[POPULAR AUTOMOTIVE] BYD Indonesia Factory, Transition to Electric Vehicles

JAKARTA — The Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD has provided an update on its factory development and car production plans in Indonesia. Presiden Director of PT BYD Motor Indonesia, Eagle Zhao, stated that the company has obtained a number of important certifications from the government by the end of 2025. Following this, BYD has begun entering the testing and production process alignment phase in early this year.

The competitive landscape of the four-wheeled vehicle market in the national automotive sector in February 2026 continues to be dominated by established players, although several new brands are beginning to show significant contributions to sales. According to data from the Association of Indonesian Automotive Manufacturers (Gaikindo), Toyota has reclaimed the position of Indonesia’s best-selling car brand in February 2026.

The geopolitical conflict between Iran, Israel and the United States is assessed as having the potential to impact the global automotive industry by triggering energy price increases, including fuel oil. This situation could drive a shift in consumer interest towards new energy vehicles (NEVs), such as electric cars and vehicles with other electrification technologies.

Many vehicle drivers frequently refuel at various public fuel stations with different brands, typically due to location factors, fuel availability, or to take advantage of price differences. This raises the question of whether frequently changing fuel brands can have an impact on vehicle performance and engine health in the long term.

Jasa Marga has predicted that the surge in travel during the 2026 Lebaran mudik (homecoming) will occur over a fairly extended period. Rivan A. Purwantono, Chief Executive Officer of PT Jasa Marga (Persero) Tbk, stated that the movement of travellers is estimated to begin increasing from mid-March onwards. “The forecast is spread across 13-29 March. Why? Because this two-week window is excellent. People can depart on Friday 13 March and return later in March,” said Rivan at the JMTC office in Jatiasih, Bekasi (9 March 2026).