Search for 2011-2012 Car of the Year-Philippines launched

MANILA, Philippines - Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI), the award-giving body composed of motoring journalists, launched their search for the 2011-2012 Car of the Year-Philippines (COTY-PH) last August 26, at an official launch night held at the Congo Grille El Pueblo in Ortigas Center.

CAGI president Ferman Lao noted during his announcement that, “Despite the slowdown in 2011 car sales after last year’s record highs, prospects for the Philippine automotive industry continue to be bright. With automotive manufacturers and distributors bringing in the latest models and offering a wider range of product offerings, Filipino consumers now have more options to choose from. From Chinese car brands offering more affordable entry level vehicles to European luxury brands at the other end of the spectrum, there is certainly a car to match every buyer’s taste and budget. I believe that through COTY-PH, motoring journalists can provide useful information to Filipino consumers to guide their purchase decisions.”

This year’s COTY testing is open to all new passenger cars and commercial vehicles introduced in the Philippine market from November 1, 2010 to October 31, 2011. All eligible entries will be subjected to both qualitative and technical evaluation.

Qualitative evaluation examines the following vehicle attributes: (1) Aesthetics (interior/exterior); (2) ergonomics; (3) NVH or noise, vibration and harshness; (4) ride comfort; and (5) space. The qualitative evaluation process is open to all CAGI members and will be held at the Ortigas Home Depot parking lot over six weekends in September and October 2011.

For the rigorous technical testing, which will be held at the Clark International Speedway in late October 2011, a select team will conduct instrumented tests on the following parameters: (1) Acceleration, 0-100kph in seconds; (2) Braking distance, 100-0kph in meters; and (3) Handling, through a 120m chicane course.

Specific award categories vary from year to year, depending on the eligible vehicles. Typically, qualified entries are classified by:

Size: sub-compact, compact, mid-size, etc.

Function: sedan, crossover, SUV, pickup, van, truck, etc.

Drivertrain: 2WD, 4WD

Price: basic, premium, luxury, etc.

Winners of the 2011-2012 COTY-PH will be announced in April 2012, with the awarding ceremonies to be held during the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) at the World Trade Center.

The Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI) is an award-giving body composed of motoring journalists. Every year since 2004, CAGI invites automotive manufacturers and distributors to submit their new vehicle models for technical and qualitative testing. Test results are summarized and subjected to external audit. Awards are given in various categories, with the most prestigious award being the Car of the Year Award.