Basketball player Kobe Paras has joined his father Benjie and brother Andre as a brand ambassador for BAIC Philippines, which places one of the country’s most recognizable sports families under the same automotive name.

The chance to work with his family played a major part in Kobe’s decision to accept the partnership.

“The fact that our BAIC family wanted to get not just me, but my brother and dad, to be a part of it. Being able to work with them is always a dream of mine,” Kobe said.

His role also comes after his first experience as a hybrid vehicle owner. Kobe admitted that he had doubts about electrified cars because he did not know enough about the technology.

That changed when he began using his BAIC hybrid.

“I used to be very hesitant about hybrid and electric vehicles because I wasn’t educated enough on it,” he said. “But now that I am a proud hybrid owner, I can wholeheartedly say that it was the best decision for me and my family.”

Lower fuel expenses have become one of the main benefits for Kobe. His car also serves as a comfortable place to spend time during long trips through Metro Manila traffic.

“I was really impressed. It was my first time driving a hybrid vehicle, and it honestly made me realize that I was missing out this whole time,” Kobe said.

Sport mode has become his favorite feature. He believes some motorists still expect hybrid and electric vehicles to feel dull compared with conventional cars. His BAIC gave him a different impression.

“I love the sport mode,” he said. “The sport mode in my BAIC car makes me feel like I’m driving a sports car, not because it’s fast, but because the interior is also so stylish.”

His brother Andre also helped shape his expectations before the switch. Kobe recalled Andre’s line, “Your expectations, your disappointment,” but said his experience with the vehicle has been positive from the start.

BAIC Philippines currently offers a wide selection of SUVs and crossovers. Its electrified models include the B30e Dune Hybrid Off-Roader, B40e TrailMaster rEV and B60e Beaumont rEV.

Diesel-powered choices include the B40 Ragnar and B60 Beaumont, while the range also covers the B40 Pro TrailMaster, B80 Wagon and X55 Verve.

The selection suits Kobe’s varied schedule, which can involve city errands, family time and trips outside Metro Manila. However, he said comfort and fuel savings have proved more useful than any single specification during everyday use.

“Living in Manila means you have to accept the fact that you will be stuck in traffic no matter what,” he said. “When I’m going out to do my errands, I find peace and comfort in knowing that it will be such a pleasant drive.”

Kobe also connected with BAIC’s “Drive Big” campaign, which he sees as an invitation to stay curious, think ambitiously and make the most of life. Family is central to that outlook, especially now that he can share another professional project with his father and brother.

He said buyers often feel that they must choose between comfort and style when shopping for a vehicle. His experience with BAIC convinced him that both can come in the same package.

The partnership gives BAIC another familiar face as it builds its presence in the country. In Kobe’s case, it also turns his first step into hybrid ownership into a family affair.