How to Maintain SUV Suspension for Daily Comfort

In recent years, the growth of electric cars in Indonesia has surged significantly. Based on sales data, the number of electric vehicles sold jumped from around 10,000 units in 2022 to over 43,000 units in 2024, with a cumulative total exceeding 68,000 units as of August 2024. This number is projected to keep rising, nearing 100,000 units by 2025.

This rapid increase is driven by several factors, from government support through EV subsidies and incentives, the entry of various new brands, to Indonesia’s potential as a global battery producer thanks to its rich nickel resources.

However, behind this fast growth, many new users still feel confused by the wide range of electric car terms commonly found in brochures or discussions, such as EV, BEV, or SoC. Through this article, we’ll help you understand the key terms in the world of electric vehicles, making it easier to follow the latest developments in EV technology, features, and trends in Indonesia.

Why It’s Important to Understand Electric Car Terms?

By understanding the common electric car terms found in dealer brochures or official websites, new users can easily interpret every EV specification. You won’t be confused when seeing range figures, battery capacity, or advanced safety features.

Moreover, this knowledge helps you choose the right electric vehicle for your needs whether for daily urban commutes or off-road adventures for modern urban explorers. By understanding terms like WLTP, kWh, or ADAS, you’ll also gain deeper insight into the technologies that enhance driving safety.

Essential Electric Car Terms You Need to Know

For new users, here’s a list of electric car terms that often appear in brochures:

1. EV (Electric Vehicle)

EV is a general term for electric vehicles, which includes several categories such as BEV, HEV, PHEV, and FCEV. So, when you hear the term “EV,” remember that not all are the same. Some are fully electric, while others still combine an electric motor with a gasoline engine.

2. BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle)

BEV refers to a fully electric vehicle powered solely by batteries, without any gasoline engine. Battery types vary, one of the most stable and durable types is the LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery, used in several Chery electric models.

Examples of BEVs include the Chery E5, an electric SUV offering up to 430 km of range (WLTP), and the Chery J6, available in both RWD and iWD configurations for various road conditions.

3. HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle)

HEV combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor. It’s a popular choice for those transitioning gradually from conventional to fully electric vehicles. HEVs are more fuel-efficient but cannot be recharged externally.

Chery’s HEV lineup, such as the Tiggo 8 CSH and the newly launched Tiggo 9 CSH introduced at GIIAS 2025, showcases modern hybrid technology that delivers both responsive performance and fuel efficiency, ideal for urban driving or long trips.

4. PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle)

PHEV is a more advanced hybrid since its battery can be charged externally. This means you can drive a certain distance using electric power before switching to gasoline when the battery is depleted.

5. FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle)

Unlike BEV or PHEV, FCEV uses hydrogen as fuel to generate electricity. This technology is more common abroad, as Indonesia’s hydrogen infrastructure remains limited.

6. SoC (State of Charge)

SoC indicates the remaining battery capacity, it is similar to the battery icon on your smartphone. Related terms include overcharging (excessive charging) and overheating (battery overheating). To prevent these issues, modern EVs feature Battery Management Systems (BMS) and Thermal Management Systems, which automatically protect the battery and extend its lifespan.

7. WLTP & NEDC Range

These are standardized methods for measuring EV range. WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) provides more realistic results closer to real-world driving, while NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) tends to produce higher range figures. So, if you see an EV brochure claiming 430 km WLTP, that number is typically a more accurate estimate of the vehicle’s true range.

8. kWh (Kilowatt-hour)

This unit measures battery capacity. The higher the kWh, the longer the driving range, though higher capacity also means longer charging times.

Over time, batteries naturally experience degradation meaning their performance slightly decreases with use. While still safe to drive, range may gradually decline. That’s why easy access to battery spare parts should be a key consideration.

9. MPGe (Miles Per Gallon Equivalent)

MPGe compares the efficiency of an electric car with that of a gasoline-powered vehicle. In other words, it helps potential buyers understand how economical an EV is if measured in traditional fuel consumption terms.

