Toyota Tamaraw Concept revealed, to be built in PH

One of the most venerable automotive nameplates in the Philippines is set to make a comeback! The return of the Toyota Tamaraw nameplate is closer to becoming a reality as its concept version was shown off tonight at the 35th anniversary celebration of Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP), unveiled by Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) Chairman Akio Toyoda himself.

The all-new Toyota Tamaraw Concept is based on the Toyota IMV 0 Concept which was revealed last year in Thailand, and previewed as the Rangga Concept at the recent Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS).

Essentially the Rangga Concept, the Toyota Tamaraw Concept wears a boxy, utilitarian, and very truck-like appearance but with a modern touch. It is designed to be built with various configurations and body styles to match customer needs. Previewed for the Philippine market is the Tamaraw Concept in pickup truck and modern public utility vehicle (PUV) configuration.

News of the Toyota Tamaraw’s return to production was first revealed earlier this year when it was confirmed by TMP President Atsuhiro Okamoto during an official state visit of Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in Japan, at a dinner hosted for media and delegates, including executives from TMC and TMP.

Once revealed in production form, the all-new Toyota Tamaraw will be produced from scratch in Toyota Motor Philippines’ manufacturing plant in Sta. Rosa, Laguna starting next year. The company has invested Php 4.4-billion in order to make this happen.