TANGERANG, Indonesia – July 25, 2024 – In a significant move towards promoting clean and sustainable mobility in Indonesia, PT Hyundai Motors Indonesia has partnered with Blue Bird, a leading transportation company, to introduce 10 units of the all-new KONA Electric to IKN Nusantara. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support environmentally friendly transportation in the new capital city, emphasizing the importance of clean mobility solutions.
Ceremonial Handover at GIIAS 2024
The handover ceremony for the all-new KONA Electric units was a highlight at the 2024 GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS), held at the Indonesia Convention Exhibition (ICE) BSD City. The event took place on July 25, 2024, just a week after the official release of the Hyundai KONA Electric in Indonesia. This EV (electric vehicle) is notably the first in Indonesia to feature a locally produced battery, marking a significant milestone in the country’s automotive industry.
Coody Johasman Madjid, Chief Commercial Officer of PT Blue Bird Tbk, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We have been operating electric cars for five years in major cities like Jakarta, Bandung, and Semarang. Now, we are proud to extend this initiative to IKN Nusantara, utilizing the all-new KONA Electric to support cleaner mobility.” This partnership not only highlights the commitment of both companies to sustainable transportation but also underscores the growing importance of electric vehicles in urban mobility.
Hyundai’s Commitment to Electrification
Hyundai Motors Indonesia’s partnership with Blue Bird is part of a broader strategy to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in Indonesia. The company is committed to strengthening the EV ecosystem in the country, which includes the operation of the HLI battery cell factory. This facility produces local EV batteries, allowing Hyundai to quickly distribute units following their launch.
The introduction of the all-new KONA Electric in Indonesia is a significant step in this direction. The vehicle is designed with a spacious interior, featuring dimensions of 4,355 mm in length, 1,825 mm in width, 1,580 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,660 mm. One of the standout features is the implementation of a flat floor without tunneling in the second row, enhancing the cabin’s spaciousness and comfort. These design elements make the KONA Electric an ideal choice for a luxurious, sustainable taxi service, particularly in a city like IKN Nusantara, which prioritizes environmentally friendly transportation options.
Supporting Blue Bird’s Sustainability Vision
The collaboration between Hyundai and Blue Bird also supports Blue Bird’s Sustainability Vision, which aims to reduce emissions by 50 percent by 2030. This initiative aligns with Indonesia’s broader goals of achieving net zero emissions by 2060 or sooner. By incorporating the all-new KONA Electric into their fleet, Blue Bird is taking a significant step towards realizing these goals.
Coody Johasman Madjid further elaborated on this vision, stating, “This partnership not only enhances our fleet but also plays a crucial role in our commitment to sustainability. By integrating electric vehicles like the KONA Electric, we are actively contributing to reducing our carbon footprint and supporting the government’s environmental objectives.”
The Role of Electric Vehicles in Indonesia’s Future
The introduction of the all-new KONA Electric in IKN Nusantara is a testament to the growing role of electric vehicles in Indonesia’s transportation landscape. As the country continues to urbanize and develop new infrastructure, there is an increasing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility. Electric vehicles, with their lower emissions and reduced environmental impact, are seen as a key component of this future.
Hyundai’s efforts to localize battery production through the HLI battery cell factory are particularly noteworthy. By producing EV batteries locally, Hyundai not only reduces the carbon footprint associated with importing these components but also supports local industry and creates jobs. This move is expected to catalyze further investment in the local EV ecosystem, encouraging other manufacturers to follow suit.
The spacious design of the KONA Electric, with its innovative use of interior space and advanced features, positions it as a leading choice for modern, eco-friendly transportation solutions. As Blue Bird integrates these vehicles into their fleet, passengers in IKN Nusantara can look forward to a more comfortable and sustainable travel experience.
Looking Ahead
The partnership between Hyundai Motors Indonesia and Blue Bird is a significant step towards a more sustainable future for Indonesia’s transportation sector. It demonstrates a commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship, and collaboration between industry leaders. As the world moves towards a greener future, initiatives like this will be crucial in achieving global climate goals and creating a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations.
The adoption of the all-new KONA Electric in IKN Nusantara is just the beginning. As more cities in Indonesia embrace electric vehicles, the positive impacts on air quality, urban noise levels, and overall environmental health will become increasingly apparent. This collaboration sets a powerful example for other companies and cities to follow, highlighting the benefits of investing in clean, sustainable technologies.
