Pinoy Auto Blog

I have three kids who are in college. They all drive to school. As a father, one of my thickest fears is that they encounter problems while driving.

Particularly, I am worried that my kids will be subjected to unpleasant hazards while driving like:

1. Dishonest drivers who turn down to accept responsibility for car accidents they clearly caused.
2. Fraudsters and unscrupulous pedestrians causing their own accidents to blackmail motorists .
3. Hot headed drivers with road rage tendencies.
4. Corrupt policemen harassing drivers for committing unfounded “violations”.

In my over thirty years of driving in the Philippines, I’ve had my share of encounters with these hazards and often they left me stressed, angry, or depressed for several days. In those situations, it was always my word against the other party and more often than not, we end up with either a stalemate (I’m left to fix my own harm and the other party gets scot free) or worse, I lose the argument (I pay the ticket or damages or I get hurt) due to lack of evidence for my defence.

To protect my kids from these situations, I use a dashcam.

Dashboard Cameras (or dashcams) provide useable evidence to defend the driver against the other party. If a dishonest driver or a fraudster pedestrian insists that an accident is my kid’s fault, the dash cam permits me to establish otherwise. If the “road raged” driver does anything violent, the dash cam provides evidence to file complaints against him. And if a corrupt policeman attempts to harass my kid, the dashcam helps prove my child’s innocence.

DO FUEL ADDITIVES Truly WORK? — A PRODUCT REVIEW ON THE CALTEX TECHRON CONCENTRATE PLUS

A few weeks ago, Chevron gave me a bottle of their freshly launched product — theTechron Concentrate Plus. We attempted it out on a 2002 Toyota Altis 1.6E and I am pleasurably astonished with the results.

Our test car has already run over 120,000 kms in the past thirteen years and has performed fairly well so far. Nevertheless, I’ve observed that it is not anymore as powerful and as fuel efficient as it used to be.

Our objective in this experiment is to find out if this Techron product does have significant effects on the spectacle of the car.

Sponsored Movie: A Day in the Life of a Race Car Driver – Seen in ninety seconds TVC

Aside from being in the race track, what do Race Car legends do every day? Obviously, they party!

Exotic cars, high end bars, gorgeous women – just another day on the circuit. See the joy and titillating world of a race car driver in this ninety 2nd TVC. And there’s more: get a chance to win an iPad or 32″ TV by packing out a survey about the ad.

Sponsored Movie: Johnnie Walker Step Inwards: Jenson Button The Ultimate Walk – A Johnnie Walker presentation featuring Vodafone McLaren Mercedes driver Jenson Button.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Johnnie Walker

Sponsored Movie: Johnnie Walker Step Inwards Singapore : Driving With Jenson

This movie has two racing legends talking inwards a Mercedes while driving along the busy streets of Singapore – not much activity but still fairly interesting.

Johnnie Walker brought together Vodafone McLaren Mercedes driver Jenson Button and their Global Responsible Drinking Ambassador Mika Häkkinen to take a spin around the stylish streets of Singapore to talk about all things racing, including the unique appeal of the Singapore night race. Their key trivia question: if either race car driver had to be driven by someone, who would they want to drive for them?

Nosey? Witness the brief movie to find out.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Johnnie Walker

Question from a Reader: Is Cleaning Just the Car Aircon’s Evaporator Enough?

In the last post, I talked about the alternative way of having your aircon cleaned without “pulling down” the evaporator.

Some readers asked me if “cleaning the evaporator” is enough to “clean the aircon”. Evidently, experts from the “aircon shop next door” told them that aside from the evaporator, the rest of the aircon system (i.e. refrigerant lines, etc.) should also be cleaned.

As I am not an experienced on aircons myself, I referred the question to a friend of mine, Mr. Ferman Lao, the “auto guru”. In one of his articles in Top Gear, he talked extensively about this concern. This is what he has to say: Proceed reading Question from a Reader: Is Cleaning Just the Car Aircon’s Evaporator Enough? →

Breakthrough Service: Cleaning Your Car Aircon Without “Pull down”

Pop quiz: Can the aircon of the Toyota Altis be cleaned without removing the dashboard?

Almost everybody, including experts from Toyota Service Centers, would say “No“.

But the correct reaction is: “Yes” – if you use the B-Quick system.

I learned about B-Quick just today.

My Altis, whose aircon is religiously cleaned every year (via the traditional “pull-down evaporator” method), experienced it’s very first “B-Quick treatment” in a shop located in Mindanao Avenue today.

