The Importance of Having a National Car Like Malaysia, Maintaining Competitiveness

For example, the Timor, which was sold in the 1990s. This model was a collaboration with Kia Motors.

However, the project was halted due to a dispute at the World Trade Organization (WTO). Then, the existing economic crisis caused financial problems.

On the other hand, the name Esemka also emerged under the leadership of President Joko Widodo. The product from Solo, Central Java, was touted to be the new national car.

They have even produced and marketed several models. Such as the Esemka Bima and the Garuda 1.

Photo : TrenOto

However, until now, the fate of the manufacturer located in Boyolali is unknown, whether production is still running or not.

In addition, Esemka was once sued by a resident of Solo. He felt aggrieved due to the difficulty in purchasing the prospective national car.

Next, Pindad was also mentioned as a successor for the national car. However, they are still focused on producing military vehicles.

Finally, at GIIAS 2025, a new national electric car candidate emerged with the brand Indigenous Indonesian Car (i2C).

Making its public debut, the i2C was still a 1:1 scale Clay Model. This unit is said to be a real picture of the direction for electric vehicles made by the nation's children.