"In the next two years, we expect to begin the downstreaming of batteries produced within Indonesia, primarily nickel-based batteries," he said after attending the opening of the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) in Makassar on Wednesday.
He noted that the government is continuing efforts to push for battery downstreaming, as evidenced by the presence of factories from several consortiums currently under construction in Karawang, as well as some consortiums involving state-owned enterprises (SOEs).
At this largest automotive exhibition in Indonesia, environmentally friendly vehicles, including electric vehicles, were also highlighted.
According to Setia Diarta, every booth at the automotive exhibition featured low-emission vehicles, while also offering education on the benefits of using environmentally friendly vehicles.
"So, every visitor can see the developments and contributions of the displayed vehicles in terms of emissions, technological advancements, the types of batteries used, and everything else that can be directly interacted with," he explained.
Chairman of the Indonesian Automotive Industry Association (Gaikindo) Putu Juli Ardika mentioned that the development of vehicle technology, particularly electric vehicles, is highly suitable for the people of South Sulawesi, given the region's surplus electricity production.
"The technology for these vehicles now allows for home charging. So, even while driving, it can be managed, especially since South Sulawesi produces excess electricity," he said.
Gaikindo has noted that GIIAS Makassar plays a significant role, with a target of contributing 4.1 percent to national sales in Indonesia.
Putu Juli is optimistic about these sales targets, as Makassar serves as a hub for Eastern Indonesia, with a population of approximately 1.4 million in the city, and about 50 million people in the broader eastern region. "The potential is large, especially considering the low vehicle ownership rate per thousand people," he added.
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Translator: Nur, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Primayanti
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