GRAB Philippines (MyTaxi.PH, Inc) partnered with distributor AutoItalia Philippines Enterprises, Inc. to offer the GrabTrike Premium service using the three-wheeled Piaggio Ape.
At the launch event on Monday, Brian P. Cu, Grab Philippines country manager, said they will work with local government units (LGUs) to adopt the use of GrabTrike Premium either by increasing supply of tricycle franchises or replacing older tricycles with the Piaggio Ape units. Tricycle franchises are issued by LGUs.
Two thousand Piaggio Ape City F1 units will be offered to LGUs for the GrabTrike Premium service.
The municipality of Binalonan, Pangasinan was the first LGU to adopt the GrabTrike Premium service, with the deployment of 24 Piaggio Ape vehicles last month.
The Piaggio Ape is Euro IV compliant, and offers safe short-distance commute for passengers. The Piaggio Ape also has a maximum load capacity of 300 kilograms, and is powered by either gas or diesel engine. A liter of gas can go up to 38 kilometers.
“The tricycles will fit in the short distance commute, where you would be commuting from the small alleyways or villages that are hard get to with the four-wheel vehicles. The three-wheeler will be able to service those areas in a much more efficient and budget-friendly manner,” Mr. Cu said.
On the fare scheme of GrabTrike, Mr. Cu said that they will follow the LGU regulations, but noted there will be a P10 booking fee which goes to the driver. — V.M.P.Galang
