Power Wheels Magazine A Notch Above
When BAIC Philippines set out to find its next brand ambassador, the goal was never just to feature a familiar face behind the wheel. For Kobe Paras, what truly sealed the partnership was something more personal: the opportunity to stand alongside his father, Benjie Paras, and brother, Andre Paras, as part of the BAIC family.
“The fact that our BAIC family wanted to include not just me, but my brother and dad, made it even more special. Working with my family is always a dream come true,” Kobe shared.
For someone with an active lifestyle, owning a BAIC felt like a natural choice. The brand’s expanding lineup, which ranges from efficient electric and hybrid vehicles designed for city life to rugged, adventure-ready models built for off-road exploration, reflects the same restless, always-moving spirit Kobe embodies in everything he does.
A Self-Described Skeptic Turned Convert
Kobe is candid about his initial reservations. Like many Filipinos still weighing the switch to hybrid vehicles, he admits he once approached the category with hesitation, mainly due to lack of exposure.
“I used to be very hesitant about hybrid and electric vehicles because I wasn’t fully educated on them. But now that I am a proud hybrid owner, I can honestly say it was the best decision for me and my family. You save a lot on gas, and you also get to drive a beautiful car.”
“My first time driving a hybrid, I was genuinely impressed. It made me realize I had been missing out all this time.”
Sport Mode, Style, and Rewriting Electric and Hybrid Stereotypes
When asked about the features that left the biggest impression, Kobe highlights one that challenges common misconceptions about hybrid and electric vehicles—an impression echoed across BAIC’s range, from city-centric hybrids to rugged models built for off-road adventures.
“I love the sport mode. People often belittle hybrids and electric cars, but the sport mode in my BAIC makes me feel like I’m driving a sports car—not because it’s the fastest, but because the interior is so stylish.”
Beyond performance, Kobe values his vehicle most for the everyday moments that make city life in Manila challenging yet manageable.
“Living in Manila means accepting traffic as part of life. But when I’m out running errands, I find peace and comfort knowing I’ll have a pleasant drive—and I save money on gas thanks to my hybrid.”
He shares that this daily reliability has exceeded his expectations.
“It definitely surpassed what I anticipated. My brother, Andre, often says, ‘Your expectations, your disappointment.’ I’ve never been disappointed with my BAIC.”
A trip to a major auto show in China with his brother Andre further reinforced Kobe’s confidence in the brand’s global direction.
“When Andre and I visited the auto show in China for electric vehicles, I was blown away by BAIC’s futuristic and advanced models. I can’t wait for these to arrive in the Philippines someday.”
What “Drive Big” Means to Him
For Kobe, BAIC’s “Drive Big” platform extends beyond just the vehicles.
“To DRIVE BIG means to THINK BIG. It’s about staying curious and always seeking growth. To drive big is to live big, living life to the fullest, no matter what. And to drive big is to love big. Despite life’s challenges, we must love everything around us.”
When asked what he would tell someone deciding between BAIC and other brands, Kobe keeps it simple:
“People often choose comfort over style, or style over comfort. But with BAIC, you get both—comfort and style, together.”
For Kobe, BAIC’s appeal was never limited to just one car. It’s a lineup tailored for the many directions his life takes, from quiet city errands to spontaneous adventures—each promising comfort, style, and confidence on the road.
As BAIC continues to grow its presence in the Philippines, Kobe joins his father and brother in showing Filipino drivers that the brand is built for those who aspire to live big—however grand their dreams may be.