Air Pollution Risks Boost EV Popularity: Latest Kompas Research and Development Findings

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – The issue of air pollution is considered the most strategic entry point for promoting the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in Indonesia. Public awareness of the increasingly evident impacts of pollution is strengthening acceptance of low-emission vehicles. This is reflected in the findings of a Litbang Kompas survey, which shows that public perceptions of electric vehicles are generally positive, particularly as a solution to reducing air and noise pollution. “The highest positive top-of-mind association is being pollution-free. This means that the public has strongly linked electric vehicles to being an environmentally friendly solution,” said Wirdatul Aini, a Litbang Kompas researcher, during the presentation of the survey results in West Jakarta on Wednesday (8/4/2026). The survey involved 500 respondents spread across five provinces: Jakarta, West Java, East Java, North Sumatra, and South Sumatra. In addition to being viewed as a solution, electric vehicles are becoming increasingly relevant because the public still considers fuel-based vehicles as the main source of air pollution. This situation positions the transportation sector as the primary focus in efforts to reduce emissions. Furthermore, the pollution issue is no longer perceived as an abstract problem. Its impacts have been directly felt by the public in daily life. “The air pollution issue is no longer something abstract, but has had a real impact on public health,” said Wirdatul. Around 60 percent of respondents admitted to having experienced or having family members affected by health problems due to air pollution in the last few months. This high awareness is directly proportional to support for government policies in promoting electric vehicles. The majority of respondents stated they agree if the government accelerates EV adoption as part of efforts to curb air pollution.