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{{Short description|Type of public utility vehicle in the Philippines}}
{{Redirect|Baby bus|the aircraft with the same nickname|Airbus A318}}
{{For|the Filipino cable TV channel|Jeepney TV}}
{{Use Philippine English|date=July 2020}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=September 2024}}
[[File:Jeepney, Magallanes Drive, Intramuros, 2018 (02).jpg|thumb|upright=1.35|A traditional jeepney in [[Intramuros]]]]

A '''jeepney''' ({{IPA|tl|ˈdʒiːpni|lang}}), or simply a '''jeep''' ({{IPA|tl|ˈdʒiːp|lang}}), is a type of [[Public transport|public utility]] vehicle (PUV) that serves as the most popular means of [[Transportation in the Philippines|public transportation]] in the [[Philippines]].<ref>{{cite news| first1=Karen | last1=Lema| title=Manila's jeepney pioneer fears the end of the road| url=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyleMolt/idUSMAN1276320071120| date=November 20, 2007| access-date=February 27, 2008| work=Reuters| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208231750/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-philippines-jeepney-idUSMAN1276320071120| archive-date = December 8, 2015| url-status = live}}</ref> Known for its crowded seating and [[kitsch]] decorations, it is a [[cultural icon]] of the Philippines<ref>{{cite web |last1=Bohol |first1=Gabriel |title=The evolution of the Jeepney: Why it doesn’t need to be phased-out |url=https://www.tatlerasia.com/lifestyle/gear/the-enduring-journey-of-the-jeepney-from-wwii-to-today |website=[[Tatler|Tatler Asia]] |access-date=28 October 2024 |language=en}}</ref> and has its own art, "Jeepney art".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://stuartxchange.org/Jeepney.html |title=The Philippine Jeepney: The Undisputed King of the Road |first=Godofredo U. |last=Stuart |work=StuartXChange |location=The Philippines |access-date=May 13, 2016}}</ref> At the [[1964 New York World's Fair]], a [[Sarao Motors|Sarao]] jeepney was exhibited in the Philippine pavilion as a national symbol for Filipinos.<ref name=LP>{{cite web |url=http://www.laspinascity.gov.ph/lifestyle-sarao.html |title=Lifestyle Sarao Jeepney |publisher=The City of Las Piñas |location=The Philippines |access-date=May 13, 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160507000228/http://laspinascity.gov.ph/lifestyle-sarao.html |archive-date=May 7, 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last1=Mercado|first1=Leonardo N.|chapter-url=http://www.crvp.org/book/Series03/III-8/chapter_x.htm|title=The Filipino Mind|volume=Philosophical Studies II|chapter=Chapter X: Microcosms, THE JEEPNEY AS MICROCOSM|publisher=Council for Research in Values and Philosophy|editor1=George F. McLean|series=Cultural Heritage & Contemporary Change|year=1994|isbn=978-1-56518-063-5|url=http://www.crvp.org/book/Series03/III-8/contents.htm|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303014152/http://www.crvp.org/book/Series03/III-8/contents.htm|archive-date=March 3, 2016}}</ref>

Jeepneys originate from the [[History of the Philippines (1898–1946)|American colonial period]]–[[share taxi]]s known as "auto [[kalesa|calesas]]", commonly shortened to "AC". These evolved to modified imported cars with attached carriages in the 1930s which served as a cheap passenger [[utility vehicle]]s in [[Manila]]. These vehicles were mostly destroyed in [[World War II]]. The need for replacement transport vehicles led to the use of [[US military|U.S. military]] [[Willys MB|jeeps]] left over from the war, which became the template for the modern jeepney.<ref>{{cite journal| last1=Otsuka| first1=Keijiro| first2=Masao| last2=Kikuchi| first3=Yujiro| last3=Hayami| date=January 1986| title=Community and Market in Contract Choice: The Jeepney in the Philippines| journal=Economic Development and Cultural Change| volume=34| issue=2| pages=279–298| doi=10.1086/451528| jstor=1153851| s2cid=155062784}}</ref> A [[Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program|jeepney modernization program]] launched by the [[Department of Transportation (Philippines)|Department of Transportation]] in 2017 seeks to use more environmentally-friendly vehicles, but has raised concerns regarding the preservation of the jeepney's iconic look as most modern jeepneys resemble regular minibuses.<ref name="GMANews-Icon" />

As of 2022, there were an estimated 600,000 drivers nationwide dependent on driving jeepneys for their livelihood.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Alegado |first1=Siegfrid |last2=Calonzo |first2=Andreo |date=December 21, 2020 |title=Manila's Iconic Jeepneys Are One More Casualty of the Pandemic |language=en |work=Bloomberg |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-12-21/coronavirus-recession-keeps-the-philippines-jeepneys-off-the-road |access-date=June 30, 2022}}</ref> In [[Metro Manila]], an estimated nine million commuters take the jeepney each day.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=January 15, 2024 |title=Inquirer.net explains why jeepney drivers, operators defy modernization plan |url=https://cmfr-phil.org/media-ethics-responsibility/journalism-review/inquirer-net-explains-why-jeepney-drivers-operators-defy-modernization-plan/ |access-date=January 15, 2024 |website=Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility |language=en}}</ref>
 