At very first I was skeptical. So I asked their Service Manager, a very nice boy named Marcial, a barrage of questions; and these are the highlights:

Sponsored Movie: Volvo’s fresh line of trucks made for Asia

Do you know of a truck brand called “UD Trucks”?

No? How about Volvo?

UD Trucks is possessed by Volvo and they make light, medium and powerful duty trucks in Japan. They sold more than 21,000 vehicles in 2012.

Just recently, in Bangkok, they launched the Quester – a fresh powerful duty truck range developed for Asia and is flawless for the Philippines.

Interested? Check out their introductory movie here:

Quester will have a broad range of applications, from long-haulage and distribution to construction and mining. Quester brings together the best of three worlds: Japanese craftsmanship and customer care from UD; breakthrough technology from Volvo Group; and cost efficiency from local manufacturing and sourcing.

Launching in major Asian markets later this year, UD Trucks will also provide extensive customer service and support packages in several countries. Strategically-located authorized and possessed UD Trucks dealerships and importer networks are preparing for an suggest based on minimal operational costs, maximum fuel efficiency and uptime.

“UD Trucks will be the very first Japanese brand to suggest a broad range of variants developed to meet the different needs of Asia and other growth markets with one common platform at affordable prices,” says Taizo Matsuo, Vice President of UD Trucks Product Management.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Volvo Trucks

F1? MotoGP? NASCAR? What are the odds?

Are you a racing fan? Just how big a fan are you of the sport? Whether it’s Formula One, NASCAR, MotoGP or any international, regional or local event, racing does come with loyal followers. And we can’t help it that racing also comes with what we can consider secondary markets, or betting and booking on the side. Whether you’re rooting for Fernando or Sebastian (or maybe even Kimi), whoever turns out champ can be a numbers game as much as it is a race. Vettel is very consistent with points, as much as Alonso is up for the challenge in a weaker car. But Raikkonen silently zooms through the finish line racking up points, too.

Best Anti-Drunk Driving Campaign: A Good Way to Get Sober Swift

A popular bar/restaurant in India desired to promote responsible driving to its clients. Particularly, they don’t want buzzed people to drive. But instead of just providing out fliers or putting up posters, they did something much better – they literally frightened the people into becoming a bit more sober right before driving.

In India, of the many supernatural beings they believe in, evidently the most fearsome being is the Hindu diety named Yama, the God of Death. Imagine him paying you a visit in your car right before you drive off… now, that’s scary.

A Youtube movie shows the reactions of the many party-goers (i.e. “victims”) who had a close encounter with “death himself”. In the end, the scene looks like a gag or practical joke. But I guess it drove home a good point.

If we did something like this here in the Philippines, a masked stud in a black cloak holding a sythe may have a similar influence. But if the “victim” is way too tipsy to appreciate the joke, our masked man might just end up badly hammered up by the same person he is attempting to save.

Must see event: 9th Manila International Auto Showcase (MIAS)

Here’s something to look forward to this April… the 9th Manila International Auto Showcase (MIAS). If you have already attended this event in the past years, you know that this event gets even better year to year.

Here is the official press release for the event:

9 th Manila International Auto Demonstrate (MIAS) Revving towards INNOVATION and TECHNOLOGY

In its practice of arranging world class events, Worldbex Services International (WSI) is once again ready to commence another arousing project as it uncovers the nine th Manila International Auto Demonstrate – MIAS two thousand thirteen gearing towards the theme “INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY”. Dubbed as the Philippines’ fattest driving and motoring event, MIAS will be held at the World Trade Center Manila and Philippine Trade Training Center this April 4-7, two thousand thirteen from 10AM to 10PM. As in any events organized by WSI expect MIAS two thousand thirteen to be packed with very first rate highlights such as in depth number of car displays, car launches, the most up to date collection of car parts, gadgets and supplies, professional precision driving and test driving activities.

As MIAS two thousand thirteen anticipates over 88,000 visitors before five hundred participating companies, the display promises to defend its title of upholding the ingenuity of the country’s car sector. For this year, MIAS two thousand thirteen have seen the carmakers desire for innovation, leading to technological advancement of car product’s contents and capabilities. Overtime, cars have transformed into rolling computer platforms with improving pocket features such as back up assist, automatic parking, stability control and phone integration. The innovation and integration of technology have nevertheless aided and even exceeded the needs of the present and future car owners. Because of this leap, cars have become a entire lot safer, sophisticated and pleasurable to drive, MIAS two thousand thirteen takes the entire industry to better understand this transformation through the theme “INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY”. Proceed reading Must see event: 9th Manila International Auto Showcase (MIAS) →

Pinoy Auto Blog, The Philippines – Premier Motoring, Travel, and Technology Blog

Pinoy Auto Blog

I have three kids who are in college. They all drive to school. As a father, one of my largest fears is that they encounter problems while driving.

