Business Insights and Market Implications Summary

Automotive Industry Trends

• New vs. Used Car Market (Philippines):

  • New cars depreciate up to 20% in the first year, while well-maintained used Honda Odysseys offer cost savings with similar quality.
  • Philkotse is a reliable dealership offering both new and used options post-quality checks.

• Honda Motorcycle Launch (India):

  • Honda launched the 2025 CB650R and CBR650R in India, priced at ₹9.60 lakh and ₹10.40 lakh respectively (ex-showroom Delhi).
  • The E-Clutch technology is a first for this segment, offering clutchless shifting and enhancing riding comfort.

Market Share and Competition

• Electric Two-Wheeler Market (India):

  • TVS and Bajaj dominate with almost 40% market share.
  • New entrants like Honda will drive innovation, performance upgrades, and price differentiation in the EV landscape.

• Toyota Hybrid Dominance (India):

  • Toyota holds 80% of India's hybrid car market, driven by Hyryder and Hycross sales.
  • Fuel efficiency and competitive pricing strategies are key factors behind this dominance.

Dealership and Financing Partnerships

• Matt Burne Honda Dealership (Scranton):

  • Known for excellent customer service, winning multiple awards from 2019–2025.
  • Offers extended hours, financing options, and MSRP pricing on new vehicles.

• Home Credit Philippines & KServico Partnership:

  • Provides fast and easy motorcycle financing across Metro Manila and Luzon.
  • Simplified process with one valid ID and instant approval.

Organizational Changes

• ACMobility Restructuring (Ayala Group):
  • Antonio "Toti" Zara transitions to an advisory role, with Jay Lopez as Managing Director of Kia Philippines.
  • A new Auto Care and Retail Group will consolidate dealership operations under Steve Gingco.

Safety and Regulatory Implications

• Fatal Car Crash (San Jose):
  • Highlights safety concerns for vehicle manufacturers and insurers, potentially impacting insurance rates and public perception.

Luxury and Classic Automotive Market

• BMW Z3 M Coupe:
  • A classic car with divisive styling but superior dynamics.
  • Production began in 1991, featuring S50/S52 engines and a five-speed manual transmission.

E-commerce and Logistics

• SriLankan Cargo Certification:
  • Secured South Asia’s first IATA CEIV Lithium Batteries Certification, positioning itself as a leader in safely handling e-commerce shipments.

Consumer Reports and Product Feedback

• Honda Civic Si Road Test (Consumer Reports):
  • Praises handling, braking, and fuel economy (32 mpg), but notes stiff ride and road noise.
  • Includes advanced safety features like forward collision warning and lane departure assistance.

Motorcycle Industry News

• Ducati Monster Update:
  • Next-generation Ducati Monster spied testing with a new 890 cc engine expected in 2026.

Other Market Trends

• Rubber and Stock Markets:
  • Rubber prices announced by the Rubber Board. BSE Sensex crashed 1,047.52 points due to India-Pakistan tensions.
• Coal Supply Deal:
  • Coal India Limited plans to supply 4,500 MW of carbon-free energy to AM Green's green ammonia facilities.

Wearable Technology and Consumer Insights

• Ray-Ban Meta Glasses for Biking:
  • Open-ear speakers and AI assistant integration offer convenience but face challenges with fit and app functionality.