Archive: 7 August 2026
Showing 651-700 of 1,438 articles
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:23 WIB
Unveiling the Wave of Illegal Migrants from Morocco and Africa to Spain
A massive surge of over 37,000 migrants crossing into Spain's enclave of Ceuta from Morocco has been linked to a misinterpretation of a Spanish Supreme Court ruling and exploitation by smuggling networks. The incident, which resulted in dozens of deaths, is fuelled by dire economic conditions and high youth unemployment in Morocco, but also carries political undertones. Speculation is mounting that the crisis may be a form of pressure on Spain's government due to its supportive stance on Palestine.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:21 WIB
IHSG Enjoys a Happy Weekend, Surges 1% to Breach 6,400 Psychological Level
The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed the week on a strong note, rising 1.04% to finish at 6,409.65, successfully breaking through the 6,400 psychological barrier. The rally was broad-based, led by the technology, raw materials, and property sectors, while market participants balanced global optimism with caution ahead of key US employment data. Domestically, investors are also monitoring Indonesia's foreign exchange reserves and the planned initial public offerings of several state-owned enterprises.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:21 WIB
Health Ministry Urges Patriot Expedition Team to Map Health Issues in Transmigration Areas
The Ministry of Health has called on the 2026 Patriot Expedition Team (TEP) to assess public health conditions and human resource quality in Indonesia's transmigration zones. The ministry highlighted significant regional disparities in life expectancy, with Jakarta averaging 76 years compared to 67-68 years in the Papua Highlands. Participants are expected to examine local health services and promote preventive care to address the rising burden of non-communicable diseases.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:20 WIB
Nurul Izzah takes leave from PKR deputy president post amid internal tensions
Nurul Izzah Anwar, daughter of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, has taken a leave of absence from her role as PKR deputy president, citing a desire to pursue further studies. Sources indicate her decision was influenced by disagreements with the party's direction, internal pressure, and her discomfort with the government's handling of allegations against former anti-corruption chief Azam Baki. Analysts suggest this episode has damaged her political standing and that her return to the post is unlikely in the near term.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:20 WIB
KAI Daop 4 Semarang Urges Passengers to Depart Early to Avoid Tegal Carnival Traffic Congestion
PT KAI Daop 4 Semarang has advised train passengers to allow extra travel time to Tegal Station due to expected heavy traffic from the Semarak Karnaval event. The carnival, held in the city centre to celebrate Indonesia's 79th Independence Day, is likely to cause congestion and potential road closures. Passengers are reminded that tickets are void if they miss their scheduled departure.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:20 WIB
Google Warns of Faster Disaster Predictions After 700,000 Deaths
Google DeepMind has launched WeatherNext, an AI model capable of predicting deadly tropical cyclones a full day earlier than current systems. The technology, which has already been used to forecast Hurricane Melissa, aims to mitigate the impact of storms that have caused 700,000 deaths and US$1.4 trillion in economic losses over the past 50 years. Google has open-sourced the model to help global agencies strengthen early warning systems.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:18 WIB
Malang Police Arrest Gang for Stealing 17 Tower Batteries, Causing Rp 432 Million in Losses
Police in Malang, East Java, have arrested three men for stealing lithium batteries from 17 telecommunication towers across 10 sub-districts, resulting in estimated losses of Rp 432 million. The suspects, who worked as casual labourers, targeted unguarded towers, damaging security systems before selling the batteries for a fraction of their value. A fourth suspect remains at large as authorities continue to investigate the network of buyers.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:18 WIB
Bappenas: Strengthening Human Resources is the Foundation for Transforming Transmigration Areas
Minister of National Development Planning Rachmat Pambudy has emphasised that human resource development is key to transforming transmigration areas and accelerating equitable development in Indonesia. The government is shifting the transmigration paradigm from population relocation to a regional development instrument aimed at creating new economic growth centres. The initiative aligns with the 2025–2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan and includes a focus on agricultural innovation and talent development.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:18 WIB
Ministry of Human Rights Demands Discrimination-Free BPJS Patient Services
Indonesia's Ministry of Human Rights has called for an end to discrimination against patients using the national health insurance scheme, BPJS Kesehatan, emphasising that all citizens are entitled to equal treatment. The ministry issued a circular outlining four key principles for healthcare providers, including non-discriminatory access and respect for patient dignity. The directive follows public complaints about poor treatment and long queues for BPJS patients, including a high-profile case in Samarinda.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:18 WIB
Kopdes Merah Putih: Muzani Says Prabowo Deeply Studied Hatta's Thoughts
MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani has stated that President Prabowo Subianto's 'Kopdes Merah Putih' village cooperative programme is rooted in the economic philosophy of Mohammad Hatta. Muzani noted that Prabowo extensively studied the works of Indonesia's first vice president, who is revered as the Father of Cooperatives. The programme is said to reflect Hatta's deep concern for economic issues, which he vigorously debated during the BPUPKI sessions.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:18 WIB
Fiqh at the Crossroads of Polycrisis: Strengthening Maqashid for the 21st Century
The world's interconnected crises, from war and climate change to artificial intelligence, demand a renewed reading of Islamic jurisprudence. This article argues for a careful distinction between syariah and fiqh, emphasising that fiqh, as a product of human understanding, must evolve. It highlights the enduring relevance of maqashid al-syari'ah in providing moral and social direction for modern challenges.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:18 WIB
Riau Government Says Forest Fires Under Control, Task Force Collaboration Key
The Riau provincial government has stated that forest and land fires in the region remain under control, crediting effective collaboration among the task force. Cloud seeding operations have deployed 11 tonnes of salt, resulting in rainfall across several districts. Authorities have also mobilised water-bombing helicopters to support ground teams in tackling the blazes.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:17 WIB
Rosan Roeslani Attends Launch of Bahlil Lahadalia's 10 Books in Jakarta
Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani attended the launch of 10 books by his predecessor Bahlil Lahadalia in Jakarta, praising the works as a source of inspiration for young people. Rosan described Bahlil as a forward-thinking figure and expressed gratitude for the strong foundation laid at the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming. The event, titled '10 Real Works for the Nation: Half a Century of Bahlil Lahadalia', was held at the Djakarta Theatre.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:17 WIB
Government Urged to Disburse Additional Regional Transfers as 490 Local Governments Struggle to Pay Salaries
A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has urged the central government to immediately approve additional regional transfer funds (TKD) for 490 local administrations facing budget deficits. The deficit threatens the timely payment of salaries for civil servants, teachers, and healthcare workers, which could disrupt public services. The call comes amid broader concerns over regional fiscal dependency and the management of local budgets.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:17 WIB
Bandung Regency Accelerates Cikeruh River Normalisation Ahead of Rainy Season
The Bandung Regency government is fast-tracking the normalisation of the Cikeruh River in Bojongsoang as part of a broader flood mitigation strategy. The Pentahelix programme, involving central and local governments, the military, businesses, and the community, targets sediment dredging across 12 sub-districts. Bupati Dadang Supriatna has called for increased central government support and private sector participation to address the region's persistent flooding issues.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:17 WIB
Garut Police Arrest Suspect in Fatal Assault
Police in Garut, West Java, have arrested a 55-year-old man for a brutal assault that resulted in the death of a 36-year-old victim. The attack, which involved repeated machete blows to the head, face, chest, and neck, occurred after a verbal altercation escalated. The suspect faces up to 10 years in prison under Indonesia's new Criminal Code for assault causing death.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:16 WIB
Lampung-1 AI Satellite: Functions, Benefits, and Data Security Assurances
The Lampung-1 satellite, a collaboration between the Lampung provincial government and China's STAR.VISION Aerospace, has officially entered orbit, marking a new chapter in data-driven regional development. The AI-powered hyperspectral imaging satellite aims to provide precise data for policymaking, natural resource management, and boosting agricultural and marine productivity. The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has assured that data management for Indonesia remains under its authority, while also preparing the launch of its domestically produced Neo-1 satellite.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:16 WIB
BI Predicts Jakarta's Economy Will Remain Strong Amid Global Uncertainty
Bank Indonesia's Jakarta office forecasts solid economic growth for the capital in 2026, driven by strong domestic demand and ongoing strategic projects. Key sectors such as trade, construction, and accommodation are showing robust annual growth, with the overall economy outperforming the national average. The central bank also highlights controlled inflation and accelerating digital transformation as key supporting factors.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:15 WIB
Vice President Inspects School Renovation, Post-Disaster Learning Resumption in Aceh
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming has inspected the renovation progress of SD Negeri 7 Jangka in Bireuen, Aceh, which was damaged by flash floods in November 2025. The visit aimed to ensure the swift restoration of adequate learning facilities for students. The school's renovation has reached 86 per cent completion and is targeted to be fully finished by October.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:15 WIB
Majapahit Fruit Shows Potential as Breast Cancer Anticancer Agent, Study Finds
A recent study has identified that the Majapahit fruit (Crescentia cujete) contains compounds with potential anticancer properties, particularly against breast cancer. Molecular docking analysis showed that compounds kaempferol-3-O-rhamnoside and hesperidin can interact stably with BRCA1 and BRCA2 proteins. Researchers caution that the findings are preliminary and require further testing on cell cultures and mammals.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:14 WIB