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==Etymology==
The word ''jeepney'' is a [[portmanteau]] of post–[[World War II]] "[[jeep]]" and pre-war "[[Dollar van|jitney]]", both words common slang in the popular vernacular of the era.<ref name="Rimmer">{{cite book |last1=Rimmer |first1=Peter J. |title=Rikisha to Rapid Transit: Urban Public Transport Systems and Policy in Southeast Asia |date=2013 |publisher=Elsevier |isbn=9781483150529 |page=172 |author-link=Peter J. Rimmer}}</ref><ref name="Gold">{{cite book |last1=Gold |first1=David L. |title=Studies in Etymology and Etiology: With Emphasis on Germanic, Jewish, Romance and Slavic Languages |date=2009 |publisher=Universidad de Alicante |isbn=9788479085179 |page=177}}</ref><ref name=LP /><ref>{{cite web| url=http://automobile19.blogspot.com/2012/04/history-of-philippine-jeepney.html| title=History of the Philippine Jeepney| date=April 12, 2012| access-date=October 10, 2014}}</ref>

== History ==
[[File:Willys Jeep 1943.jpg|thumb|A 1943 [[Willys]] Jeep, the basis for the design of jeepneys]]

From the [[History of the Philippines (1898–1946)|American colonial period]] up to shortly after [[World War II]], jeepneys were known as "auto calesa" (or "AC" for short), named after the horse-drawn [[calesa]]s of [[Manila]], or simply "[[Share taxi|jitney]]" or "baby bus." The term "auto calesa" was first attested in 1910, and originally referred to relatively cheap imported cars that were used as [[share taxi]]s by local drivers for {{Philippine peso|2|1910|link=yes}} an hour. The first automobile to be modified for seating more passengers was introduced in 1932 by a Filipino entrepreneur, using cheap imported German [[DKW]] vehicles with side-entry carriages attached. These were operated by the DKW-AC Company.<ref name="Ragodon">{{cite news |last1=Ragodon |first1=Richard Wilhelm |title=The jeepney's long farewell |url=https://www.topgear.com.ph/features/feature-articles/jeepney-modernization-2018-a52-20171221 |access-date=December 6, 2020 |work=Top Gear Philippines |date=December 21, 2017}}</ref><ref name="lougopal"/><ref name="pdi">{{cite news |title=Dethroning the 'King of the Road' |url=https://pressreader.com/article/281852938810855 |access-date=December 6, 2020 |newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer|date=October 22, 2017}}</ref>

By the mid-1930s, [[Emil Bachrach]], a [[Russian American]] entrepreneur in the Philippines (who also owned the [[Ford Motor Co.]] franchise in the Philippines, as well as Manila's first bus company), started the Bachrach Motor Company (BMC). They began manufacturing similar vehicles known as the BMC-AC. Unlike the DKW-ACs, they had a back-entry carriage style (similar to the ''carretela''-type ''calesa'') that was joined seamlessly with the chassis. It seated two people on each side. The automobiles used were cheap imported British [[Austin 7]]s and later on, [[American Austin Car Company|American Bantam]]s, both of which are the direct precursors of the [[Jeep]]. They later expanded to seat eight to ten people but were still much shorter than modern jeepneys.<ref name="Ragodon"/><ref name="Rimmer"/><ref name="lougopal">{{cite news |title=Emil Bachrach – Bachrach Motors |url=http://www.lougopal.com/manila/?p=3459 |access-date=December 6, 2020|first=Lou|last=Gopal |work=Manila Nostalgia |date=September 24, 2015}}</ref><ref name="Chiu">{{cite book |last1=Chiu |first1=Imes |title=The Evolution from Horse to Automobile: A Comparative International Study |date=2008 |publisher=Cambria Press |isbn=9781604975468 |pages=224–229 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ljjkgpX2FZUC&pg=PA224}}</ref> Most of these vehicles were destroyed in [[World War II]].<ref>{{cite news |title=History of the Jeepney the Truth and the British Connection |url=https://britsinthephilippines.top/history-of-the-jeepney-the-truth-and-the-british-connection/ |access-date=December 6, 2020 |work=Brits in the Philippines |date=August 11, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200926213023/https://britsinthephilippines.top/his| archive-date=September 26, 2020}}</ref><ref name="Iddings">{{cite journal |last1=Iddings |first1=P.L. |title=From Manila |journal=Automotive News the News of the Industry |date=1941 |volume=16 |issue=2675 |page=6 (598) |url=https://archive.org/details/sim_automotive-news_1941-06-30_16_2675/page/n5/mode/2up}}</ref>

When American troops began to leave the Philippines at the end of [[World War II]], hundreds of [[Surplus product|surplus]] Jeeps were sold or given to the [[Filipino people|Filipinos]]. An American soldier named [[Stonehill scandal|Harry Stonehill]] was involved in the disposal of [[military surplus]], and reportedly created a black market for the surplus including jeeps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://juliuswillis.com/2015/08/17/harry-stonehill-his-enterprise-helped-him-build-a-business-empire-his-recklessness-and-lack-of-political-finesse-brought-it-all-down/|title=Harry Stonehill: enterprise helped him build a business empire, recklessness and lack of political finesse brought it all down|publisher=JULIUS C. WILLIS JR: Our World Today!|date=August 17, 2015|access-date=November 23, 2017}}</ref>

[[File:9703Town Centre Bulacan Baliuag 37.jpg|thumb|An "owner"-type jeep]]

