Tuk tuk philippines

Types of Tuk Tuk Philippines

In the Philippines, tuk-tuks are more popularly known as tricycles. A motorcycle with a sidecar for two passengers at the back makes up the sidecar. It is a widely used public transportation mode in rural and urban areas. Depending on the region, tuk-tuks in the Philippines come in various types. They include:

• Hulaw Tricycle

  Hulaw is a term that describes the sound of a motorcycle's engine. The hulaw tricycle is a standard motorcycle with a sidecar. It is commonly used in rural areas where the roads are not well paved. The hulaw tricycle is preferred in those areas because it is cheap to maintain and can navigate rough roads easily.

• Electric Tricycle (E-Trike)

  The electric tricycle is a modern version of the tuk-tuk. It is becoming very popular in urban areas because of the rising environmental concerns and the need to reduce carbon emissions. The e-trike is quiet and requires less maintenance compared to the petrol-powered ones.

• UV Express Tricycle

  In big cities like Manila and Cebu, tuk-tuks are referred to as tricycles. The UV Express Tricycle is a longer version of a standard tuk-tuk. It can carry more passengers compared to the standard ones. It is used as a public transport vehicle, especially in urban areas where there is a high population density.

• Tourist Tricycle

  In tourist destinations like Palawan and Boracay, tuk-tuks are used to transport tourists to various destinations. These tuk-tuks are brightly painted and well-maintained to cater to tourists. They charge higher fares compared to the standard ones. They offer added services such as luggage handling.

• Barangay Service Tricycle

  In many parts of the Philippines, local governments subsidize the barangay service tricycles to provide cheap transport services to residents. These tuk-tuks charge minimal fares or are free for residents. They play an important role in enhancing mobility among citizens.

Specification and maintenance of Tuk-tuks in the Philippines

There are many kinds of Tuk-tuks in the Philippines, each designed to suit specific purposes. All these options have distinct specifications that include the following:

• Engine:

  The heart of the Tuk-tuk is its engine. The engine provides the power needed to operate the vehicle. Depending on the type of Tuk-tuk, the engine will vary in size and power. Some Tuk-tuks have petrol engines while others have diesel or electric engines. The difference in the type of fuel used provides varied benefits. For instance, petrol-powered engines are cheaper to maintain compared to diesel-powered engines, which are more fuel efficient.

• Chassis:

  The chassis is the Tuk-tuk's structure that holds the vehicle together. It is the base on which the whole vehicle is built. The chassis design varies with the type of Tuk-tuk. For instance, some are designed to be lightweight, while others focus on durability and strength to carry heavy loads.

• Bodywork:

  Tuk-tuks in the Philippines have different bodywork designs depending on their purpose. Some are designed for passenger transport, while others are cargo transport. Typically, a Tuk-tuk has a three-sided cab with a roof and an open area for passengers.

• Seating:

  Well, the seating arrangement depends on the purpose of the Tuk-tuk. Some have seats for two passengers, while others can accommodate up to four passengers. The seats are designed for comfort with cushions and seat belts.

• Load capacity:

  Tuk-tuks have different load capacities. This is the maximum weight that they can carry. Each Tuk-tuk is designed with a load capacity to prevent overloading and maintain stability.

Maintaining a Tuk-tuk is essential to ensure it works properly for a long time. Here are some maintenance practices to keep it in good shape.

• Regular inspections: Carry out regular inspections to check the condition of the vehicle.
• Tire maintenance: Check if the tires are inflated with the right pressure. Also, inspect the tires for any damage or wear and replace them when they reach the limit.
• Engine maintenance: Carry out regular oil changes and replace air filters to ensure the engine works efficiently.
• Brake maintenance: Regularly inspect the brake pads, brake discs, and other brake components to ensure maximum safety and performance.
• Vehicle body: Keep the vehicle body clean and free from rust and damage.

How to Choose Tuk Tuk in the Philippines

Business owners need to understand the key factors affecting the choice of a suitable tuk-tuk model to ensure they have the right information to make informed decisions.

• Purpose

  Determine the primary purpose of the tuk-tuk. Is it for passenger transport, goods delivery, or a combination of both? For instance, if the primary function is transporting passengers, a tuk-tuk model with more seating capacity and comfort features would be ideal. On the other hand, a tuk-tuk designed for cargo transport would need a larger cargo area and loading capabilities.

