Philippine government plans to modernise public fleets with Autogas jeepneys

In light of the imminent jeepney phase-out related to the government’s public utility vehicle (PUV) Modernisation Program, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) urged drivers to adopt LPG-powered and electric vehicles as viable alternatives to support sustainable transport fuel diversification.

DOST Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) Executive Director Dr. Enrico Paringit made this announcement as the government extends the deadline for the modernisation of jeepneys to 31 December 2023.

“The modernised vehicles will comply with regulations and will be in tune with the government’s thrust towards other alternative forms of mass transportation. We are optimistic that this upgrade will redound to greater benefits for our citizens,” he said.

The Autogas jeepney was developed by the University of the Philippines National Centre for Transportation Studies. The 18-seater modern vehicle can run both on LPG and gasoline. It ensures passenger safety and convenience as it features seat partitions to prevent passenger compression, distributed and easy access stop buttons, a rear emergency exit door, digital route signage, a cashless payment system, a CCTV camera system, and a dashcam.

It also includes a ramp that can be used to aid persons with disabilities to get on the vehicle, and provide passengers with a more spacious and comfortable ride, reducing stress caused by overcrowding.

Source: DOST

15 March 2023