10. tCO₂e (Ton Carbon Emission Equivalent)

This term represents the amount of carbon emissions reduced through the use of electric vehicles. The lower the tCO₂e, the smaller the vehicle’s environmental impact.

For instance, using an electric car for daily city commuting can reduce several tons of carbon emissions per year compared to conventional gasoline cars meaning every kilometer driven with an EV contributes to reducing the nation’s carbon footprint.

11. Regenerative Braking

Regenerative braking is an advanced system that converts wasted kinetic energy during braking into electrical energy to recharge the battery. This process improves efficiency and helps extend the vehicle’s range.

For example, when the driver slows down on a descent or in traffic, the system automatically channels some of that energy back into the battery which allows the EV to recover energy without external charging.

12. Fast Charging & Slow Charging

There are two main types of charging: AC Charging (Slow Charging) and DC Charging (Fast Charging). AC charging uses alternating current, it’s typically installed for home charging. DC charging uses direct current with high voltage, usually available at public charging stations, and can recharge up to 80% of the battery in just a few dozen minutes.

13. V2L (Vehicle to Load)

V2L is a trending feature that allows electric cars to function as a “giant power bank” for external devices. For example, you can power an electric stove or charge a laptop while camping. This feature is available in Chery E5 and Chery J6 electric SUVs, making them even more versatile and functional.

14. ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)

ADAS refers to a suite of intelligent safety technologies that assist the driver while driving. Examples include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind Spot Monitoring. In Chery’s electric SUV lineup, the J6 comes with 14 ADAS features, while the E5 is equipped with 17 ADAS systems, making it one of the most advanced in its class.

15. TKDN (Local Content Requirement)

Lastly, TKDN (Tingkat Komponen Dalam Negeri) is a mandatory local content requirement for EVs to qualify for government subsidies. Currently, Chery’s electric SUVs have achieved a 40% TKDN rating, making them eligible for Indonesia’s EV incentive programs.

Tips for New Electric Car Users

Driving an EV feels different from driving a conventional car. Most systems from air conditioning to driving mode selection are operated through a touchscreen, requiring some adjustment to digital features.

When choosing your first EV, consider your driving needs. If you need a powerful electric SUV for off-road activities, the Chery J6 is a great option. Meanwhile, for efficient daily commuting, the Chery E5 is the perfect choice.

In short, understanding electric car terminology isn’t just about knowing technical terms, it’s the key to a smarter, safer, and more enjoyable driving experience. For those seeking an electric SUV that matches your lifestyle, Chery E5 and Chery J6 offer the perfect blend of modern design, futuristic features, and strong performance ready to accompany your daily drives and long-distance journeys. Book your test drive today at the nearest dealer!

A spacious cabin, capacity for up to seven passengers, and large cargo space are some of the key advantages of SUVs. With these benefits, many people wonder how to save fuel when driving an SUV, especially when it’s used for daily commuting. SUVs are known for their power and comfort, but their fuel consumption is generally higher than smaller cars due to their heavier weight and larger engines. Combined with city traffic and frequent congestion, fuel expenses can quickly rise if not managed properly.

Fortunately, there are several ways to save fuel in your SUV without sacrificing comfort or performance. From simple driving habits to regular maintenance and taking advantage of modern vehicle technology, you can make your SUV more efficient. Here are some practical tips to get started.

1. Maintain Proper Tire Pressure

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve fuel efficiency is by keeping your tire pressure at the manufacturer’s recommended level. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

You can check tire pressure at gas stations or use a portable pressure gauge. Keep it within the ideal range (typically around 32–35 psi, depending on the SUV model). Check your tires every two weeks or before long trips. Proper tire pressure not only improves fuel efficiency but also extends tire life and maintains vehicle stability.

2. Avoid Sudden Acceleration

Aggressive driving habits such as hard acceleration or sudden braking can significantly increase fuel consumption. The engine burns more fuel to produce quick bursts of power.

