The electric car trend in Indonesia, specifically battery-based vehicles (Battery Electric Vehicle/BEV), has grown significantly over the past 5 years. Even though sales dropped by 1,145 units in April, it hasn’t changed the fact that electric vehicles are becoming an important part of the nation’s automotive future. Government incentives, rising fuel prices, and public awareness of environmentally friendly transportation are among the strongest drivers of this lifestyle shift.
Switching to electric cars is not only about following a global trend but also offers a concrete solution to air pollution, energy efficiency, and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. They offer benefits such as lower operating costs, smoother driving, and cutting-edge technology. This article covers what electric cars are, why they’re gaining popularity in Indonesia, their long-term benefits for both drivers and the environment, and the challenges to their adoption.
An electric car is powered entirely by an electric motor using rechargeable batteries. Unlike fossil fuel-powered cars, electric cars produce no emissions, significantly reducing pollution and helping mitigate climate change.
The main difference lies in refueling. While conventional cars can refuel quickly at gas stations, electric cars require more time to recharge—though fast charging technology is rapidly improving. The government and automotive industry are expanding charging infrastructure, such as public charging stations (SPKLU), to make road trips more convenient.
In Indonesia, the main types of electric cars are: Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV), Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV), and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV).
Electric cars convert stored battery energy into power to turn the wheels. The battery sends electricity to an inverter, which changes direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) to run the motor. The motor’s rotation drives the wheels via the transmission. Key components include:
With no internal combustion engine, electric cars don’t require exhaust systems, radiators, or fuel systems—making them quieter, simpler, and cheaper to maintain.
Beyond being environmentally friendly, electric cars offer:
Chery stands out in this category, thanks to new electric SUV models like the OMODA E5 (including the E5 Pure) and J6, which contributed to strong sales growth in 2024.
A stylish urban electric SUV with a 61.06 kWh LFP battery, up to 505 km range (NEDC), and 30-minute fast charging. Features include IoV integration, ADAS, a 540° camera, luxury interior with a 24.6-inch curved screen, wireless charging, ambient lighting, and sunroof. Price starts at IDR 425 million, including a lifetime battery warranty for the first 4,000 buyers.
Adventure-ready with AWD, 426 km range, and 0–100 km/h in 6.5 seconds. Offers premium features like a 540° camera, massage seats, 12 Infinity speakers, and multiple drive modes. The top Phantom Edition is priced at IDR 615 million.
A 7-seater hybrid combining a 1.5L turbo engine with an electric motor, offering 204 PS, 310 Nm torque, 90 km EV range, and over 1,300 km hybrid range. Premium features include a 540° camera, 50W wireless charging, 12-speaker setup, 10 airbags, and 14 ADAS features. Special launch price for first 1,000 buyers: IDR 499 million.
Key challenges include limited charging infrastructure, high upfront costs, and fewer model options. Still, the long-term benefits—energy efficiency, reduced carbon emissions, and advanced technology—make them a forward-thinking choice.
Chery’s electric lineup, from the futuristic OMODA E5 to the rugged J6 and efficient Tiggo 8 CSH hybrid, proves that EVs can be stylish, high-tech, and affordable. Visit your nearest Chery dealer or the official Chery Indonesia website for details and exclusive offers.
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