‘E-jeepneys’ to start plying Makati routes in July
By Thea Alberto
INQUIRER.net
First Posted 16:24:00 06/25/2008
Filed Under: Road Transport, Energy & Resources, Alternative energy, Energy, Energy Savings
MANILA, Philippines -- Two locally manufactured passenger jeepneys powered by electricity will begin plying several routes in Makati City starting July 1, the city government said Wednesday.
Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay said the two electric vehicles, manufactured by the Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (MVPMAP), will augment the two China-made e-jeepneys that have been on a test-run in Barangay (village) Bel-Air.
During the first week of operations, the two local e-jeepneys which will join four Chinesxe made e-jeepneys unveiled earlier, will ferry office workers in Legazpi and Salcedo Villages for free from 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
After the first week, regular fares will be charged, subject to the approval of the Land Transportation Franchising Board (LTFRB).
If viable, 50 more locally made e-jeepneys will be fielded.
"In Makati, we have started with the electric jeepneys in the hope that when it becomes commercially viable it will address the problems of rising fuel costs, promote the use of alternative fuels and reduce the emission of greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming," Binay said in a statement.
The route of the e-jeepneys would be:
In Salcedo Village -- from Dela Costa St. turn right to Makati Ave., right to Paseo De Roxas, right to Villar St., left to Leviste St, left to Rufino St., right to Ayala Ave. and right to Dela Costa St.
In Legazpi Village -- from Salcedo St. turn right to VA Rufino St., left to Adelantado St., left to Gamboa St., left to Salcedo St., left to Benavidez St., left to Paseo De Roxas Ave., right to Legazpi St., left to Dela Rosa St., and left to Salcedo St.
Department of Public Safety (DPS) director Hermenegildo San Miguel said they have already created a loop system that will eventually become the routes for the e-jeepneys.
"We look forward to seeing how well the e-jeepneys will perform as an alternative means of public transport. We are beginning with four units and expect to have six more delivered and ready for use soon," San Miguel added in the statement.
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