Daihatsu Sees Opportunity for LCGC Market Recovery

Jakarta – The end of government incentives related to imported electric vehicles (CBU) is being touted as a potential opportunity for several market segments that faltered last year.

One segment with potential for renewed growth is the low-cost green car (LCGC) category. This outlook is bolstered by positive market momentum during the first two months of 2026.

However, Tri Mulyono, Marketing & Corporate Relations Division Head at PT Astra International Tbk – Daihatsu Sales Operation, noted that LCGC growth in 2026 remains under close monitoring.

Regarding last year’s performance, Tri explained that Daihatsu’s primary obstacle centred on support from financing companies. This stems from the fact that financing partners themselves face challenges arising from elevated non-performing loan (NPL) rates.

“In our case, with approximately 80 per cent of purchases made via credit, the main constraint last year was support from financing institutions. They themselves face challenges with high NPL rates,” Tri said.

To address this situation, Tri explained that the company is taking proactive steps in consumer profiling for potential buyers.

“On the consumer profiling side for those purchasing our products, we endeavour to conduct screening early on. We communicate credit requirements from the outset, so we already know about the customer’s fixed income. Generally, the maximum monthly payment stands at around one-third of salary. Additionally, if consumers own assets such as their own home, this typically proves advantageous in the credit verification process,” he explained.