Guangzhou. Car distributor Indomobil Energi Baru and China's electric vehicle manufacturer GAC Aion are gearing up to launch the Aion Y Plus for the Indonesian market. This electric vehicle will be available starting in July 2024.

Following the Aion Y Plus, additional models will be introduced, and GAC Aion plans to establish an assembly facility in Indonesia.

The electric vehicle market in Indonesia is starting to get competitive, featuring brands from Japan, South Korea, and China. Nevertheless, GAC Aion remains optimistic about entering the Indonesian market, leveraging its position as the third-largest BEV (battery electric vehicle) manufacturer globally.

"We hold the third highest position in the world for BEV sales. Our brand has already been exporting vehicles, and we entered the Thailand market last year. For the Indonesian market, it is crucial for us. That is why we are partnering with Indomobil and focusing on the Indonesian market," said Vice President of Aion Indonesia, Qin Bangshu, in Guangzhou, China, on Tuesday.

Compared to other electric vehicles, including those from China, Qin Bangshu highlighted the diverse range of products GAC Aion offers. Additionally, GAC manufactures its own batteries.

"Our production is distinct. We offer a range of products from the low segment to the high segment. We have SUVs, hatchbacks, and we will have MPVs in the future," said Qin Bangshu.

GAC Aion recognizes that many consumers in Indonesia prefer family-oriented vehicles. Therefore, the models introduced will be tailored to meet the needs of Indonesian consumers.

"We will introduce the Aion Y Plus, which is great for family drives. As for a seven-passenger vehicle, that will be our next step for the Indonesian market," Qin Bangshu added.

For the long-term plan, GAC Aion aims to introduce two to three new models annually. "Our plan is to introduce two to three models each year, so within three years, we will have seven models in Indonesia," said Qin Bangshu.

"We will do this gradually, and we will cater to all market segments from the lowest to the highest," he concluded.

The Aion Y Plus is a five-seater crossover between a small multipurpose van (MPV) and a sport utility vehicle (SUV). It has a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery that can be charged up to 80 percent in just 30 minutes using a DC fast charger. It also supports Level 2 charging, which takes around 8 hours for a full charge. The battery capacity is 63.2 kWh and can output 225 Nm torque, with a driving range of 490 kilometers. Its max speed is limited to 150 kilometers per hour.

The Aion Y Plus was offered in Thailand in two versions with a starting price of 1,069,900 baht or around Rp 471.8 million, and a 68.2 kWh battery version priced at 1,299,900 baht.