Toyota deploys 10 Hiace with Grab-style app for PGH
Toyota Mobility Foundation rolls out 10 Hiace units
Last month, the Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) introduced the “Just-in-Time” app and provided several connected and sanitized shuttle vans for free to hospitals in Bangkok, Thailand. At the time, they said that the service will also be rolled out to other countries in South East Asia in the future.
Now, the service has finally made its way to the Philippines as TMF announced that they will be providing up to 10 connected and sanitized shuttles to the Philippine General Hospital (PGH).
These shuttles will be free of charge and will help medical workers and staff at the hospital commute safely and efficiently. Each shuttle will be equipped with air purification devices and seat covers that will be periodically replaced. The shuttles will also be frequently cleaned. Passengers in each van will also be limited in order to allow for social distancing.
“We are deeply honored to expand TMF's connected and sanitized services to the Philippines with the aim of providing medical front-liners with safe, free, and convenient commuting options during this difficult time. We are also looking to implement this service in other Southeast Asian countries in the near future,” said Pras Ganesh, Program Director for Asia Region representing TMF.
The service offered by TMF in the Philippines is similar to that introduced in Thailand last April. Aside from the free shuttles, the organization will also be introducing the “Just-in-Time” app designed by Singapore-based SWAT Mobility. The ride-hailing app will allow commuters to book a seat on the shuttles from a more convenient location rather than lining up in long queues or walking to their respective hospitals. At the same time, it will also allow them to be dropped off to their houses after work. Considering that Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) has grounded public transport to a halt, the app will make lives easier for medical workers, staff, and other front liners at PGH.
The service is expected to last for three months, with operational support from Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation and Toyota Daihatsu Engineering & Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
Aside from the 10 shuttle services, Toyota Motor Philippines has also rolled out several vehicles to various government hospitals, government units, and other volunteer groups to transport front liners, healthcare workers, and other essential workers during these times.
