The Progress of Electric Vehicles (EVs) Transition in Indonesia Aiming Environmental Sustainability

Abstract

Environmental issues affect the lives of a large number of people; thus, they require greater attention. The growing number of motorized cars in Indonesia has made the environmental problems worsen day by day. Air pollution is caused by motor vehicle emissions, and in 2023 Jakarta is considered to rank as the 29^th most congested city in the world. For many Indonesians, this has resulted in the increased production of emissions, which has a negative impact on their general way of life and health. The government has realized that switching to more ecologically friendly electric vehicles (EVs) from fossil fuel-powered vehicles is crucial and necessary. Because of its heavy reliance on non-renewable energy sources, Indonesia finds it difficult to promote and integrate EVs. Therefore, this study tries to analyze the progress that Indonesia has made in transitioning from conventional vehicles that run on fossil fuels to electric vehicles as part of the country’s environmental diplomacy commitment. The authors employ a qualitative research approach through secondary data based on academic research journals. The authors also make a comparison of Indonesia's progress with the European Union (EU) and China’s own progress, which have successfully implemented EVs into their markets for the past few years. Additionally, this article explains the setbacks Indonesia experiences in the form of challenges and risks that arise. Lastly, the study provides a number of solution recommendations that could help Indonesia gradually transition to the use of electric vehicles and solve this environmental issue.