HIV Cases in North Penajam Paser Rise, Driven by Increased Testing and Key Populations
The North Penajam Paser (PPU) Health Office has recorded 17 new HIV cases up to June 2026, bringing the total number of people living with HIV in the regency to 110. Officials attribute the rise to expanded testing and treatment services, particularly in the Sepaku district, rather than the development of Indonesia's new capital city, IKN. The data also highlights a significant increase in cases among men who have sex with men (MSM), with seven new cases already recorded in the first half of 2026.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:13 WIB
Ministry of Public Works to Immediately Operate Prosiwangi Toll Road Sections 1 and 2
The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works is preparing to operate the first two sections of the Probolinggo-Situbondo-Banyuwangi (Prosiwangi) Toll Road in East Java, spanning 24 kilometres. Construction on these sections has been fully completed and they have received their operational feasibility certificates. Minister Dody Hanggodo emphasised that the toll road development is a strategic instrument for equitable regional development and strengthening the local economy.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:11 WIB
Father Who Tortured Son in West Bandung Attempted to Flee During Arrest
A 28-year-old man in West Bandung, identified as Dayat alias Cepi, has been arrested for the brutal abuse of his five-year-old son, which was recorded and went viral on social media. The suspect attempted to escape into a rice field when police arrived at his parents' home, where his family had initially tried to hide him. Authorities have also detained a second individual who filmed the abuse and are continuing to investigate the motive behind the violent act.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:11 WIB
IAEI-KNEKS: Indonesia Must Strengthen MEKSI and Sharia GDP to Lead Global Islamic Economy
The Indonesian Association of Islamic Economists (IAEI) and the National Committee for Sharia Economy and Finance (KNEKS) are urging the government to accelerate the legal endorsement of the Sharia Economy Masterplan (MEKSI) and the development of Sharia Gross Domestic Product (PDB Syariah). They argue these steps are crucial for strengthening governance and measuring the sector's contribution to the national economy. The call was made during a webinar discussing progress and challenges in achieving Indonesia's goal of becoming a global Islamic economy hub by 2029.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:10 WIB
Presidential Palace Reveals Shortlist for BI Governor: Is Destry Among Them?
The Presidential Palace has disclosed that President Prabowo Subianto is considering several candidates for the next Governor of Bank Indonesia, with Acting Governor Destry Damayanti and former OJK Chairman Muliaman Hadad emerging as prominent names. The selection process is ongoing, with the President still gathering input before formally nominating a successor to Perry Warjiyo, who resigned effective 25 July 2026. No official letter has yet been sent to the House of Representatives regarding the definitive candidate.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:10 WIB
From Bullying Victim to Singing for the Minister: The Story of Karmila, a Primary School Student with Disabilities
Karmila, a 15-year-old student with a congenital foot condition, overcame severe bullying to perform for Indonesia's Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf in Makassar. Her journey from trauma to confidence was supported by Sekolah Rakyat, a government-run integrated school for children from extremely poor families. The programme highlights the government's efforts to provide inclusive education and social support for vulnerable children.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:09 WIB
Indonesian Woman Killed in Sydney Car Crash Laid to Rest
Nurhayati Pamungkas, a 44-year-old Indonesian national, has been buried in Sydney after succumbing to severe head injuries sustained when she was struck by a car. Her husband, Agung, has expressed a desire to understand why the 82-year-old driver hit her as she was walking to collect their children from school. The Indonesian Consulate General in Sydney has confirmed her death and is providing consular assistance to the family, while community fundraisers have collected over A$65,000 to support them.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:09 WIB
Police Uncover Etomidate Narcotics Ring in North Jakarta
Police in North Jakarta have arrested a suspect identified as B for allegedly distributing the anaesthetic etomidate and methamphetamine. The arrest followed an investigation in the Penjaringan area, where officers seized dozens of cartridges containing the liquid narcotic. The suspect reportedly sourced the drugs from Kampung Ambon, West Jakarta, and faces up to 20 years in prison.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:09 WIB
Public Works Ministry confirms four People's Schools in South Sulawesi operational
The Ministry of Public Works has confirmed that four Integrated People's Schools (SRT) in South Sulawesi have commenced operations as part of a government initiative to broaden educational access for underprivileged children. The schools began their student orientation period on 31 July 2026, marking the start of the 2026/2027 academic year. The programme, directed by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to break the cycle of poverty and prepare the next generation for the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:07 WIB
Mutated Four Times in Two Months, Gunungsari Market Chief Fights Back
