The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has approved former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson’s first modern electronic jeepneys or e-jeepney test models.

On Friday, October 3, RH Val Gonzales reported that Singson’s push for transport modernization has come to fruition as the test models from his partner firms were presented before the DOTr. The modern jeepneys were constructed in partnership with LCS Group of Companies, one partner firm, and local experts from Lipa, Batangas.

Although no selling price had been set as of writing, Gonzales reported that Singson had previously stated that the price would not matter, as long as he could contribute to the government’s transport modernization program.

Two test models were presented on Friday, one white and one yellow. Since they are only for testing, it was noted that other designs or colors may be launched in the future, depending on the operators.

In addition, Singson had also noted that he would want to retain the Philippine jeepneys’ iconic appearance since their launch in the 1940s, and blend it with a modern look.

One of the primary concerns brought up by the DOTr officials was the vehicles’ batteries. With this, they suggested that more charging stations be set up in various areas so that the e-jeepney could operate in different parts of the country, other than the National Capital Region (NCR).

Gonzales reported that officials would be conducting a press conference later today to present the test model.