The Toyota Tamaraw of the late 70s and early 80s has become part of the Filipino pop culture. Its name alone evokes feeling of nostalgia. A throwback to a time when life was slow and oh, so mellow.

Maybe that's why Toyota Tamaraw has stood through the years. It has always retained its functionality as it kept up with the times. Truly a multi-function vehicle for the working-class,

Just recently, Toyota Motor Philippines unveiled an amazing new concept vehicle that marks yet another return of the well-loved nameplate back to the country.

The next-generation Tamaraw, also referred to as the IMV-0 (Zero) concept, is set to be produced in the Philippines at the Santa Rosa Manufacturing Plant in 2024.

This announcement was made during Toyota's 35th-anniversary celebration, reflecting the brand's continuing commitment to the economy and progress of the country through its innovation and flexibility.

The new, advanced platform emphasizes the use of eco-friendly powertrains like cleaner diesels, hybrid systems, fully electric powertrains, or even possibly hydrogen fuel cell or hydrogen combustion.

It's designed with flexibility, allowing the rear to accommodate various bodies like passenger cabs, pickup beds, refrigerated vans, or even a modern PUV form.

The front bumper is made of three separate pieces, emphasizing the platform's modularity and ease of maintenance.

Moreover, the next-generation Tamaraw will be assembled at Toyota's Sta. Rosa, Laguna plant starting next year, with an expected investment of P4.4 billion in the country, according to Toyota Motor Corporation chairman Akio Toyoda, who flew in to partake in the celebrations.

The vehicle is designed with almost infinite ways to use it, from selling goods such as flowers, a mobile coffee shop, or even a materials hauler. The styling of the vehicle is based around its function. The bonnet may be equipped with optional hard points that can be used as tie-down connections.

But whatever final form the vehicle may take, the goal with the Tamaraw is to make it as affordable and accessible as possible, suitable for real use and compatible with the Filipino way of life.

During Toyota's 35th Anniversary celebration held at the Grand Hyatt in BGC, Taguig City, The Tamaraw Concept was introduced in two possible versions: a sporty, street tuned pickup and a concept for a modern PUV jeepney, a nod to one of the original Tamaraw's popular uses.

The street pickup, inspired by Thailand's lowrider pickup scene, is equipped with a 2GD-FTV engine, a race clutch, limited slip differential and roll cage.

It is most unlikely that we will see a production model, but the concept is meant to showcase the possibilities of the platform.

Meanwhile, the concept PUV jeepney version is equipped with LED signboards, step boards, electronic door, air-conditioning, WiFi connectivity, CCTV, transport card support, LED lighting and seating for 10 people.