The Jeeps were stripped down and altered locally: metal roofs were added for shade, and the vehicles were decorated in vibrant colours with [[Chrome plating|chrome-plated]] ornaments on the sides and hood. The back part was reconfigured with two long parallel benches with passengers facing each other to accommodate more passengers.{{efn | 1 = In addition, when all seating capacity is used (perhaps 10 or 11 passengers on each side) then up to three small wooden stools, euphemistically called 'extensions', are placed along the centre-line, with two passengers on each, sitting back to back.}} The size, length, and passenger capacity have increased as it evolved through the years. In assembly-built jeepneys (notably, those built by [[Sarao Motors]] and [[Francisco Motors Corporation|Francisco Motors]]), the passenger capacity reached a maximum of fourteen to eighteen (including two up front). These high-capacity jeepneys were the first versions to be referred to as "Public Utility Jeepneys" (PUJ) or "passenger-type" jeeps.<ref name="Rimmer"/> The non-extended, original-seat configuration jeeps were labeled "owners", short for "owner-type" jeeps, and are used non-commercially. To distinguish it from those used as public transportation, the term "owner" is used.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lumangoto.com/slammed-owner-jeep-a-filipino-version-of-the-hotrod/|title=Slammed Owner Jeep – A Filipino Version of the Hotrod|date=November 24, 2018}}</ref> The original jeepneys were refurbished military Jeeps by [[Willys]] and [[Ford Motor Company|Ford]]. Modern jeepneys are now produced with engines and other parts from Japan or South Korea.

The jeepney rapidly emerged as a popular and creative way to re-establish inexpensive public transportation, much of which had been destroyed during World War II. Recognizing the widespread use of these vehicles, the [[Government of the Philippines|Philippine government]] began to regulate their use. Drivers now must have special driver's licenses. Routes are regulated and prices are fixed fares. Illegal (unfranchised) operators are referred to as "[[wikt:colorum|''colorum'']]" operations.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sp.bulacan.gov.ph/generalinfo/LocalLegislators'Toolkit.pdf|title=Local Legislators' Toolkit (page 154)|publisher=Philippines-Canada Local Government Support Program (LGSP)|date=2004|access-date=November 23, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171215071853/http://sp.bulacan.gov.ph/generalinfo/LocalLegislators'Toolkit.pdf|archive-date=December 15, 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Jeepneys have been reported to be exported to Papua New Guinea to replace buses and vans that are too costly to import.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://gulfnews.com/news/uae/general/png-eyes-jeepneys-for-its-transport-1.363954 |title=PNG eyes 'Jeepneys' for its transport |work=Gulf News |date=August 20, 2003 |access-date=July 15, 2017}}</ref><ref name="NS">{{cite news |url=http://www.newsflash.org/2004/02/pe/pe002871.htm |title=The good news: RP exports jeepneys |first=Sol Jose |last=Vanzi |work=News Flash |date=March 1, 2004 |access-date=July 15, 2017 |archive-date=June 4, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120604020053/http://www.newsflash.org/2004/02/pe/pe002871.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref> 4,000 jeepneys were exported to Papua New Guinea in 2004 with considerations to export them to Guam, India and Vietnam.<ref name="NS" />

Recently, the jeepney industry has faced threats to its survival. Most of the larger builders have gone bankrupt or have switched to manufacturing other products, with the smaller builders forced to go out of business. Jeepney drivers also face rising cost of living and rising cost of diesel fuel due to government deregulation of oil prices.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://bulatlat.com/news/5-11/5-11-drivers.htm| title=Drivers' Income Nosedives as Oil Price Soars| first1=Alexander Martin |last1=Remollino| date=April 24–30, 2005| access-date=October 9, 2014| work=Bulatlat| volume=V| issue=11| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061114051938/http://www.bulatlat.com/news/5-11/5-11-drivers.htm| archive-date=November 14, 2006| url-status=dead}}</ref> A 2017 study<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cleanairasia.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Jeepney-CB-Study.pdf|title=Alternative Technologies for the Philippine Utility Jeepney|publisher=Blacksmith Institute and Clean Air Asia Center|date=2016|access-date=November 23, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171117220647/http://cleanairasia.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Jeepney-CB-Study.pdf|archive-date=November 17, 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> published in a Metro Manila newspaper compared the fuel use of a 16-passenger jeepney to a 54-passenger air-conditioned bus and found that the fuel consumption for both was the same, while no data was given for private vehicles.

The planned construction of [[bus rapid transit]] (BRT) systems in [[Manila]] and [[Cebu]] might lead to the removal of jeepneys.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://motioncars.inquirer.net/30051/bus-rapid-transit-system-planned-for-metro-manila-cebu| title=Bus Rapid Transit system planned for Metro Manila, Cebu| first1=Miguel R. |last1=Camus|newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer| date=July 4, 2014| access-date=October 9, 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140704214743/http://motioncars.inquirer.net/30051/bus-rapid-transit-system-planned-for-metro-manila-Cebu| archive-date=July 4, 2014| url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.mb.com.ph/bus-rapid-transit-system-eyed-in-metro-manila/| title=Bus rapid transit system eyed in Metro Manila| first1=Kris |last1=Bayos|work=Manila Bulletin| date=March 21, 2014| access-date=October 9, 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140712104352/http://www.mb.com.ph/bus-rapid-transit-system-eyed-in-metro-manila| archive-date=July 12, 2014| url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/local-news/2013/04/20/cebu-s-bus-transit-being-tested-ncr-278526| title=Cebu's bus transit being tested in NCR| first1=Rebelander S. |last1=Basilan|work=SunStar Cebu| date=April 20, 2013| access-date=October 9, 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130422095828/http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/local-news/2013/04/20/cebu-s-bus-transit-being-tested-ncr-278526| archive-date=April 22, 2013| url-status=dead}}</ref>

