Photos by Sam Surla
Jetour Auto Philippines rolled out another head-turner for the local streets with the launch of the T1 Lightning i-DM yesterday at Okada Manila. The event spanned an impressive 9,000 square meters and gathered nearly 400 guests, including dealer principals, Jetour Auto International executives, officers from Jetour distributor United Asia Automotive Group Inc (UAAGI), Jetour Auto Philippines Inc (JAPI) directors, Jetour brand ambassadors, media representatives, bank partners, and the very first Jetour T1 Lightning i-DM customers.
The day’s activities began with a press conference at Okada’s Glass Ballroom, where guests had the opportunity to engage with key executives. Ke Chuandeng, President of Jetour Auto International, graced the occasion alongside Miguelito Jose, Managing Director of JAPI, and Rommel Sytin, Chairman of UAAGI. Throughout the day, attendees were given the chance to experience the new vehicle firsthand through exclusive test drives held at the Boardwalk area.
During the media discussion, the panel highlighted Jetour’s continued commitment to delivering intelligent mobility solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of Filipino motorists. The leaders also emphasized the brand’s long-term vision for the Philippines — one that aligns cutting-edge technology with accessible luxury and sustainable innovation.
The official launch program commenced in the evening, transforming The Cove Manila into an immersive showcase of art, emotion, and technology. The festivities began with welcome remarks from Timothy Sytin, Jetour Executive Director, followed by inspiring messages from Jetour International President Ke Chuandeng and Jetour Auto Philippines Chairman Rommel Sytin.
The program paid homage to local culture with a captivating Kulintang performance, followed by modern Filipino dances that captured the event’s core message: a harmonious meeting of the country’s rich cultural roots and Jetour’s vision of the future. The highlight of the evening was the formal presentation of the Jetour T1 Lightning i-DM by Miguelito Jose, who detailed the vehicle’s groundbreaking features.
Event host James Deakin conducted a live demonstration and walkaround of the Jetour Smartwatch, an exclusive companion device designed to integrate seamlessly with the T1 Lightning i-DM. Deakin showcased the smartwatch’s intelligent control capabilities, including remote engine start, keyless entry, window and trunk operation, as well as its comprehensive fitness, lifestyle, and health monitoring features.
As a special introductory offer, the first 100 customers who purchases the Jetour T1 Lightning i-DM will receive a complimentary Jetour Smartwatch, underscoring the brand’s commitment to integrating smart mobility with modern living.
The “i-DM” in the name Jetour T1 Lightning i-DM stands for “intelligent Dual Motor,” which is a sophisticated hybrid powertrain combining a 1.5-liter gasoline engine generating 140 hp and 215 Nm of torque with a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Electric Motor that adds 150kw of power and 310 Nm of torque, all managed by a DHT Hybrid-Dedicated Gearbox. This powerhouse is built on an Ultra-Safe Cage Body Structure with Integrated Laser Tailoring for maximum occupant protection.
Inside, the T1 Lightning i-DM is a sanctuary of comfort and technology. It features a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel and a 15.6-inch centre control LCD screen. Passengers are protected from the elements by 9-Layer Sun Protection Glass and 5-Layer Soundproof Glass. Unique features like Adaptive Ventilation, which adjusts based on body weight, and a 24-hour parked air conditioning function redefine in-car comfort. The vehicle’s 26.7 kWh battery supports fast DC charging, reaching 30% to 80% capacity in just 30 minutes.
Safety-wide, the vehicle boasts a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. This includes a full array of airbags, ISOFIX anchors, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as Corner Brake Control (CBC), Traction Control, Hill Assist, and Stability Control. The suite is further enhanced with Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Front Collision Warning (FCW) with Active Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and a 540° Panoramic Image system for complete situational awareness.
“The Jetour T1 Lightning i-DM represents more than just advanced technology — it represents our respect for local heritage and our dedication to shaping a sustainable future,” said Rommel Sytin
“Bringing this vehicle to the Philippines is both a celebration and a promise — a celebration of how far we’ve come, and a promise of where Jetour is headed with the Filipino people,” added Miguelito Jose.
The Jetour T1 Lightning i-DM is now available with prices starting from 1,898,000 PHP. It comes in five colors: Night Black, Sand Gold, Electroplated Green, Silver Snow, and Khaki White.
