Electric Car Consumers Now More Rational, Not Just Driven by FOMO

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – Amidst the increasingly competitive electric vehicle (EV) market, consumer behaviour is said to be undergoing a shift. The EV trend, often associated with the fear of missing out (FOMO) phenomenon, is considered not entirely accurate in describing the profile of its buyers.

According to Darwin Kesuma, Chief Operating Officer at Sun Motor Group (dealer for Chery and JAECOO), EV buyers are generally not impulsive consumers. This means that the decision to purchase an EV is more based on careful consideration, rather than simply following a trend.

Consumers already have experience using conventional cars before comparing and evaluating electric vehicle options. According to the company’s internal survey, the majority of consumers who have used EVs do not return to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. This decision is made after experiencing the vehicle directly over a period of time.

Darwin said there are three main considerations that make consumers stick with electric vehicles. First is the more measurable cost efficiency, both in terms of energy and maintenance, especially for daily use in urban areas. Second is the different driving experience, ranging from instant acceleration, a quieter cabin, to smoother vehicle responsiveness. Third is the aspect of practicality, because the minimal number of moving parts makes maintenance relatively simpler and home charging is considered more practical.

With a more rational and experience-based buyer profile, the electric vehicle market in Indonesia is considered to be moving towards a more mature phase. KOMPAS.com is committed to providing clear, trustworthy, and balanced facts. Support the sustainability of quality journalism and enjoy ad-free reading through Membership. Join KOMPAS.com Plus now.