• Engine Size and Fuel Efficiency

  Tuk-tuks come with different engine sizes. In general, larger engines provide more power but consume more fuel. In areas with steep roads and frequent inclines, a tuk-tuk with a larger engine can handle the terrain more efficiently. A tuk-tuk with a smaller engine is more fuel efficient and has a lower operating cost.

• Brand Reputation and After-Sales Support

  Consider the brand's reputation for reliability, durability, and performance. A reputable brand can provide a reliable tuk-tuk with fewer breakdowns and maintenance issues. Additionally, brands with a wide service network can provide spare parts and maintenance services, ensuring the tuk-tuk stays in good condition.

• Size and Capacity

  Different tuk-tuk models have various sizes and capacities. Choose a tuk-tuk size that can navigate the intended area easily. If the business requires transporting more passengers or goods, opt for a tuk-tuk model with higher seating capacity or cargo space.

• Comfort and Safety

  If the primary function of the tuk-tuk is passenger transport, prioritizing comfort features is essential. Features like comfortable seating arrangements, adequate legroom, air conditioning or ventilation systems can enhance passenger comfort and satisfaction. Safety features such as seat belts, roll cages, and good visibility should also be considered when choosing a tuk-tuk.

• Customization and Accessories

  Consider the availability of customization options and accessories to suit specific business needs. Customization options such as branding, color choices, and additional features like cargo racks, sound systems, or advertising panels can make the tuk-tuk more tailored to the business. Additionally, accessories like GPS systems, luggage compartments, or audio-visual entertainment systems can enhance functionality and convenience.

How to DIY and Replace Tuk Tuk in the Philippines

Here’s a step-by-step guide for replacing a tuk tuk in the Philippines:

• Safety precautions

  Before starting any maintenance or repair work, ensure the tuk tuk is parked on a flat surface and the engine is turned off. Engage the parking brake and use wheel chocks to prevent unintended movement. Wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, to protect against hazards. Identify the specific component that needs replacement and refer to the owner's manual or service manual to understand the replacement procedure. Gather the necessary tools and replacement parts before starting the repair. This ensures a smooth workflow and reduces downtime.

• Prepare the vehicle

  Clear the work area around the tuk tuk to have enough space to operate. Ensure there is adequate lighting to see the components being worked on. If working underneath the vehicle, use appropriate lifting equipment, such as a hydraulic jack and jack stands, to raise the tuk tuk safely.

• Remove the old part

  Use the appropriate tools to disconnect any electrical connections, hoses, or cables associated with the component being replaced. Take note of the routing and connections to facilitate reinstallation. Remove any mounting bolts, nuts, or clips that secure the old component in place. Carefully remove the component, taking care not to damage surrounding parts.

• Install the new part

  Position the new component in the correct location and align mounting points. Secure it using bolts, nuts, or clips, and tighten the fasteners to the specified torque using a torque wrench. Reconnect any electrical connections, hoses, or cables disconnected during the removal process. Ensure proper routing and secure connections to prevent leaks or malfunctions.

• Final checks

  Before starting the engine, double-check that all connections, fasteners, and components are properly installed. Ensure there are no loose parts or potential hazards. Start the engine and perform a visual inspection to check for leaks, unusual noises, or abnormal behavior related to the replaced component. Take the tuk tuk for a test drive to ensure everything functions properly and to verify the repair.

Q and A

Q1: Are electric Tricycles better than petrol and diesel-powered tricycles?

A1: Electric-powered tricycles are environmentally friendly and cheap to maintain compared to petrol and diesel-powered tricycles. They also have less noise, which is good for the environment.

Q2: Can tuk-tuks be used for long-distance travel?

A2: Tuk-tuks can be used for long-distance travel, but it's essential to take breaks and refuel or recharge as needed because they are not designed for high-speed prolonged performance.

Q3: What is the maximum speed of a tuk-tuk?

A3: The maximum speed of a tuk-tuk is 40-60km/h. However, the speed varies depending on the model and the condition of the tuk-tuk.

Q4: Can tuk-tuks be used for cargo transport?

A4: Tuk-tuks can be used for cargo transport. There are tuk-tuk models designed specifically for cargo transport with a more significant loading capacity.

Q5: Is it easy to drive a tuk-tuk?

A5: Yes, it is easy to drive a tuk-tuk. It is straightforward to drive a tuk-tuk, and no specific license is required. However, one needs to undergo training and get accustomed to the controls before driving a tuk-tuk.