During the [[COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines]], public buses and jeepneys were subject to strict lockdown measures that affected the livelihoods of those in the transport sector. Jeepney drivers struggled with the effects of lockdowns and other disease containment measures.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tarinay |first=Rein |date=April 15, 2021 |title=Jeepney drivers still no route of hope |url=https://www.bulatlat.com/2021/04/15/jeepney-drivers-still-no-route-of-hope/ |access-date=February 23, 2023 |website=Bulatlat |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Adonis |first=Meg |date=June 4, 2020 |title=6 jeepney drivers protesting loss of livelihood face raps |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1285949/6-jeepney-drivers-protesting-loss-of-livelihood-face-raps |access-date=February 23, 2023 |newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer |language=en}}</ref> In 2020, jeepney drivers filed a case with the Supreme Court against the government's COVID-19 policies, which they argue were prejudicial to their livelihood and deprived them of income to provide for their families.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Torres-Tupas |first=Tetch |date=September 29, 2020 |title=Jeepney drivers, senior citizens challenge govt's COVID-19 policy before SC |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1341675/jeepney-drivers-senior-citizens-challenge-govts-covid-19-policy-before-sc |access-date=February 23, 2023 |newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer |language=en}}</ref>

===Fleet modernization===
{{Main|Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program}}
{{See also|2017–2019 transport strikes in the Philippines|2023–2024 transport strikes in the Philippines}}
{{Update section|date=August 2022}}

In 2016, the [[Department of Transportation (Philippines)|Department of Transportation]] imposed an age limit on jeepneys of 15 years, with older jeepneys starting to be phased out.<ref>{{cite news |last=Periabras |first=Rosalie C. |title=DOTC, PUJ operators tackle jeepney modernization |url=http://www.manilatimes.net/dotc-puj-operators-tackle-jeepney-modernization/206792/ |work=The Manila Times|date=August 5, 2015 |access-date=April 26, 2016}}</ref> Many jeepney operators oppose the phase-out, and George San Mateo, leader of the "No to Jeepney Phaseout" Coalition, called the modernization program "corrupt".<ref>{{cite news |last1=Badilla |first1=Nielson S. |title=Groups to protest jeepney phaseout |url=http://www.manilatimes.net/groups-to-protest-jeepney-phaseout/242408/ |work=The Manila Times|access-date=April 26, 2016 |date=January 31, 2016}}</ref> [[Leyte (province)|Leyte]] Representative [[Martin Romualdez]] urged the [[Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board]] (LTFRB) to drop its jeepney modernization program.<ref>{{cite news |last=De Vera |first=Ellalyn |title=LTFRB urged to shelve planned phaseout of traditional jeepneys |url=http://www.mb.com.ph/ltfrb-urged-to-shelve-planned-phaseout-of-traditional-jeepneys/ |work=Manila Bulletin|date=April 17, 2016 |access-date=April 26, 2016}}</ref> As part of the PUV modernization program all new and existing vehicles must be fitted with a tap card system which allows commuters to pay for their trip.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.topgear.com.ph/news/motoring-news/tap-card-payment-system-jeepney-a00013-20171013|title=Can a 'tap card' payment system convince you to take jeepneys again?|work=Top Gear Philippines|access-date=April 17, 2018}}</ref> After multiple failed attempts at implementation and crippling technical issues surrounding the existing Beep Card many of the proposed systems were rejected by the [[Department of Transportation (Philippines)|Department of Transportation]] (DOTr).<ref>{{Cite web |date=April 3, 2018 |title=DOTr launches PUV Modernization Expo |url=https://sg.news.yahoo.com/dotr-launches-puv-modernization-expo-001615417.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180403013627/https://sg.news.yahoo.com/dotr-launches-puv-modernization-expo-001615417.html |archive-date=April 3, 2018 |website=Yahoo News}}</ref> Additionally, all Jeepney Drivers and Operators are urged to form or become a member of a Transport Cooperative or consolidated franchise as part of the modernization program.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Dela Cruz |first=Raymond Carl |date=May 12, 2021 |title=Consolidated franchises under PUV modernization now 95K |language=en |work=[[Philippine News Agency]] |url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1140020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210512101632/https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1140020 |archive-date=May 12, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=February 2, 2021 |title=PUV modernization rules eased |work=[[Malaya (newspaper)|Malaya]] |url=https://malaya.com.ph/news_business/puv-modernization-rules-eased/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221024220358/https://malaya.com.ph/news_business/puv-modernization-rules-eased/?amp |archive-date=October 24, 2022}}</ref>

== Design ==
[[File:Philippine jeepney.jpg|thumb|A jeepney ready for decoration]]
[[File:Passad Jeepney.JPG|thumb|A facelift of [[Mitsubishi L200]] ''passad'' jeepney of [[Iloilo City]]]]
[[File:Multicab in Camiguin.jpg|thumb|A [[Kei truck]]-based derivative jeepney called [[multicab]]]]

