired Canter Commute modern PUVs are slated for deployment along the loops of Dagupan City and San Carlos City. With the collaboration between SFP and its dealer, HMEN Motors – FUSO Pangasinan, the partnership with EDPTC highlights the attributes of the FUSO Modern PUV, encompassing its well-established quality, durability, and robust performance.
Jointly crafted by SFP and Almazora Motors Corporation, the Canter Commute stands as an air-conditioned Class 2 public utility vehicle capable of seating 20 individuals in side-facing arrangements, with room for an additional 10 standing commuters.
Engineered in direct accordance with the specifications outlined by the Philippine National Standards, the Class 2 Canter Commute operates with a clean and fuel-efficient Euro V-compliant 3.0-liter engine, capable of achieving remarkable fuel economy and heightened efficiency.
In addition to meeting Philippine Standards and Euro emissions, the FUSO Modern PUVs come complete with essential features mandated by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). These include Closed Circuit Televisions (CCTVs) and recorders, Wi-Fi connectivity, a GPS tracking system, LED route signage, and an LCD monitor, all designed to provide additional passenger safety and convenience.
For those not familiar with the PUV classification system and where the Fuso Canter Commute is positioned, here’s a quick overview of the system. According to the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the modern PUV is classified into three classes. Class 1 PUVs are designed to accommodate nine to 12 passengers, making them suitable for navigating narrow barangay, municipal, or provincial roads. Due to their size and affordability, they present a viable option for regions with lower transportation demand.
For the present, Class 2 and 3 PUVs (with a maximum seating capacity of 23 passengers) are the primary choices in replacing traditional jeepneys. Class 2 retains the familiar jeepney seating configuration, but also offers an increased ceiling height that allows average-sized Filipinos to stand comfortably within.
Conversely, Class 3 vehicles adopt a forward-facing layout. These units serve as mandatory replacements for all UV express services. Their seating arrangement is conducive to point-to-point routes, fostering a more relaxed travel experience. Despite their front-facing design, these vehicles are mandated to maintain a central aisle and adhere to specific width measurements. The central aisle and width measurements are there to prevent the cramped conditions prevalent in the UV express vans we utilize today.
The Fuso Canter Commute must adhere to these stringent guidelines making its deployment to Dagupan City a big improvement for commuters over there.
