Multicab for Samal
I saw this GEM vehicle being toted around Spokane the other day, and it reminded of the multicab that I have interest in getting for the day when we finally live on the island. I’d seen something like this before but I thought they were only golf carts. The big difference here is the GEM is electric and costs a lot more than a multicab. Too bad about the cost, it could be a viable option in the Philippines.
The GEM (Global Electric Motorcars) vehicles have been around for awhile, and are in fact celebrating their 10th anniversary. They are a division of Chrysler. They come in a variety of models within the passenger and utility categories. You can outfit them with options galore. The GEM vehicles don’t move too fast, 25 mph tops, but then again you aren’t buying them for that, I hope. These are intended to be used locally, and of course the appeal is their use of electricity.
I really like the idea of a multicab for getting around Samal Island. I especially like the idea of a 4WD version. If I can get one of those and the Honda Ruckus, I’ll be set. I’m not interested in getting anything fancier at least initially. I prefer to acclimate to the driving in the Philippines with something not quite so expensive to repair if I inflict damage. I’m not worried about driving around Samal, but Davao will be a different experience for me.
These multicabs come in a variety of flavors but I like the little pickup type. I’m sure there are quite a few different manufacturers, but the one I’ve seen the most is Suzuki. I’ve not researched these thoroughly yet, and as I don’t intend to be there for many years there isn’t much need to. Much could change between now and then, but this looks like a good route to go at this point in time.
Hi Randy C – That GEM vehicle is cool! I wouldn’t mind having one myself!
Hi Bob – I think they’d be pretty fun for certain applications. Wouldn’t want to be using one of those as my mode of transportation over here right now
Check this one out, E-Trike.
Hi Pedestrian Observer – thanks for stopping by. The E-Trike is a very interesting item. My friend, Dave Starr, wrote a nice article regarding it here: There’s No Progess in the Philippines?
Interesting article, yeah the LTO just like any other agency in the Philippines due to red tape and corruption impedes progress in the Philippines.
They should realize that electric vehicle offers the best alternative and highly suited in the Philippine environment.
E-Trike seems to have no problem with the LTO approval, probably due to the support the inventor got from the governor in that province. The governor is known for pushing economic programs and of course being the Philippines having connections helps business people tremendously.
Hi Pedestrian Observer – I think the E. Tike has a real chance at success. It certainly wouldn’t hurt to have a few less pollutants going into the air. I guess the real issue will be the cost of the electricity and to some extent how well they hold up.
We sell some suzuki carry multicabs at a very reasonable price….
pick-up, minivan, etc…. save fuel with these cars
we can deliver to all major sea ports in the Philippines
The interesting thing with the E-Trike and others is that they are pretty much getting ignored but yet again another fund raiser came in with foreign money to come up with a solution to the Philippines automotive problems.
Main problem is not automotive but as the E-Trike discovered pure corruption that is hindering progress in many fields. Its a pity as I am sure there are a lot of vehicles that would be replaced if things were not only viable but possible.
Hi Matt – when it comes to gasoline powered vehicles and the gas that powers them, there is much to be suspicious about. Especially here in the US.