July 18, 2025
News

LTO showcases solar-powered quadricycle as low-cost public transport alternative

  • June 25, 2025
  • 0
LTO showcases solar-powered quadricycle as low-cost public transport alternative

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has demonstrated a fully electric, solar-powered vehicle prototype designed to offer a low-cost, sustainable solution to the Philippines’ growing need for efficient urban transport.

Dubbed the “Basic Geep” or quadricycle, the concept unit was developed by the Ecology Builders and Development Corporation (EBDC) and presented as part of the LTO’s ongoing assessment of alternative transport technologies. Key LTO officials led the event, including Assistant Secretary Vigor D. Mendoza II, Executive Director Atty. Greg G. Pua Jr., Operations Division Acting Chief Kathleen Deanna G. Salayog, and Traffic Adjudication Service OIC Atty. Wendel C. Dinglasan. According to the agency, the solar panel-equipped unit promotes “sustainable and energy-efficient mobility.”.

The Basic Geep resembles a miniaturized jeepney in both form and function. While technical specifications remain limited, visuals from the demonstration show a stainless steel body, bench-style seating for around six passengers, and familiar styling elements such as a jeepney-style front end and decorated rear bumper. The unit even features a Momo steering wheel, a wooden shift knob, and a digital instrument cluster.

The LTO has yet to announce whether the Basic Geep will move forward into pilot deployment or production. However, the agency’s initiative signals growing institutional interest in compact EVs as viable alternatives to traditional public utility vehicles.

Is a solar-powered, jeepney-style EV the solution to urban transport woes? Join the conversation!

Follow Power Philippines on Facebook and LinkedIn for more updates.