Ahmad Taufiqqurrahman, the head of Gunungsari Market, is resisting his fourth job transfer in two months, calling the move arbitrary and without consideration of his performance. He claims to have significantly increased market retribution revenue and improved cleanliness during his brief tenure. The Trade Office chief has denied requesting the transfer, stating the decision came from the regional civil service agency and praising Taufiqqurrahman's performance.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:07 WIB
Police Yet to Find Victim Kusnaefi's Severed Leg in Depok Mutilation Case
Indonesian police are still searching for the severed leg of mutilation victim Kusnaefi, which was disposed of in a Depok waterway. The search, involving sniffer dogs and public works personnel, has been hampered by heavy rain, strong currents, and the time elapsed since the body part was discarded. The suspect, Saiful, is in custody and is believed to have murdered the victim following an online acquaintance.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:06 WIB
Cilacap Officials Forced to Use Personal Funds for Leadership Forum's Holiday Bonus
A corruption trial in Semarang has revealed that senior officials in Cilacap Regency were compelled to use personal money to pay for holiday bonuses for the local leadership forum (Forkopimda). Witnesses testified that the non-active Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman requested specific sums, with some officials resorting to borrowing money or using their children's school fees to meet the demands. The illicit contributions, which lacked any official budget allocation, were allegedly coerced under the threat of being perceived as disloyal.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:06 WIB
Muzani Responds to Post-17 August Cabinet Reshuffle Rumours
Gerindra Party Secretary-General Ahmad Muzani has stated that any decision regarding a cabinet reshuffle is the exclusive prerogative of President Prabowo Subianto. His comments follow speculation about a post-Independence Day reshuffle, which the Cabinet Secretary suggested would prioritise filling vacant deputy minister positions. The government has not yet confirmed a date for the changes.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:06 WIB
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi Pledges to Replace Confiscated Noisy Exhausts to Ensure Public Feels Budget Benefits
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has announced that the provincial government will compensate motorists whose non-standard, noisy exhausts are confiscated by police during 'Tiis Ceuli' operations. The initiative aims to support law enforcement while ensuring that state budget allocations directly benefit the public. Mulyadi emphasised that the programme is designed to prevent the regional budget from becoming an 'ivory tower' disconnected from the people's needs.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:05 WIB
PLN declares electricity supply in South and Central Kalimantan still on alert status
State electricity firm PLN has confirmed that the power system across South and Central Kalimantan remains on alert status following a boiler leak at a key power plant. The disruption occurred shortly after two other plants resumed operations ahead of schedule to bolster the grid. PLN is coordinating with private partners to expedite repairs and has implemented limited, temporary power cuts to maintain overall system reliability.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:05 WIB
Workers' Rights at PT Kalrez Fulfilled After Energy Ministry Intervention
The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has successfully intervened to secure the payment of seven months' overdue wages for 94 employees and outsourced workers at PT Kalrez Petroleum. The resolution follows a protracted struggle that had caused significant socio-economic hardship for the workers' families. The ministry emphasised that the management of natural resources must deliver tangible benefits to the welfare of local communities.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:05 WIB
Fire at Mount Gede's Suryakencana Meadow Closes Hiking Trails
A fire has broken out at the Suryakencana Meadow within Mount Gede Pangrango National Park, prompting authorities to temporarily close all hiking activities. The cause of the blaze, which started on Thursday evening, remains under investigation. The closure will last for five days to ensure visitor safety and facilitate firefighting efforts.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:04 WIB
SPPG Contractor Forum Urges BGN to Settle Outstanding Project Payments
A forum representing contractors for the National Nutrition Agency's (BGN) SPPG programme has formally requested the immediate settlement of overdue payments for completed construction projects. The group, representing 74 companies across 315 sites nationwide, submitted documentation to BGN's integrated complaints service on Friday. The contractors report facing severe financial strain due to delayed payments, including unpaid bank loans and material costs, despite having completed their contractual obligations.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:04 WIB
Australia Mandates Poultry Quarantine as Bird Flu Cases Rise
The Australian state of Victoria has become the first in the country to mandate the housing of poultry, requiring farmers with more than 50 birds to keep them in enclosures for an initial 14 days. The proactive measure follows an increase in H5N1 avian influenza detections in wild birds, with 175 confirmed or suspected cases now recorded. Authorities maintain that no cases have been found in farmed poultry and the risk to humans remains very low.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:04 WIB
Gunungkidul Residents Sell Livestock to Buy Water Amid Drought, Regent Ensures Clean Water Distribution
