Great Wall Motors (GWM) is taking a different path compared to other Chinese car brands present in Indonesia. Instead of selling electric cars, GWM has chosen to introduce hybrid cars to attract the public in the country.
In terms of production capabilities, GWM is well-prepared. They have production and assembly facilities in Wanaherang, Bogor, West Java. This plant is even ready to assemble two GWM cars, namely the Haval H6 HEV and the Haval Jolion HEV.
So, what makes GWM not yet tempted to sell pure electric cars in the Indonesian market? Constantinus Herlijoso, General Manager of Inchcape Indomobil Energi Baru, said on Wednesday (July 10, 2024) that from the outside, electric cars indeed seem attractive.
The government has even implemented various regulations and incentives to advance the electric car industry. However, there are several technical issues that make GWM hesitant to sell electric cars in Indonesia.
“Technically, there are many considerations because there are several requirements that must be met. At a glance, it looks okay, but it turns out it’s not as easy to implement,” he explained.
He cited the issue of complicated regulations for assembling or producing electric cars. When they entered Indonesia last year, the regulations for assembling and producing electric cars were not yet clear.
Currently, those regulations have been addressed. However, there are still some other regulations that seem difficult for GWM to comply with.
“For example, the issue of battery supply. In China, the supply of batteries for electric cars is abundant. It’s different in Indonesia, where there is only one truly operational supplier. The rest are just commitments to supply,” he explained.
Nevertheless, Constantinus Herlijoso said that GWM remains committed to bringing electric cars to Indonesia.
“We will solidify our commitment while waiting,” he explained.
It is known that last year at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show 2023 (GIIAS), GWM already brought an electric car named Ora. However, until now, GWM has not yet sold this uniquely designed electric car to consumers in the country.
