Logistics industry begins transitioning to electric fleet to cut emissions

JAKARTA (ANTARA) – PT Jasa Berdikari Logistics Tbk (JBL) has officially partnered with PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BNI) through a strategic green loan facility totalling Rp150 billion. This concrete step marks the beginning of a new era for the national logistics industry transitioning towards an eco-friendly ecosystem (green logistics).

JBL Managing Director James Budiarto stated that 50 electric trucks will be deployed for operations in June, supplied as completely knocked down (CKD) units assembled by PT Indomobil. ‘Our aim is to deploy at least 100 units this year,’ he said in Jakarta on Monday.

Through this partnership, JBL targets acquiring a total of 500 electric trucks by 2030 to reduce carbon emissions. Of the Rp150 billion financing from BNI, Rp120 billion is allocated for future fleet investment, covering 150 trucks including 100 electric units (primarily N90 box models) and 50 diesel trucks.

Initially, the 500-unit target was set for completion within five years, but market developments and operational needs have accelerated this to two years. The large-scale adoption of electric trucks is seen as a strategic solution to high logistics costs, particularly in Eastern Indonesia regions like Palu and Kendari where subsidised diesel shortages force trucks to queue for up to two days and nights. This has pushed operators to use non-subsidised alternatives like Dexlite, whose prices have surged, pushing operational costs from 30% to 40-50% of total expenses.

‘Our calculations show this transformation is unavoidable,’ James added. The electric trucks are projected to significantly reduce fuel dependence, securing long-term efficiency. This energy efficiency also allows JBL to maintain stable service pricing at pre-fuel price surge levels.

BNI representative Chandra Bahagia, Manager of Commercial Business Management and Acting Regional Head 1, stated the financing partnership positions JBL as Indonesia’s first logistics company to implement a large-scale electric truck fleet. BNI is committed to being more than a fund provider, acting as a financial partner supporting the green ecosystem from upstream to downstream.

To address infrastructure challenges such as charging stations, JBL has integrated collaboration with manufacturer JAC, distributor PT Indomobil, and charging station providers to ensure smooth operations of the eco-friendly fleet.