Residents in Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, have resorted to selling their livestock to purchase clean water as a severe drought hits the region. Regent Endah Subekti Kuntariningsih has responded by instructing sub-districts to identify vulnerable areas and commence water distribution, with budgets allocated through local and regional disaster agencies. The local government aims to intensify drought relief efforts starting this week to ensure state intervention precedes other parties.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:02 WIB
Surabaya Proves NIK-Based One Data System Boosts Regional Economic Growth
The Surabaya city government's implementation of a One Data system based on the Population Identification Number (NIK) has shown significant impact, contributing to economic growth and a reduction in poverty. The city recorded an economic growth rate of 5.87% in 2025, while the poverty rate fell to 3.56%, far below the national average. This achievement earned Surabaya two national awards at the 2026 National Coordination Meeting for Population and Civil Registration.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:02 WIB
Health Ministry asks TEP to map health issues in transmigration areas
The Indonesian Health Ministry has requested that Community Empowerment Worker (TEP) participants map health conditions in transmigration areas, including access to facilities and the prevalence of non-communicable diseases. The mapping is intended to support government priority programs such as free health check-ups and tuberculosis control, particularly in underserved regions like Papua.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:02 WIB
Farizon Hands Over SV Units to Five Strategic Partners at GIIAS 2026
Farizon, through its Indonesian distributor Arista Group, handed over its SV electric commercial vehicles to five strategic partners at the GIIAS 2026 automotive exhibition. The ceremony underscores the company's commitment to accelerating the adoption of electric commercial vehicles in Indonesia. The partners span sectors including public transport, logistics, industry, and education.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:01 WIB
Kalimantan Offers 15 Strategic Projects Worth Rp62.13 Trillion to 20 Investors
Bank Indonesia facilitated an investment forum in Banjarmasin, connecting 15 strategic projects across Kalimantan with 20 domestic and international investors. The projects, valued at a combined Rp62.13 trillion, span sectors including coal downstreaming, hydropower, and port development. The forum resulted in 12 Letters of Intent, marking initial steps towards realising investments aimed at transforming Kalimantan's economy.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:00 WIB
Bank Kasikorn (BMAS) Plans Jumbo Rights Issue to Boost Lending
PT Bank Kasikorn Indonesia Tbk. (BMAS) is planning a significant rights issue of up to 2.87 billion new shares, representing 15.88% of its paid-up capital. The proceeds are earmarked for working capital to support increased credit distribution. The plan requires shareholder approval at an extraordinary general meeting scheduled for August 2026.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:00 WIB
UI Expert: Indonesia-Thailand Economic Cooperation Supports Regional Stability
A University of Indonesia expert has stated that strengthening economic cooperation between Indonesia and Thailand, particularly in trade, will bolster regional stability. Both nations have agreed to target US$20 billion in bilateral trade by 2030 and are establishing a Joint Trade Commission to reduce barriers. The partnership aims to move beyond competition by optimising complementary sectors such as agriculture, automotive supply chains, and digital economy.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:00 WIB
Hundreds of Madrasah Teachers in Pidie, Aceh, Trained in Coding and Artificial Intelligence
Hundreds of madrasah teachers in Pidie Regency, Aceh, have participated in technical guidance on coding and artificial intelligence (AI). The training aims to equip educators with the skills to write programming commands and utilise AI, enabling them to integrate modern technology into their teaching. Despite limited facilities, organisers noted exceptionally high enthusiasm among teachers for mastering these essential digital competencies.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:00 WIB
Students in Solo Wash Red and White Flags to Welcome 81st Independence Day
Students at SD Negeri 3 Mojosongo in Solo, Central Java, participated in a mass flag-washing activity to prepare for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The event aimed to instil a sense of patriotism and respect for national symbols from an early age. The school hopes the simple act will help students understand nationalism and foster values of mutual cooperation and pride in their country.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 16:00 WIB
Adidaya Institute Urges Governance Overhaul of Free Nutritious Meals Programme Under Sudaryono
The Adidaya Institute is calling for improved governance of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme as Sudaryono assumes leadership of the National Nutrition Agency. The think tank cites strong public support, with 71.5% backing the programme, but highlights concerns over management, budget use, and corruption risks. Experts stress the programme's potential as a long-term investment in human capital and economic growth.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 15:59 WIB
Electric car options priced around Rp200 million at GIIAS 2026
The Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2026 showcases a growing range of electric vehicles priced around Rp200 million, including city cars, hatchbacks, and compact SUVs. New models from Chery, Geely, Wuling, Seres, Changan, and Jaecoo are among the affordable options attracting visitors. The increasing variety highlights intensifying competition in Indonesia's affordable electric car market.