Chinese EV Influx Could Boost Sales, But There's a Catch

Riyanto further explained that completeness refers to things like SPKLU (Public Electric Vehicle Charging Stations). This is indeed still one of the considerations for consumers before switching to an electric car.

In the future, many new products will still be introduced in the country, filling both the entry-level and premium classes.

The majority choose to present products in potential segments such as MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) and SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle).

For example, at the beginning of 2025, Xpeng will bring in the MPV X9 and the SUV coupe G6. Although the prices have not been revealed, the manufacturer confirms that both models will be locally assembled at the facility owned by PT HIM (Handal Indonesia Motor).

Photo : Special

It should be noted that local assembly is one of the requirements for vehicles to receive incentives from the government. This makes the offered price tag more competitive.

Then, at the IIMS 2025 event, BYD brought the Sealion 7 SUV. Its price is not much different from its sedan version, the Seal, in the range of Rp 600 million and above.

These brands are also starting to prepare a supporting ecosystem. BYD is preparing charging stations at dealerships to make it easier for consumers to charge their cars.

On the other hand, economic analysts believe that electric cars cannot yet reach first-time buyers. This presents a challenge in itself.

Photo : KatadataOTO

“When we talk about EV (Electric Vehicle) cars, they are probably not for first-time buyers. So, they already have a car, two or three in their garage,” said Josua Pardede, Chief Economist of Permata Bank, when met in Jakarta some time ago.

However, as time goes on, especially with local assembly, electric cars have the potential to attract more consumers and are expected to contribute to national sales.