In Indonesia, transport is the single largest final energy-consuming sector, using imported oil and accounting for roughly a quarter of energy emissions. Legacy carmakers command a predominant, if not near-absolute, status in Indonesia’s market, but their electric plans remain lackluster. Bold fuel economy standards and other active government policies are required to restrain demand for internal combustion engine fuel and make legacy automakers work toward more efficient EVs.
It is important to clarify the differences among the various electrified vehicle types, and to understand the real-world fuel savings and emission reductions as they can differ from claimed figures. Analysts’ mild outlook on Indonesia’s EV growth should serve as a reminder that the current trajectory is insufficient to meet the ambitious targets. To seriously embark on its EV ambition, Indonesia needs to address the giants in the room.
