How a Chinese NEV contributes to greener mobility in Indonesia
Liuzhou is a well-known city for automobiles in China. It is home to renowned automotive companies like SAIC-GM Wuling. These companies, in partnership with the government, are actively working on developing new models that combine the promotion and use of new energy vehicles with industrial growth.
When you walk in Liuzhou, you will find the city a paradise for small and lightweight new energy vehicles. This has even become a popular attraction for visitors to the city.
Meanwhile, Liuzhou-based automobile manufacturers are making inroads into overseas markets. Indonesia, the biggest economy among ASEAN countries, is a significant partner in the "Belt and Road" initiative. Since 2015, SAIC-GM-Wuling has invested 1 billion U.S. dollars in Indonesia to establish an automotive industrial park that serves the Indonesian and Southeast Asian markets.
SAIC-GM-Wuling has shared its related technologies, such as vehicle-to-everything, smart voice, and advanced driver assistance systems, with its Indonesian subsidiary. This has helped in the development of the supply chains and created around 8,000 job opportunities in Indonesia.
Air EV is an electric vehicle produced by SAIC-GM-Wuling for global markets. Its predecessor is the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV, which originated in Liuzhou, Guangxi. This model gained popularity among global users due to its compact and lightweight body, trendy design, and affordable price.
In August 2022, the first Wuling Air EV was made in Indonesia. The Wuling Air EV received a positive response from local consumers upon its introduction due to its competitive pricing for new energy vehicles. Additionally, its performance and appearance are both practical, making it an exceptional car model.
During the 43rd ASEAN Summit in Jakarta this September, a total of 150 Wuling Air EV new energy vehicles, which are produced by the Indonesian subsidiary of the Chinese automobile manufacturer SAIC-GM-Wuling, were utilized to transport the delegates. These vehicles, adorned with a unique design showcasing the summit logo and a local cultural pattern, have garnered considerable interest.
This is not the first instance of a Chinese new energy vehicle brand being present at an international conference. In 2022, during the 17th G20 Summit in Bali, Indonesia, 300 Wuling Air EVs were also deployed as official vehicles, offering transportation services for participants.
As the trade and investment cooperation deepens between China and Indonesia, the two countries will continue seeking to achieve greater synergy in green industries including the manufacturing of NEVs.