Awaiting New Electric Vehicles in Indonesia: What Are They?
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Chinese manufacturers continue to invade Indonesia with a lineup of their flagship electric vehicles. Reportedly, several new brands are planned to enter the country in 2026. Indomobil is said to be bringing two Chinese electric vehicle brands to Indonesia. The two brands in question are Leapmotor and Hongqi. In addition, there is smart, which will be under the Inchcape banner. A few years ago, smart participated in the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2024. However, at that time, its models were only displayed and not yet sold officially. Then, there is Zeekr, which will be brought by Geely. Furthermore, Chery Group will not be left behind in marketing iCar. 1. Leapmotor This effort aims to strengthen the brand’s position while enhancing the competitiveness of the models marketed. Domestic production is also expected to contribute to the development of the national automotive industry. Regarding the production location, Indomobil stated that Leapmotor vehicles will be assembled using Indomobil’s manufacturing facilities located in the Cikampek industrial area, West Java. This step marks the seriousness of both companies in building a more comprehensive electric vehicle ecosystem in Indonesia. Indomobil Group’s expansion continues with the introduction of another Chinese automotive brand, Hongqi, to the Indonesian market. The launch of this brand is scheduled for 2026. This information refers to the information disclosure letter released through the official Indonesia Stock Exchange website on Tuesday (8/7/2025). The document states that PT Indomobil Sukses Internasional Tbk (IMAS) through its subsidiary, PT IMG Sejahtera Langsung (IMGSL), will act as the official distributor of Hongqi in the country. IMGSL will later be responsible for the distribution of vehicles, including after-sales services and the provision of spare parts covering all regions of Indonesia. Not stopping at distribution, Indomobil also revealed plans to assemble Hongqi vehicles locally. This strategy is part of efforts to strengthen competitiveness as well as expand contributions to the national automotive industry. After being introduced at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2024 in July, news about the smart electric car had quietened down. Nevertheless, Inchcape Automotive Indonesia assured that the brand will still be marketed in the country.