Body designs of jeepneys vary by region. Some are plainly colored, while others can use massive variety. Some jeepneys can be decorated with stickers or spray paint, with designs consisting of caricatures, illustrations, or pictures inspired by popular cultures, such as actors and actresses, cartoons, [[anime]]s, comics, games, or movie characters, abstract designs and lines, religious icons, and others.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://theculturetrip.com/asia/philippines/articles/15-crazy-colourful-jeepney-designs-in-the-philippines/|title=15 Crazy Colourful Jeepney Designs in The Philippines|first=Katrina|last=Escalona|website=Culture Trip|date=November 29, 2017}}</ref>

In the central island of [[Cebu]], the bulk of jeepneys are built from second-hand Japanese trucks, originally intended for cargo.{{cn|date=May 2025}} These are euphemistically known as "surplus trucks". Popular jeepney manufacturers in Cebu are Chariot and RDAK, known for its "flat-nosed" jeepneys made from surplus [[Suzuki Carry]] (also known as [[multicab]]) and [[Isuzu Elf]] trucks, which are no longer in use in Japan owing to [[road tax]] and obsolescence in their country of origin.{{cn|date=May 2025}} These are equipped with high-powered sound systems, and racing themes, and are said to be bigger and taller than those in Manila.{{cn|date=May 2025}}

In Bulacan, particularly in the city of Malolos, shorter extended "owner" jeeps called "Karatig" are used for short-distance, inter-city transportation. The size varies, with approximately {{convert|3|m|sp=us}} of passenger space which is longer than and can seat at least twice as many passengers as private-use "owner" jeeps. The "Karatigs" are less ergonomic and fuel-efficient compared to the more standard-size public utility jeeps dominating the rest of the country. Despite this awkward size, "Karatig" jeeps' unique and even "cute" size has become an icon contributing to the culture and experience of Bulacan public transportation.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Maño |first=OJ |date=May 1, 2018 |title=The MALOLOS KARATIG JEEPNEY: The Ingenious Little Jeepneys - Bulakenyo.ph |url=https://www.bulakenyo.ph/malolos-karatig-jeepney-ingenious-little-jeepneys/ |access-date=October 20, 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref>

Nelson-type jeepneys are manufactured in [[Davao City]] and are known there as "uso-uso". The designs of these jeepneys are very different from the traditional style. These jeepneys feature modern front grille and body designs, lowered ride height, and industrial-quality paint jobs.{{cn|date=May 2025}} Newer models of Nelson-type jeepneys feature chrome wheels, equipped with radial tubeless tires. They are almost always equipped with a powerful stereo system, so they are often referred to as "mobile discos."{{cn|date=May 2025}}

Many manufacturers are moving to build modern-looking jeepneys such as [[Hummer]] and [[Jeep Wrangler|Jeep Wrangler Rubicon]] lookalikes and oversized van-style passenger jeepneys with headlights, hoods, bumpers and other components salvaged from AUVs and [[sport utility vehicle]]s like the [[Honda]] [[CR-V]] or the [[Toyota Kijang|Toyota Tamaraw]].{{cn|date=May 2025}} In [[Iloilo City]], jeepneys called ''passad'' are known for bearing a resemblance to [[sedans]] or [[pickup trucks]], with the front fascia taken off an existing SUV or AUV. The vehicle's body has a much lower profile which resembles more of a [[Sedan (automobile)|sedan]] chassis with an elongated body.{{cn|date=May 2025}}

In the [[Cordillera Administrative Region]], especially in Baguio City and Benguet province, they have jeeps fitted with truck wheels, or jeeps based on a [[heavy truck]] platform, frame, and engine. The same goes for other parts of the Philippines with unpaved roads.

The launching of the jeepney modernization program raised concerns that the jeepney's iconic look would be erased by other designs that would make them look like buses.<ref name="GMANews-Icon" /> In response, the LTFRB reassured the public that modern jeepneys can retain their traditional look.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Dela Cruz |first1=Raymond Carl |title=LTFRB: Modern jeepney can keep traditional look |url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1196847 |access-date=29 October 2024 |work=[[Philippine News Agency]] |date=March 7, 2023}}</ref> Several lawmakers have pushed to retain the jeepney's iconic design in modern jeepneys.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sen. Tolentino pushes to retain iconic jeepney design in PUJ modernization |url=https://legacy.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2024/0113_tolentino1.asp |access-date=29 October 2024 |publisher=[[Senate of the Philippines]] |date=January 13, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Quismorio |first1=Ellson |title='Bahagi ng ating kultura': Solon appeals to keep iconic look of PUJs in modern jeeps |url=https://mb.com.ph/2023/03/10/bahagi-ng-ating-kultura-solon-appeals-to-keep-iconic-look-of-pujs-in-modern-jeeps |access-date=29 October 2024 |work=[[Manila Bulletin]] |date=March 10, 2023 |language=en}}</ref>

=== 2nd-generation jeepneys ===
{{Unsourced-section|date=October 2024}}

Fully assembled with refurbished engines, some also have [[air-conditioning]] units, which are popular in [[Makati]]. Most of these jeepneys have radically expanded passenger capacities, and are often flamboyant and noisy. Many jeepneys from this generation run on [[diesel fuel]], though very rarely with gasoline and [[liquefied petroleum gas]] (LPG).