Particularly, I am worried that my kids will be subjected to unpleasant hazards while driving like:

1. Dishonest drivers who reject to accept responsibility for car accidents they clearly caused.
2. Fraudsters and unscrupulous pedestrians causing their own accidents to blackmail motorists .
3. Hot headed drivers with road rage tendencies.
4. Corrupt policemen harassing drivers for committing unfounded “violations”.

In my over thirty years of driving in the Philippines, I’ve had my share of encounters with these hazards and often they left me stressed, angry, or depressed for several days. In those situations, it was always my word against the other party and more often than not, we end up with either a stalemate (I’m left to fix my own harm and the other party gets scot free) or worse, I lose the argument (I pay the ticket or damages or I get hurt) due to lack of evidence for my defence.

To protect my kids from these situations, I use a dashcam.

Dashboard Cameras (or dashcams) provide useable evidence to defend the driver against the other party. If a dishonest driver or a fraudster pedestrian insists that an accident is my kid’s fault, the dash cam permits me to establish otherwise. If the “road raged” driver does anything violent, the dash cam provides evidence to file complaints against him. And if a corrupt policeman attempts to harass my kid, the dashcam helps prove my child’s innocence.

DO FUEL ADDITIVES Indeed WORK? — A PRODUCT REVIEW ON THE CALTEX TECHRON CONCENTRATE PLUS

A few weeks ago, Chevron gave me a bottle of their freshly launched product — theTechron Concentrate Plus. We attempted it out on a 2002 Toyota Altis 1.6E and I am pleasurably astonished with the results.

Our test car has already run over 120,000 kms in the past thirteen years and has performed fairly well so far. Nevertheless, I’ve observed that it is not anymore as powerful and as fuel efficient as it used to be.

Our objective in this experiment is to find out if this Techron product does have significant effects on the spectacle of the car.

Sponsored Movie: A Day in the Life of a Race Car Driver – Seen in ninety seconds TVC

Aside from being in the race track, what do Race Car legends do every day? Obviously, they party!

Exotic cars, high end bars, gorgeous women – just another day on the circuit. See the joy and titillating world of a race car driver in this ninety 2nd TVC. And there’s more: get a chance to win an iPad or 32″ TV by packing out a survey about the ad.

Sponsored Movie: Johnnie Walker Step Inwards: Jenson Button The Ultimate Walk – A Johnnie Walker presentation featuring Vodafone McLaren Mercedes driver Jenson Button.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Johnnie Walker

Sponsored Movie: Johnnie Walker Step Inwards Singapore : Driving With Jenson

This movie has two racing legends talking inwards a Mercedes while driving along the busy streets of Singapore – not much activity but still fairly interesting.

Johnnie Walker brought together Vodafone McLaren Mercedes driver Jenson Button and their Global Responsible Drinking Ambassador Mika Häkkinen to take a spin around the stylish streets of Singapore to talk about all things racing, including the unique appeal of the Singapore night race. Their key trivia question: if either race car driver had to be driven by someone, who would they want to drive for them?

Nosey? Observe the brief movie to find out.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Johnnie Walker

Question from a Reader: Is Cleaning Just the Car Aircon’s Evaporator Enough?

In the last post, I talked about the alternative way of having your aircon cleaned without “pulling down” the evaporator.

Some readers asked me if “cleaning the evaporator” is enough to “clean the aircon”. Evidently, experts from the “aircon shop next door” told them that aside from the evaporator, the rest of the aircon system (i.e. refrigerant lines, etc.) should also be cleaned.

As I am not an accomplished on aircons myself, I referred the question to a friend of mine, Mr. Ferman Lao, the “auto guru”. In one of his articles in Top Gear, he talked extensively about this concern. This is what he has to say: Proceed reading Question from a Reader: Is Cleaning Just the Car Aircon’s Evaporator Enough? →

Breakthrough Service: Cleaning Your Car Aircon Without “Pull down”

Pop quiz: Can the aircon of the Toyota Altis be cleaned without removing the dashboard?

Almost everybody, including experts from Toyota Service Centers, would say “No“.

But the correct response is: “Yes” – if you use the B-Quick system.

I learned about B-Quick just today.

My Altis, whose aircon is religiously cleaned every year (via the traditional “pull-down evaporator” method), experienced it’s very first “B-Quick treatment” in a shop located in Mindanao Avenue today.

