Arcfox to Enter Indonesia, BAIC's EV-Focused Sub-brand

KatadataOTO – Many Chinese manufacturers have vehicle sub-brands intended to reach specific markets. One of them is Arcfox from BAIC.

The sub-brand focuses on offering EVs (Electric Vehicles) to consumers. Meanwhile, BAIC presents more conventional SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles) and hybrid cars.

Seeing the positive development trend of electric cars in the country, BAIC Indonesia sees an opportunity to present products from Arcfox to consumers.

“Arcfox EVs are under discussion. Whether we bring it in as Arcfox or rebadge it as BAIC depends on consumer response,” said Dhani Yahya, Chief Operating Officer of BAIC Indonesia in Tangerang, on Tuesday (29/04).

Photo : Arcfox EU

Although there isn't much information yet about the model that will be introduced, Dhani revealed that his party is interested in bringing in a 7-seater MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle).

This is because cars with a seven-passenger configuration are still in high demand among four-wheeled vehicle users in the country. Therefore, the opportunity is significant.

“So it will launch under the BAIC (brand) or as the original Arcfox. (The model is a) small MPV hatchback,” said Dhani.

However, according to Dhani, when the BAIC Indonesia team visited the factory in China, they were not yet able to see the model in person.

Because the MPV is said to still be in the development stage. Furthermore, it should be noted that the majority of their vehicle lineup, including from BAIC, is configured with left-hand drive, or LHD.

Therefore, extra time is needed for the development of the RHD (Right Hand Drive) version used in Indonesia.

Dhani does not deny that BAIC's aggressiveness in Indonesia is lower compared to other Chinese brands due to this reason.

Photo : Arcfox EU

However, they ensure they will slowly introduce new models for consumers, including the electrification lineup from both BAIC and Arcfox.

“We are developing this market slowly, continuing to move forward but not bombarding it with, for example, four to five models this year,” he emphasized.

For your information, Arcfox offers several models that focus more on crossover SUVs with an aggressive appearance. Some of them are the Kaola, Alpha T, Alpha S, Alpha T5, and Alpha S5.