Passenger jeepneys from this generation and beyond may employ tailgates especially if they traverse expressways. These are usually rigged mechanically to be controlled from the driver's side in lieu of electronic locking systems.

<gallery widths=200 heights=200>
File:Jeepney Interior.jpg|The interior of a second-generation jeepney
File:202403 A jeepney in Makati, Manila.jpg|An air-conditioned jeepney in [[Makati]]
File:Fairview Cubao Jeepney (cropped).jpg|A jeepney with a side door in [[Quezon City]]
</gallery>

=== 3rd-generation jeepneys ===
[[File:101Bacoor City Roads Landmarks 41.jpg|thumb|The [[Mitsubishi Delica#Asia|Mitsubishi L300]] has been a popular choice among entrepreneurs.]]

Two kinds of 3rd-generation jeepneys have surfaced over the years: Modernized jeepneys and truck-and-van-based jeepneys.

Modernized jeepneys are manufactured using new engine components and are built with air-conditioning, particularly with recent Euro 4 engine standards imposed in the country. Though some keep the traditional body of the contemporary jeepney, many of these closely resemble a [[minibus]]. Their doors may be situated at the side, or at the front, with doors functioning like that of an actual bus.

[[Chassis cab|Cab/chassis]] variants of jeepneys are based on [[pick-up truck]]s and [[van]] platforms wherein local coachbuilders assemble rear bodies for passenger and cargo hauling purposes. Their doors are situated at the back as a tailgate and usually have parallel bench seats that can be lifted for more cargo space and air conditioning that may be standard or optional to some car manufacturers. These kind of vehicles are referred to as FB-type vans.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.transportify.com.ph/l300-fb-type-for-express-shipping-service/ | title=FB-Type van }}</ref>

Early examples of the modern type of jeepney include the [[Toyota Kijang#Tamaraw|Toyota Tamaraw]], Ford Fiera, and the Mitsubishi Cimmaron (Which predates the Tamaraw and Fiera by a whole decade, introduced as far back as 1961) which had parallel benches offered standard by their respective manufacturers. They were introduced back in the 1970s and were an alternative to the aging jeepney.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.autoindustriya.com/features/the-auv-in-the-service-of-the-filipino.html|title = The AUV: In the service of the Filipino - Feature Stories|date = June 12, 2015}}</ref> Modern examples include the pick-up based [[Toyota Hilux]], [[Isuzu D-Max|ISUZU IPV]] and [[Mitsubishi Strada|Mitsubishi L200]] to the van-based [[Hyundai Porter|Hyundai H100]], [[Mitsubishi L300]], [[Kia Bongo|Kia K-2500 Karga]], [[Isuzu Traviz]] and even truck-based [[Mitsubishi Fuso Canter]], [[Hino Dutro]] and [[Isuzu N-Series]] to name a few.

Although they are often seen as [[Light commercial vehicle|commercial van]] rather than actual jeepneys, they are popularly used as school buses, delivery vehicles, and other modes of [[public transportation]], mainly [[UV Express]], though used sparingly in comparison to actual commercial vans such as the [[Toyota HiAce]] or the [[Nissan Caravan|Nissan Urvan]].

=== Modern jeepneys ===
{{Morerefs-section|date=October 2024}}
[[File:Mahindra Supro PUV in the Philippines.jpg|thumb|A [[Mahindra Maxximo|Mahindra Supro]] Class 1 jeepney]]

Modern jeepneys are an updated version of the third-generation models, featuring additional regulatory standards. These include standardized seating, increased vehicle height, CCTV, fare collection systems (both traditional and [[Beep (smart card)|Beep]]), speed limiters, GPS, and [[Wi-Fi]]. Typically, brand-new jeepneys of this generation are issued to transport cooperatives and are manufactured by major vehicle producers. However, some modern jeepneys are also built by coachbuilders, provided they adhere to the specified standards.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.carmudi.com.ph/journal/check-out-the-standard-dimensions-and-features-of-the-modern-jeepney/|title=Check Out the Standard Dimensions and Features of the Modern Jeepney|website=Carmudi Philippines}}</ref> Many modern jeepneys resemble truck vans in design and aesthetics, often featuring a hoodless front due to their industrial manufacturing process. This design choice makes them look more like buses than traditional jeepneys.<ref name="GMANews-Icon">{{cite news |last1=Cruz |first1=Hazel Jane |title=Jeepney: An icon of Filipino culture |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/lifestyle/news/108351/jeepney-an-icon-in-filipino-culture/story |access-date=29 October 2024 |work=[[GMA News Online]] |date=December 30, 2023 |language=en}}</ref>

There are at least 3 classifications categorized by manufacturers, Class 1 is based on vans or [[microvan]]s chassis cabs. Like 3rd-generation jeepneys, they have rear bodies made by coachbuilders, but the only difference is that they are taller in height and their passenger doors are now situated on the side. Classes 2 and 3 are based on [[Truck#Medium|medium-duty trucks]] (Often converted to a bus) or an actual minibus.

Class 1 and 2 PUVs have their seating configuration facing sidewards while Class 3 are front-facing seat configuration. For truck vans and minibuses, vehicle manufacturers/coachbuilders can sometimes offer both Class 2 and Class 3 configurations on their models.

