Mazda Sees Big Opportunity in PHEV Demand in Indonesia

KatadataOTO – Mazda currently only has one electric car model in the Indonesian market, the MX-30. However, this model targets a limited consumer base and tends to be more popular among its enthusiasts.

For this reason, Mazda is preparing a PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) product, targeting consumers in the premium segment who use their vehicles for mobility in urban areas.

Compared to pure electric cars, Mazda sees a great opportunity for PHEVs to be in demand by local consumers. This is because this technology has its own advantages compared to BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles) and HEVs (Hybrid Electric Vehicles).

“Because PHEV cars can be charged, while regular hybrids cannot,” said Ricky Thio, Chief Operating Officer of PT EMI (Eurokars Motor Indonesia) in South Jakarta some time ago.

Photo : Mazda

PHEV-type cars themselves combine two power sources, namely a conventional engine and a battery. Therefore, they can not only be filled with gasoline but can also be charged like a BEV.

Mazda itself is interested in launching hybrid vehicles, although still targeting the premium segment. This technology is considered a suitable bridge before transitioning to pure electric cars while waiting for the charging infrastructure to become more widespread.

“So if you ask me about the prospects, I see it leaning more towards hybrids, HEVs, or PHEVs. Basically, the category is the same,” he said.

Mazda Not Yet Pursuing Incentives

Although the government has introduced a three percent incentive for hybrid car manufacturers that meet the requirements, Mazda has stated that they will not be registering their models for it yet.

Considering that meeting the TKDN (Local Component Level) is touted as one of the main requirements for models to receive tax relaxation from the government. Meanwhile, Mazda has not yet revealed plans to locally assemble their hybrid vehicles. 

Photo : KatadataOTO

Thus, the launch of their hybrid car is part of Mazda's roadmap in Indonesia, not a response to the government's discourse on hybrid car incentives.

“This car is indeed available in Japan and we have planned it for months in advance. We are not impulsive; we prioritize its Jinba Ittai,” said Ricky.

To date, he is still reluctant to disclose plans regarding the local assembly of hybrid cars. However, he confirmed that there will be a model with CKD (Completely Knocked Down) status in the near future.