At very first I was skeptical. So I asked their Service Manager, a very nice man named Marcial, a barrage of questions; and these are the highlights:

Sponsored Movie: Volvo’s fresh line of trucks made for Asia

Do you know of a truck brand called “UD Trucks”?

No? How about Volvo?

UD Trucks is possessed by Volvo and they make light, medium and strenuous duty trucks in Japan. They sold more than 21,000 vehicles in 2012.

Just recently, in Bangkok, they launched the Quester – a fresh strong duty truck range developed for Asia and is ideal for the Philippines.

Interested? Check out their introductory movie here:

Quester will have a broad range of applications, from long-haulage and distribution to construction and mining. Quester brings together the best of three worlds: Japanese craftsmanship and customer care from UD; breakthrough technology from Volvo Group; and cost efficiency from local manufacturing and sourcing.

Launching in major Asian markets later this year, UD Trucks will also provide extensive customer service and support packages in several countries. Strategically-located authorized and possessed UD Trucks dealerships and importer networks are preparing for an suggest based on minimal operational costs, maximum fuel efficiency and uptime.

“UD Trucks will be the very first Japanese brand to suggest a broad range of variants developed to meet the different needs of Asia and other growth markets with one common platform at affordable prices,” says Taizo Matsuo, Vice President of UD Trucks Product Management.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Volvo Trucks

F1? MotoGP? NASCAR? What are the odds?

Are you a racing fan? Just how big a fan are you of the sport? Whether it’s Formula One, NASCAR, MotoGP or any international, regional or local event, racing does come with loyal followers. And we can’t help it that racing also comes with what we can consider secondary markets, or betting and booking on the side. Whether you’re rooting for Fernando or Sebastian (or maybe even Kimi), whoever turns out champ can be a numbers game as much as it is a race. Vettel is very consistent with points, as much as Alonso is up for the challenge in a weaker car. But Raikkonen silently zooms through the finish line racking up points, too.

Best Anti-Drunk Driving Campaign: A Superb Way to Get Sober Rapid

A popular bar/restaurant in India dreamed to promote responsible driving to its clients. Particularly, they don’t want inebriated people to drive. But instead of just providing out fliers or putting up posters, they did something much better – they literally frightened the people into becoming a bit more sober right before driving.

In India, of the many supernatural beings they believe in, evidently the most fearsome being is the Hindu diety named Yama, the God of Death. Imagine him paying you a visit in your car right before you drive off… now, that’s scary.

A Youtube movie shows the reactions of the many party-goers (i.e. “victims”) who had a close encounter with “death himself”. In the end, the scene looks like a gag or practical joke. But I guess it drove home a good point.

If we did something like this here in the Philippines, a masked fellow in a black cloak holding a sythe may have a similar influence. But if the “victim” is way too buzzed to appreciate the joke, our masked stud might just end up badly hammered up by the same person he is attempting to save.

Must see event: 9th Manila International Auto Display (MIAS)

Here’s something to look forward to this April… the 9th Manila International Auto Showcase (MIAS). If you have already attended this event in the past years, you know that this event gets even better year to year.

Here is the official press release for the event:

9 th Manila International Auto Display (MIAS) Revving towards INNOVATION and TECHNOLOGY

In its practice of arranging world class events, Worldbex Services International (WSI) is once again ready to embark another titillating project as it uncovers the nine th Manila International Auto Demonstrate – MIAS two thousand thirteen gearing towards the theme “INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY”. Dubbed as the Philippines’ thickest driving and motoring event, MIAS will be held at the World Trade Center Manila and Philippine Trade Training Center this April 4-7, two thousand thirteen from 10AM to 10PM. As in any events organized by WSI expect MIAS two thousand thirteen to be packed with very first rate highlights such as in depth number of car displays, car launches, the most up to date collection of car parts, gadgets and supplies, professional precision driving and test driving activities.

As MIAS two thousand thirteen anticipates over 88,000 visitors before five hundred participating companies, the display promises to defend its title of upholding the ingenuity of the country’s car sector. For this year, MIAS two thousand thirteen have seen the carmakers desire for innovation, leading to technological advancement of car product’s contents and capabilities. Overtime, cars have transformed into rolling computer platforms with improving pocket features such as back up assist, automatic parking, stability control and phone integration. The innovation and integration of technology have nevertheless aided and even exceeded the needs of the present and future car owners. Because of this leap, cars have become a entire lot safer, sophisticated and pleasant to drive, MIAS two thousand thirteen takes the entire industry to better understand this transformation through the theme “INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY”. Proceed reading Must see event: 9th Manila International Auto Showcase (MIAS) →

Pinoy Auto Blog, The Philippines – Premier Motoring, Travel, and Technology Blog

Pinoy Auto Blog

I have three kids who are in college. They all drive to school. As a father, one of my largest fears is that they encounter problems while driving.

