Public Perception of EVs Already Positive, Adoption Still Hindered

JAKARTA – Public perception of electric vehicles in Indonesia is increasingly showing a positive direction, in line with growing public awareness of the impacts of air pollution, which is no longer abstract but directly felt in daily life. This condition serves as an important signal that the transition to low-emission vehicles is beginning to be accepted. However, on the other hand, readiness for adoption in the field still faces several challenges. “The majority of respondents already associate electric vehicles as a pollution-free solution, both in terms of air and noise, so their perception tends to be positive,” said Aini at the event on Challenges in Accelerating Electric Vehicles in Indonesia in West Jakarta, Wednesday (8/4/2026). In a survey involving 500 respondents from five provinces, Kompas Research and Development found that environmental issues are the main entry point in shaping that perception. Electric vehicles are seen as capable of contributing to reducing air pollution, which has long been considered a real problem in various urban areas. This awareness is inseparable from the direct experiences of the public. Around 60 percent of respondents admitted to having experienced or having family members affected by health problems due to air pollution, such as coughing, within the last one to three months. This finding reinforces that pollution issues are no longer just environmental concerns but have become real health problems. Therefore, electric vehicles are viewed as a relevant solution, particularly to curb emissions from the transportation sector. However, this positive perception has not yet been fully followed by public readiness to switch. Several respondents still consider fuel-based vehicles more practical, especially because refuelling only takes a few minutes, compared to electric vehicles which require longer times and are supported by infrastructure that is not yet evenly distributed. In addition, the public also believes that accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles requires an active role from the government. Expected steps include tightening regulations on vehicle manufacturers and providing incentives to make electric vehicle prices more affordable.