Tata reveals one of two jeepney concepts for PUV Modernization Program Marcus De Guzman July 26, 2017 14:42

It appears Tata is looking to invest in the goverment's PUV Modernization Program. At the recently concluded 2017 Tata Truckathon, the Indian automaker presented a jeepney concept based off one of their new heavy pickup offerings.

Simply called the SFC 407 Jeepney, the concept vehicle closely follows with the Department of Trade and Industry's (DTI) initial design for the modern jeepney.

Unlike the current PUV which still resembles the classic Willy's Jeep, the new modern jeepney by Tata will take on the form of a mini bus or coaster of sorts. In following with the DTI's initial plans, the SFC 407 Jeepney has a side entrance for the passengers (instead of a rear-entry) and a tall roof. It can seat 22 passengers in total. With the additional headroom, stand-in passengers can also board the jeepney.

Driving the SFC 407 Jeepney is a 3.0-liter turbocharged direct-injection four-cylinder diesel. It produces 75 PS at 2800 rpm along with 225 Nm of torque available between 1500 – 1800 rpm. A five-speed manual gearbox sends power to the rear wheels.

It also comes with heavy-duty front and rear axles, a 60-liter fuel tank and elliptical leaf springs for the front and rear.

The SFC 407 Jeepney is just one of two concepts that Tata Motors Philippines plans to present to the DOTr for the PUV Modernization program.