Particularly, I am worried that my kids will be subjected to unpleasant hazards while driving like:

1. Dishonest drivers who deny to accept responsibility for car accidents they clearly caused.
2. Fraudsters and unscrupulous pedestrians causing their own accidents to blackmail motorists .
3. Hot headed drivers with road rage tendencies.
4. Corrupt policemen harassing drivers for committing unfounded “violations”.

In my over thirty years of driving in the Philippines, I’ve had my share of encounters with these hazards and often they left me stressed, angry, or depressed for several days. In those situations, it was always my word against the other party and more often than not, we end up with either a stalemate (I’m left to fix my own harm and the other party gets scot free) or worse, I lose the argument (I pay the ticket or damages or I get hurt) due to lack of evidence for my defence.

To protect my kids from these situations, I use a dashcam.

Dashboard Cameras (or dashcams) provide useable evidence to defend the driver against the other party. If a dishonest driver or a fraudster pedestrian insists that an accident is my kid’s fault, the dash cam permits me to establish otherwise. If the “road raged” driver does anything violent, the dash cam provides evidence to file complaints against him. And if a corrupt policeman attempts to harass my kid, the dashcam helps prove my child’s innocence.

DO FUEL ADDITIVES Truly WORK? — A PRODUCT REVIEW ON THE CALTEX TECHRON CONCENTRATE PLUS

A few weeks ago, Chevron gave me a bottle of their freshly launched product — theTechron Concentrate Plus. We attempted it out on a 2002 Toyota Altis 1.6E and I am pleasurably astonished with the results.

Our test car has already run over 120,000 kms in the past thirteen years and has performed fairly well so far. Nevertheless, I’ve observed that it is not anymore as powerful and as fuel efficient as it used to be.

Our objective in this experiment is to find out if this Techron product does have significant effects on the spectacle of the car.

Sponsored Movie: A Day in the Life of a Race Car Driver – Seen in ninety seconds TVC

Aside from being in the race track, what do Race Car legends do every day? Obviously, they party!

Exotic cars, high end bars, gorgeous women – just another day on the circuit. See the joy and arousing world of a race car driver in this ninety 2nd TVC. And there’s more: get a chance to win an iPad or 32″ TV by packing out a survey about the ad.

Sponsored Movie: Johnnie Walker Step Inwards: Jenson Button The Ultimate Walk – A Johnnie Walker presentation featuring Vodafone McLaren Mercedes driver Jenson Button.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Johnnie Walker

Sponsored Movie: Johnnie Walker Step Inwards Singapore : Driving With Jenson

This movie has two racing legends talking inwards a Mercedes while driving along the busy streets of Singapore – not much act but still fairly interesting.

Johnnie Walker brought together Vodafone McLaren Mercedes driver Jenson Button and their Global Responsible Drinking Ambassador Mika Häkkinen to take a spin around the stylish streets of Singapore to talk about all things racing, including the unique appeal of the Singapore night race. Their key trivia question: if either race car driver had to be driven by someone, who would they want to drive for them?

Nosey? See the brief movie to find out.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Johnnie Walker

Question from a Reader: Is Cleaning Just the Car Aircon’s Evaporator Enough?

In the last post, I talked about the alternative way of having your aircon cleaned without “pulling down” the evaporator.

Some readers asked me if “cleaning the evaporator” is enough to “clean the aircon”. Evidently, experts from the “aircon shop next door” told them that aside from the evaporator, the rest of the aircon system (i.e. refrigerant lines, etc.) should also be cleaned.

As I am not an accomplished on aircons myself, I referred the question to a friend of mine, Mr. Ferman Lao, the “auto guru”. In one of his articles in Top Gear, he talked extensively about this concern. This is what he has to say: Proceed reading Question from a Reader: Is Cleaning Just the Car Aircon’s Evaporator Enough? →

Breakthrough Service: Cleaning Your Car Aircon Without “Pull down”

Pop quiz: Can the aircon of the Toyota Altis be cleaned without removing the dashboard?

Almost everybody, including experts from Toyota Service Centers, would say “No“.

But the correct reaction is: “Yes” – if you use the B-Quick system.

I learned about B-Quick just today.

My Altis, whose aircon is religiously cleaned every year (via the traditional “pull-down evaporator” method), experienced it’s very first “B-Quick treatment” in a shop located in Mindanao Avenue today.

