TANGERANG – In 2024, Wuling celebrates its seventh anniversary in the automotive industry, marking a period of rapid growth and success that has established it as the most successful Chinese car brand in Indonesia. Since its market entry, Wuling has sold hundreds of thousands of vehicles, expanded its dealer network extensively, led the electric vehicle (EV) market, and begun exporting its products internationally.
Establishing a Strong Foundation
Arif Pramadana, Vice President of PT SAIC General Motors Wuling Indonesia, reminisced about the brand’s early days. “Before we started sales in Indonesia in 2017, we demonstrated our commitment by inaugurating a factory in Cikarang, Bekasi, in August 2015,” he said during the Pressday event at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2024 in Serpong, Tangerang.
This strategic move laid a solid foundation for Wuling’s operations in Indonesia, allowing the company to locally assemble vehicles and create jobs. Over the past seven years, Wuling has launched eight different models, both conventional and electric, including the Wuling Confero, Wuling Cortez, Wuling Formo, Wuling Almaz, Wuling Alvez, Wuling Air EV, Wuling Binguo EV, and Wuling Cloud EV.
Impressive Production and Employment Figures
“From the past until now, we have produced 146 thousand units of vehicles, employing 10 thousand workers from various fields,” Arif stated. This achievement underscores Wuling’s significant contribution to the Indonesian economy and automotive industry.
Out of the 146 thousand units produced, nearly 140 thousand units have been sold domestically, while the remaining units were exported to various countries. “Wuling’s export figures are around 5,500 units, with destinations across nearly 14 countries. Interestingly, one-third of these exports are electric cars, making Wuling the only Indonesian automotive manufacturer that exports fully electric vehicles,” Arif added.
Expanding Dealer Network and Market Presence
Over the past seven years, Wuling has expanded its dealer network to 150 locations throughout Indonesia. This extensive network, combined with a diverse lineup of locally assembled cars, has enabled Wuling to become the only Chinese car brand to penetrate the top 10 best-selling car brands in Indonesia. According to retail sales data from the Association of Indonesian Automotive Industries (Gaikindo) from January to June 2024, Wuling is currently the ninth best-selling car brand, with the list dominated by Japanese brands.
Leading the Electric Vehicle Market
Wuling’s most significant achievement to date is its leadership in the Indonesian pure electric car market. With cumulative sales of over 20 thousand units, Wuling holds more than half of the market share for pure electric vehicles. “Wuling has succeeded in strengthening its position with cumulative sales figures of more than 20 thousand units in Indonesia. With that, Wuling has dominated the Indonesian pure electric car market with a market share of 52 percent since the beginning of the year until June 2024. This achievement makes Wuling the number one electric car brand in Indonesia,” Arif concluded.
Looking Ahead
Wuling’s remarkable journey over the past seven years is a testament to its strategic vision, commitment to quality, and ability to adapt to market trends. As the brand continues to grow and innovate, it sets a high standard for other automotive manufacturers in Indonesia and beyond. No other Chinese car brand has been able to match Wuling’s comprehensive achievements in the Indonesian market.
With a strong foothold in the domestic market and a growing presence in the international arena, Wuling is poised for even greater success in the coming years. The company’s focus on electric vehicles aligns with global trends towards sustainability and eco-friendly transportation, positioning Wuling as a key player in the future of the automotive industry.
Wuling’s journey is far from over. As it celebrates its seventh anniversary, the brand is looking ahead to new opportunities and challenges, determined to maintain its leadership and continue its impressive growth trajectory.