Try to drive smoothly and maintain consistent speed. This not only makes your drive more comfortable but also reduces stress on the transmission and brakes. Many modern SUVs come with an Eco Mode feature that adjusts engine output for smoother, more efficient throttle response, especially useful in heavy city traffic.

3. Watch the Vehicle Load

The heavier your car, the more fuel it consumes. Avoid carrying unnecessary items in the trunk or installing heavy accessories like roof boxes or spare tire mounts unless needed.

Although SUVs are designed to handle heavy loads, carrying excessive weight puts extra strain on the engine and suspension. This not only reduces fuel efficiency but also accelerates wear on key components. Always bring only what’s necessary for your trip.

4. Perform Regular Maintenance and Oil Changes

Never skip oil changes during maintenance. Dirty or overly thick oil increases engine friction, forcing it to work harder and burn more fuel. Most modern SUVs now use low friction synthetic oil, which improves both engine performance and efficiency.

Synthetic oils (for turbocharged engines) provide better protection under extreme temperatures while also extending engine life and ensuring stable performance under various driving conditions.

5. Use the Right Driving Mode for the Road

Many modern SUVs come with multiple driving modes such as Eco, Normal, and Sport. Each mode adjusts the engine’s performance and responsiveness.

• Use Eco Mode for daily city driving to maximize efficiency.
• Normal Mode is ideal for highway trips, offering a balance between power and fuel economy.
• Sport Mode should only be used when maximum performance is needed, such as overtaking or driving uphill.

Selecting the right mode helps optimize fuel use without compromising comfort

6. Take Advantage of Start-Stop Engine Technology

Start-Stop systems automatically turn off the engine when the vehicle stops at traffic lights or in jams, then restart it when you press the accelerator. This feature helps reduce fuel waste during idling.

Several modern Chery SUVs are already equipped with this technology, helping drivers save more fuel in congested city areas and making their drives more efficient.

7. Avoid Long Idling

Leaving your engine running while stationary still burns fuel unnecessarily. If you’re waiting for more than three minutes, such as in a parking lot or rest area, it’s better to turn off the engine. This simple habit can save a few percent of fuel over time, especially useful for SUV drivers who often take long trips.

8. Use the Recommended Fuel Type

Using the wrong fuel grade can reduce engine efficiency, cause knocking, and even damage the combustion system. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended octane rating (RON) for your SUV.

While high-octane fuel may cost slightly more, it ensures cleaner combustion, better performance, and long-term engine protection. Over time, this can reduce maintenance costs and maintain optimal performance.

By following these tips, you can identify and reduce the habits that waste fuel in your SUV. Remember, fuel efficiency isn’t just about the engine or technology, it also depends on your driving behavior.

For a more efficient and eco-friendly driving experience, consider modern SUVs from Chery, which feature Eco Mode, electric SUV, and hybrid systems, and intelligent technologies designed to support a smart and energy saving lifestyle.

In driving, visibility is one of the key factors for safety. One essential component that plays a major role in this aspect is the car mirror. Although it may seem simple, the function of car mirrors is crucial for helping drivers monitor their surroundings without having to turn their heads too often.

 

Unfortunately, many drivers still don’t fully understand the function of car mirrors or how to adjust them properly. Even a small mistake in mirror positioning can create blind spots, increasing the risk of accidents. Through this article, you will learn about the main functions of car mirrors and easy steps to adjust them for a wider view, making your driving experience safer and more comfortable.

1. Helping Monitor the Vehicle’s Sides

Car side mirrors, located on both the right and left sides, allow drivers to observe traffic conditions when overtaking or changing lanes. Before driving, always check that both side mirrors show a balanced reflection of your vehicle’s sides and the surrounding road to minimize blind spots.

In most modern cars, side mirrors can be adjusted electronically using a button near the driver’s seat. This makes mirror adjustments more precise and convenient.

2. Expanding the Field of View

Another key function of car mirrors is to extend the driver’s visibility range. However, standard mirrors can still leave certain areas unseen, known as blind spots. To cover these areas, many drivers add small convex blind spot mirrors to their side mirrors.