At very first I was skeptical. So I asked their Service Manager, a very nice fellow named Marcial, a barrage of questions; and these are the highlights:

Sponsored Movie: Volvo’s fresh line of trucks made for Asia

Do you know of a truck brand called “UD Trucks”?

No? How about Volvo?

UD Trucks is wielded by Volvo and they make light, medium and powerful duty trucks in Japan. They sold more than 21,000 vehicles in 2012.

Just recently, in Bangkok, they launched the Quester – a fresh strong duty truck range developed for Asia and is ideal for the Philippines.

Interested? Check out their introductory movie here:

Quester will have a broad range of applications, from long-haulage and distribution to construction and mining. Quester brings together the best of three worlds: Japanese craftsmanship and customer care from UD; breakthrough technology from Volvo Group; and cost efficiency from local manufacturing and sourcing.

Launching in major Asian markets later this year, UD Trucks will also provide extensive customer service and support packages in several countries. Strategically-located authorized and wielded UD Trucks dealerships and importer networks are preparing for an suggest based on minimal operational costs, maximum fuel efficiency and uptime.

“UD Trucks will be the very first Japanese brand to suggest a broad range of variants developed to meet the different needs of Asia and other growth markets with one common platform at affordable prices,” says Taizo Matsuo, Vice President of UD Trucks Product Management.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Volvo Trucks

F1? MotoGP? NASCAR? What are the odds?

Are you a racing fan? Just how big a fan are you of the sport? Whether it’s Formula One, NASCAR, MotoGP or any international, regional or local event, racing does come with loyal followers. And we can’t help it that racing also comes with what we can consider secondary markets, or betting and booking on the side. Whether you’re rooting for Fernando or Sebastian (or maybe even Kimi), whoever turns out champ can be a numbers game as much as it is a race. Vettel is very consistent with points, as much as Alonso is up for the challenge in a weaker car. But Raikkonen silently zooms through the finish line racking up points, too.

Best Anti-Drunk Driving Campaign: A Fine Way to Get Sober Prompt

A popular bar/restaurant in India wished to promote responsible driving to its clients. Particularly, they don’t want toasted people to drive. But instead of just providing out fliers or putting up posters, they did something much better – they literally frightened the people into becoming a bit more sober right before driving.

In India, of the many supernatural beings they believe in, evidently the most fearsome being is the Hindu diety named Yama, the God of Death. Imagine him paying you a visit in your car right before you drive off… now, that’s scary.

A Youtube movie shows the reactions of the many party-goers (i.e. “victims”) who had a close encounter with “death himself”. In the end, the scene looks like a gag or practical joke. But I guess it drove home a good point.

If we did something like this here in the Philippines, a masked fellow in a black cloak holding a sythe may have a similar influence. But if the “victim” is way too inebriated to appreciate the joke, our masked boy might just end up badly hammered up by the same person he is attempting to save.

Must see event: 9th Manila International Auto Showcase (MIAS)

Here’s something to look forward to this April… the 9th Manila International Auto Display (MIAS). If you have already attended this event in the past years, you know that this event gets even better year to year.

Here is the official press release for the event:

9 th Manila International Auto Showcase (MIAS) Revving towards INNOVATION and TECHNOLOGY

In its practice of arranging world class events, Worldbex Services International (WSI) is once again ready to embark another titillating project as it uncovers the nine th Manila International Auto Showcase – MIAS two thousand thirteen gearing towards the theme “INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY”. Dubbed as the Philippines’ thickest driving and motoring event, MIAS will be held at the World Trade Center Manila and Philippine Trade Training Center this April 4-7, two thousand thirteen from 10AM to 10PM. As in any events organized by WSI expect MIAS two thousand thirteen to be packed with very first rate highlights such as in depth number of car displays, car launches, the most up to date collection of car parts, gadgets and supplies, professional precision driving and test driving activities.

As MIAS two thousand thirteen anticipates over 88,000 visitors before five hundred participating companies, the demonstrate promises to defend its title of upholding the ingenuity of the country’s car sector. For this year, MIAS two thousand thirteen have seen the carmakers desire for innovation, leading to technological advancement of car product’s contents and capabilities. Overtime, cars have transformed into rolling computer platforms with improving pocket features such as back up assist, automatic parking, stability control and phone integration. The innovation and integration of technology have nevertheless aided and even exceeded the needs of the present and future car owners. Because of this leap, cars have become a entire lot safer, sophisticated and pleasant to drive, MIAS two thousand thirteen takes the entire industry to better understand this transformation through the theme “INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY”. Proceed reading Must see event: 9th Manila International Auto Display (MIAS) →

Pinoy Auto Blog, The Philippines – Premier Motoring, Travel, and Technology Blog

Pinoy Auto Blog

I have three kids who are in college. They all drive to school. As a father, one of my largest fears is that they encounter problems while driving.