=== E-jeepneys ===
[[File:0639Malolos Historic Town Center 24.jpg|thumb|An [[Isuzu Elf|Isuzu NLR77]] PUV coachbuilt by [[Almazora Motors|Almazora]]]]

Local [[automobile parts]] manufacturers are now planning the production of electric jeepneys.<ref>{{cite news| first1=Katrina Mennen A. |last1=Valdez| title=Partsmakers plan local assembly of electric jeepney| url=http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/25/yehey/business/20080125bus4.html|work=The Manila Times| date=January 25, 2008| access-date=February 27, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080128134741/http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/25/yehey/business/20080125bus4.html| archive-date=January 28, 2008| url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/a20686/can-the-worlds-worst-traffic-problem-be-solved/ |title=Can The World's Worst Traffic Problem Be Solved? |first=Greg |last=Lindsay |journal=Popular Mechanics |location=US |date=May 5, 2016 |access-date=May 13, 2016}}</ref> Electric jeepneys are now widely deployed in several parts of Metro Manila and in some provinces, either as a staple transportation that completely replaces conventional jeepneys or as a service vehicle. The deployments were in response to calls for reduced [[greenhouse gas emissions]] and the fluctuations in oil prices. E-jeepneys have come into the economic question as the average cost per kWh of electricity in the Philippines is unsustainable for owner-operators. However, considering the uncertainty in diesel prices, e-jeepneys seem more economical in the long run compared to diesel-fueled jeepneys.<ref name=":0">{{Cite journal|last1=Agaton|first1=Casper Boongaling|last2=Guno|first2=Charmaine Samala|last3=Villanueva|first3=Resy Ordona|last4=Villanueva|first4=Riza Ordona|date=September 2019|title=Diesel or Electric Jeepney? A Case Study of Transport Investment in the Philippines Using the Real Options Approach|journal=World Electric Vehicle Journal|language=en|volume=10|issue=3|pages=51|doi=10.3390/wevj10030051|doi-access=free}}</ref>

In early 2023, the [[Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board]] assured the public that the modernization program could retain the traditional jeepney's iconic look.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Dela Cruz |first1=Raymond Carl |title=TFRB: Modern jeepney can keep traditional look |url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1196847 |access-date=August 22, 2023 |work=[[Philippine News Agency]] |date=March 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230307092743/https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1196847 |archive-date=March 7, 2023}}</ref> Amid the proliferation of air-conditioned minibuses, often called "modern jeepneys", local companies such as Francisco Motor Corp. plan to modernize jeepneys while keeping the jeepney's traditional design intact.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Baroña |first1=Franco Jose C. |title=Modern jeepney to retain iconic look |url=https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/03/06/news/national/modern-jeepney-to-retain-iconic-look/1881450 |access-date=August 22, 2023 |work=[[The Manila Times]] |date=March 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230305193723/https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/03/06/news/national/modern-jeepney-to-retain-iconic-look/1881450 |archive-date=March 5, 2023 |language=en}}</ref>

== Advantages and disadvantages ==
The jeepney is the cheapest way to commute in the Philippines. Because of its open rear door design, picking up and dropping off is easy for both passengers and drivers, they can stop anywhere unlike buses. But also because of this convenience, some jeepney drivers are a source of traffic congestion by indiscriminately loading and unloading passengers in the middle of the street, blocking traffic and risking the safety of some passengers.<ref>{{Cite web|title=The Future of Jeepneys in the Philippines: Why it needs an upgrade|url=https://philkotse.com/market-news/the-future-of-jeepneys-in-the-philippines-why-it-needs-an-upgrade-3984|access-date=September 29, 2020|website=Philkotse.com|language=en}}</ref> Some drivers engage in practices such as jostling for passengers, blocking other jeepneys to pick up passengers in the middle of the lane, and trip-cutting. Trip-cutting involves not completing the designated route, often dropping off passengers if there are fewer than three remaining, in order to return to the jeepney stand and wait for a new set of passengers, as continuing the route would not be profitable for them.

Some jeepneys have distorted subframes and poor emissions.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://business.inquirer.net/81636/finally-a-cleaner-jeepney| title=Finally, a cleaner jeepney| first1=Jason K. | last1=Ang|newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer| date=September 12, 2012| access-date=October 9, 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120915004211/http://business.inquirer.net/81636/finally-a-cleaner-jeepney| archive-date=September 15, 2012| url-status=live}}</ref>

In response to the cons of the jeepneys, a modernization program has been launched. Newly manufactured jeepneys, such as e-jeepneys and modernized diesel jeepneys, are required to have at least a Euro 4-compliant engine or an electric engine and must contain safety features like speed limiters, accessibility features like ramps and seatbelts, closed-circuit television cameras, Wi-Fi and USB ports, GPS, and a dashboard camera.<ref name=":0" /> Motor manufacturers such as Toyota (and their truck subsidiary Hino), Mitsubishi (and their truck subsidiary Fuso), Isuzu, Hyundai, and even some Chinese truck brands such as Foton presented their own prototypes of the modernized jeepneys.<ref>{{cite news| url= https://www.npr.org/sections/parallels/2018/03/07/591140541/a-push-to-modernize-philippine-transport-threatens-the-beloved-jeepney |title=A Push To Modernize Philippine Transport Threatens The Beloved Jeepney |website=National Public Radio}}</ref>{{Failed verification|date=January 2024}}

