LOOK: Manufacturer shares modernized, electric-powered jeep with iconic look

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 2) — A well-known manufacturer of the iconic jeepney shared a new design of a modernized look.

Elmer Francisco, owner of Francisco Motors, told CNN Philippines’ Traffic Center that the new jeepney design is powered by electricity and has a built-in ramp at the rear for wheelchair passengers. It also has an automated fare collection system.

“If we replace the old fossil fuel-powered jeepneys with another diesel engine, we’re not changing anything,” Francisco said.

Francisco said e-jeepneys can accommodate 30 passengers, including 22 seated.

He added that the company will be manufacturing e-jeepneys in an economic zone in Camarines Norte.

Francisco Motors is one of the pioneers in jeep manufacturing. It began by turning American military vehicles into a vehicle that carries goods in 1949. It forayed into building new jeepneys in the 1950s and launched its first electric-powered jeepney in 2017.

However, Francsico said it is not easy to manufacture e-jeepneys especially "if we are to bring down the cost.”

Current e-jeepney models cost between ₱1.8 million to ₱2.8 million.

“We’re not only selling jeepneys, we are selling livelihood,” Francisco said. “What we want is to modernize jeepneys where no one is left behind.”