Particularly, I am worried that my kids will be subjected to unpleasant hazards while driving like:

1. Dishonest drivers who deny to accept responsibility for car accidents they clearly caused.
2. Fraudsters and unscrupulous pedestrians causing their own accidents to blackmail motorists .
3. Hot headed drivers with road rage tendencies.
4. Corrupt policemen harassing drivers for committing unfounded “violations”.

In my over thirty years of driving in the Philippines, I’ve had my share of encounters with these hazards and often they left me stressed, angry, or depressed for several days. In those situations, it was always my word against the other party and more often than not, we end up with either a stalemate (I’m left to fix my own harm and the other party gets scot free) or worse, I lose the argument (I pay the ticket or damages or I get hurt) due to lack of evidence for my defence.

To protect my kids from these situations, I use a dashcam.

Dashboard Cameras (or dashcams) provide useable evidence to defend the driver against the other party. If a dishonest driver or a fraudster pedestrian insists that an accident is my kid’s fault, the dash cam permits me to establish otherwise. If the “road raged” driver does anything violent, the dash cam provides evidence to file complaints against him. And if a corrupt policeman attempts to harass my kid, the dashcam helps prove my child’s innocence.

DO FUEL ADDITIVES Truly WORK? — A PRODUCT REVIEW ON THE CALTEX TECHRON CONCENTRATE PLUS

A few weeks ago, Chevron gave me a bottle of their freshly launched product — theTechron Concentrate Plus. We attempted it out on a 2002 Toyota Altis 1.6E and I am pleasurably astonished with the results.

Our test car has already run over 120,000 kms in the past thirteen years and has performed fairly well so far. Nevertheless, I’ve observed that it is not anymore as powerful and as fuel efficient as it used to be.

Our objective in this experiment is to find out if this Techron product does have significant effects on the spectacle of the car.

Sponsored Movie: A Day in the Life of a Race Car Driver – Seen in ninety seconds TVC

Aside from being in the race track, what do Race Car legends do every day? Obviously, they party!

Exotic cars, high end bars, gorgeous women – just another day on the circuit. See the joy and arousing world of a race car driver in this ninety 2nd TVC. And there’s more: get a chance to win an iPad or 32″ TV by packing out a survey about the ad.

Sponsored Movie: Johnnie Walker Step Inwards: Jenson Button The Ultimate Walk – A Johnnie Walker presentation featuring Vodafone McLaren Mercedes driver Jenson Button.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Johnnie Walker

Sponsored Movie: Johnnie Walker Step Inwards Singapore : Driving With Jenson

This movie has two racing legends talking inwards a Mercedes while driving along the busy streets of Singapore – not much act but still fairly interesting.

Johnnie Walker brought together Vodafone McLaren Mercedes driver Jenson Button and their Global Responsible Drinking Ambassador Mika Häkkinen to take a spin around the stylish streets of Singapore to talk about all things racing, including the unique appeal of the Singapore night race. Their key trivia question: if either race car driver had to be driven by someone, who would they want to drive for them?

Nosey? See the brief movie to find out.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Johnnie Walker

Question from a Reader: Is Cleaning Just the Car Aircon’s Evaporator Enough?

In the last post, I talked about the alternative way of having your aircon cleaned without “pulling down” the evaporator.

Some readers asked me if “cleaning the evaporator” is enough to “clean the aircon”. Evidently, experts from the “aircon shop next door” told them that aside from the evaporator, the rest of the aircon system (i.e. refrigerant lines, etc.) should also be cleaned.

As I am not an pro on aircons myself, I referred the question to a friend of mine, Mr. Ferman Lao, the “auto guru”. In one of his articles in Top Gear, he talked extensively about this concern. This is what he has to say: Proceed reading Question from a Reader: Is Cleaning Just the Car Aircon’s Evaporator Enough? →

Breakthrough Service: Cleaning Your Car Aircon Without “Pull down”

Pop quiz: Can the aircon of the Toyota Altis be cleaned without removing the dashboard?

Almost everybody, including experts from Toyota Service Centers, would say “No“.

But the correct reaction is: “Yes” – if you use the B-Quick system.

I learned about B-Quick just today.

My Altis, whose aircon is religiously cleaned every year (via the traditional “pull-down evaporator” method), experienced it’s very first “B-Quick treatment” in a shop located in Mindanao Avenue today.