== Flying LuftCar super-jeepney==
In 2024, LuftCar signed a [[Memorandum of understanding]] with eFrancisco Motor Corporation in the Philippines, to develop, integrate, deploy, brand and market a series of Pinoy [[Flying car|flying LuftCar super-jeepney]] ([[hydrogen]] Jeepney van [[eVTOL]] built around eFrancisco's vehicle [[chassis]] for [[Leapfrogging (strategy)|island hopping]]).<ref>{{cite news |last1= Blain|first1= Laz|title=LuftCar signs deal to develop detachable flying vans in the Philippines|url= https://newatlas.com/aircraft/luftcar-detachable-evtol/|accessdate=February 15, 2024 |publisher= [[The Atlas (newspaper)|The Atlas]]|date=February 9, 2024}}</ref>

== In popular culture ==
[[File:Filipinotown PWC Jeepney.jpg|thumb|PWC jeepney in [[Historic Filipinotown, Los Angeles]]]]

*When [[The Amazing Race 5|season 5]] of the American reality TV show ''[[The Amazing Race (American TV series)|The Amazing Race]]'' came to the Philippines in 2004, a segment of jeepney manufacturing was one of the tasks part of the eleventh leg. The episode, which was broadcast the same year, was shot at the Malagueña Motors factory.<ref>{{cite book|last=Castro|first=Adam-Troy|title=My Ox Is Broken!: Roadblocks, Detours, Fast Forwards and Other Great Moments from Tv's 'The Amazing Race'|publisher=[[BenBella Books]]|date=2006|page=258|isbn=9781941631454|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=tHovBgAAQBAJ&pg=PA258}}</ref>
*A [[BBC]] television program in 2011 called ''[[Toughest Place to be a...|Toughest Place to be a … Bus Driver]]'', a [[London bus]] driver goes to Manila and has to experience driving a jeepney around the busy streets of the city.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00z08wd|title=BBC Two Programmes – Toughest place to be a... Bus Driver|website=BBC UK}}</ref>
*In the first season of the Canadian reality TV show ''[[Don't Drive Here]]'' in 2014, host [[Andrew Younghusband]] traveled to Manila with the goal of safely driving a jeepney through Manila as his final day challenge for the trip. After driving nearly 2/3rds of his 15&nbsp;km route through Manila, he failed the challenge after accidentally switching the ignition off with his knee whilst in an intersection, and having the light turn red as he restarted the engine and proceeded forward (thus running the red light).<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JaoslRsF9AY "Don't Drive Here - Manila"]. YouTube.</ref>
*In 2015 during his papal visit in the Philippines, [[Pope Francis]] rode a customized jeepney as a [[popemobile]] built by ECTK Solutions.
*In honor of the 2019 Asia Challenge being hosted in Manila, Tamiya released a special edition [[Mini 4WD]] kit called the "Dyipne".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.topgear.com.ph/features/feature-articles/tamiya-jeepney-mini-4wd-a962-20190603|title=Tamiya has turned the iconic PH jeepney into a Mini 4WD|website=Top Gear Philippines}}</ref>
*In 2020, [[Hot Wheels]] released a new casting called the "Road Bandit", which is based on the jeepney.
*In April 2022, [[Toro y Moi|Toro Y Moi]] released his seventh studio album, [[Mahal (Toro y Moi album)|''MAHAL'']], with the cover featuring a custom-built (working) jeepney in front of the [[Golden Gate Bridge]] in San Francisco's Bay Area.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Coley |first=Jordan |title=Toro y Moi on Embracing His Filipino Culture With His New Album and Working With Eric Andre |url=https://www.gq.com/story/toro-y-moi-mahal-eric-andre-jeepney-interview |access-date=July 19, 2022 |website=GQ |date=July 8, 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref>
*One of the host city logos for the [[2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup]], in particular the Manila host city logo, features a jeepney.
*In the BBC series ''[[Full Circle with Michael Palin]]'', the host drives a jeepney while in the Philippines.
*The cable channel, [[Jeepney TV]], is named after this vehicle.

== See also ==
{{div col|colwidth=15em}}
* [[Angkot]]
* [[Boda boda]]
* [[Chiva bus]]
* [[Colectivo]]
* [[Combination bus|Truck bus]]
* [[Customised buses]]
* [[Dala dala]]
* [[Dollar van|Dollar van/Jitney]]
* [[GET COMET]]
* [[Jeepito]]
* [[Kalesa]]
* [[Marshrutka]]
* [[Matatu]]
* [[Midibus]]
* [[Motorized tricycle (Philippines)]]
* [[Multicab]]
* [[Pesero]]
* [[Public light bus]]
* [[Songthaew]]
* [[Tap tap]]
* [[Tro tro]]
* [[Weyala]]
{{div col end}}

== Notes ==
{{notelist}}

== References ==
{{Reflist|30em}}

== External links ==
* {{Commons category-inline}}

{{Transportation in the Philippines}}
{{Symbols of the Philippines}}
{{Public transport}}

[[Category:Share taxis]]
[[Category:Public transportation in the Philippines]]
[[Category:Road transportation in the Philippines]]
[[Category:Decorated vehicles]]
[[Category:Jeepneys| ]]
[[Category:Automotive industry in the Philippines]]
[[Category:1945 establishments in the Philippines]]