Chery SUVs are already equipped with Blind Spot Detection (BSD) as part of their ADAS feature suite. This system activates a signal when it detects another vehicle in the blind spot area. Its four main benefits include:

• Warning the driver when another vehicle is detected in the blind spot.
• Assisting during lane changes.
• Providing alerts while parking to prevent collisions.
• Reducing the risk of accidents caused by unseen vehicles.

3. Viewing the Rear Without Turning Your Head

The main role of the rearview mirror is to help drivers monitor vehicles behind them without turning around. This is especially useful when driving straight, changing lanes, or reversing.

Ideally, the rear window should be fully visible in the center of your mirror without needing to change your seating position. Always keep your mirror clean, as even small smudges or dust can affect clarity especially when driving at night.

4. Improving Parking Efficiency

When parking, mirrors help drivers gauge the distance between their car and surrounding objects such as other vehicles, road barriers, or sidewalks. By using both the side and rearview mirrors, drivers can perform parallel parking more efficiently and safely.

Many modern cars now feature reverse cameras or 360° view cameras integrated into the mirror system or head unit. Chery’s latest SUV models even offer a 540° view camera, as seen on the Chery E5. This feature provides real-time visual coverage of the car’s surroundings, making maneuvering much easier.

In addition, the Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) system enhances safety when reversing from parking spots with limited visibility. Rear sensors detect oncoming vehicles from either side and issue visual or audio warnings when a collision risk is detected. This feature has proven effective in preventing minor parking accidents, especially in crowded locations such as malls or office buildings.

5. Enhancing Driving Comfort

Beyond safety, the function of car mirrors also contributes to overall driving comfort. Properly adjusted mirrors reduce the need for frequent head turns, minimizing neck strain and allowing better focus on the road.

Some premium SUVs are equipped with electrochromic mirrors and heated mirrors, which prevent fogging and maintain clear visibility in cold or rainy weather. This shows that mirrors are not just accessories but essential components that significantly improve both comfort and safety during every journey.

Types of Modern Car Mirrors

1. Auxiliary Mirrors

Attached to the exterior mirror, these help widen the field of view by showing objects not captured by the main mirror. Ideal for minimizing blind spots, especially in dense traffic conditions.

2. Electric Mirrors

Allow automatic mirror adjustments via buttons inside the car. Some models also include heating functions to remove fog, maintaining visibility in colder climates.

3. Auto-Dimming Mirrors

Modern mirrors with light sensors that detect excessive brightness from headlights behind. The mirror automatically dims to prevent glare, ensuring clear and comfortable vision during night drives.

Tips for Proper Mirror Adjustment Before Driving

To maximize the function of car mirrors, follow these simple steps:

• Adjust your seating position first before setting the mirrors.
• Make sure the rear view mirror shows the full rear window.
• Set side mirrors so that a small part of the car body is visible, while maintaining a wide view of the road beside it.
• Check from several head positions to ensure no major blind spots remain.
• Use the automatic folding mirror feature when parking in tight spaces.
• Avoid touching the mirror glass directly and clean it regularly to prevent blurriness.

Common Mistakes in Mirror Adjustment

Many drivers still make small but impactful mistakes, such as:

• Angling mirrors too far toward the car body, limiting the side view.
• Misaligning the rearview mirror so it doesn’t reflect the rear window properly.
• Forgetting to readjust mirrors after changing the seat position.
• Ignoring or failing to activate available blind spot detection features.

By understanding the function of car mirrors and how to adjust them correctly, you can drive more safely, comfortably, and efficiently. Modern mirror systems continue to evolve, offering advanced visibility and smarter safety support.

Features like Blind Spot Detection, 540° view cameras, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert found in Chery SUVs demonstrate how cutting edge technology can reduce accident risks and make driving more intuitive.

If you want to experience how these technologies work in real world conditions, try a Chery SUV test drive and feel the comfort, safety, and advanced ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) support that enhances your everyday driving experience.