At very first I was skeptical. So I asked their Service Manager, a very nice dude named Marcial, a barrage of questions; and these are the highlights:

Sponsored Movie: Volvo’s fresh line of trucks made for Asia

Do you know of a truck brand called “UD Trucks”?

No? How about Volvo?

UD Trucks is possessed by Volvo and they make light, medium and strong duty trucks in Japan. They sold more than 21,000 vehicles in 2012.

Just recently, in Bangkok, they launched the Quester – a fresh powerful duty truck range developed for Asia and is flawless for the Philippines.

Interested? Check out their introductory movie here:

Quester will have a broad range of applications, from long-haulage and distribution to construction and mining. Quester brings together the best of three worlds: Japanese craftsmanship and customer care from UD; breakthrough technology from Volvo Group; and cost efficiency from local manufacturing and sourcing.

Launching in major Asian markets later this year, UD Trucks will also provide extensive customer service and support packages in several countries. Strategically-located authorized and wielded UD Trucks dealerships and importer networks are preparing for an suggest based on minimal operational costs, maximum fuel efficiency and uptime.

“UD Trucks will be the very first Japanese brand to suggest a broad range of variants developed to meet the different needs of Asia and other growth markets with one common platform at affordable prices,” says Taizo Matsuo, Vice President of UD Trucks Product Management.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Volvo Trucks

F1? MotoGP? NASCAR? What are the odds?

Are you a racing fan? Just how big a fan are you of the sport? Whether it’s Formula One, NASCAR, MotoGP or any international, regional or local event, racing does come with loyal followers. And we can’t help it that racing also comes with what we can consider secondary markets, or betting and booking on the side. Whether you’re rooting for Fernando or Sebastian (or maybe even Kimi), whoever turns out champ can be a numbers game as much as it is a race. Vettel is very consistent with points, as much as Alonso is up for the challenge in a weaker car. But Raikkonen silently zooms through the finish line racking up points, too.

Best Anti-Drunk Driving Campaign: A Good Way to Get Sober Swift

A popular bar/restaurant in India wished to promote responsible driving to its clients. Particularly, they don’t want inebriated people to drive. But instead of just providing out fliers or putting up posters, they did something much better – they literally frightened the people into becoming a bit more sober right before driving.

In India, of the many supernatural beings they believe in, evidently the most fearsome being is the Hindu diety named Yama, the God of Death. Imagine him paying you a visit in your car right before you drive off… now, that’s scary.

A Youtube movie shows the reactions of the many party-goers (i.e. “victims”) who had a close encounter with “death himself”. In the end, the scene looks like a gag or practical joke. But I guess it drove home a good point.

If we did something like this here in the Philippines, a masked man in a black cloak holding a sythe may have a similar influence. But if the “victim” is way too buzzed to appreciate the joke, our masked fellow might just end up badly hammered up by the same person he is attempting to save.

Must see event: 9th Manila International Auto Display (MIAS)

Here’s something to look forward to this April… the 9th Manila International Auto Showcase (MIAS). If you have already attended this event in the past years, you know that this event gets even better year to year.

Here is the official press release for the event:

9 th Manila International Auto Display (MIAS) Revving towards INNOVATION and TECHNOLOGY

In its practice of arranging world class events, Worldbex Services International (WSI) is once again ready to begin another arousing project as it uncovers the nine th Manila International Auto Display – MIAS two thousand thirteen gearing towards the theme “INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY”. Dubbed as the Philippines’ largest driving and motoring event, MIAS will be held at the World Trade Center Manila and Philippine Trade Training Center this April 4-7, two thousand thirteen from 10AM to 10PM. As in any events organized by WSI expect MIAS two thousand thirteen to be packed with very first rate highlights such as in depth number of car displays, car launches, the most up to date collection of car parts, gadgets and supplies, professional precision driving and test driving activities.

As MIAS two thousand thirteen anticipates over 88,000 visitors before five hundred participating companies, the demonstrate promises to defend its title of upholding the ingenuity of the country’s car sector. For this year, MIAS two thousand thirteen have seen the carmakers desire for innovation, leading to technological advancement of car product’s contents and capabilities. Overtime, cars have transformed into rolling computer platforms with improving pocket features such as back up assist, automatic parking, stability control and phone integration. The innovation and integration of technology have nevertheless aided and even exceeded the needs of the present and future car owners. Because of this leap, cars have become a entire lot safer, sophisticated and pleasant to drive, MIAS two thousand thirteen takes the entire industry to better understand this transformation through the theme “INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY”. Proceed reading Must see event: 9th Manila International Auto Display (MIAS) →

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