At the 2025 Indonesia Electric Vehicle Show (PEVS), the spotlight was firmly on the SERES E1, an electric car that’s making waves for its affordability, smart features, and practical design tailored for the Indonesian market.
Also read: Seres Aims to Sell Hundreds of E1 Electric Cars at PEVS 2025
Autoini Exclusive Discussion with SERES Team: The Story Behind SERES & Its Future in Indonesia
During an exclusive interview on the SERES E1 live car tour during PEVS 2025, a company representative shared the history of the brand’s journey, along with a firm commitment to the Indonesian electric vehicle market.
“Our company has a long-standing history, having been established in China approximately 10 to 20 years ago. We began by manufacturing motorcycle components, with a primary focus on shock absorbers. As the business evolved, we expanded our capabilities to include the production of motorcycle engines and eventually complete motorcycles”
The factory in Gandhar, which now assembles electric cars for Indonesia, was once used to produce three-wheeled motorcycles. However, by 2007, the company transitioned the facility to begin manufacturing passenger cars.
Today, this manufacturer operates under a larger automotive group known as Sokon Automobile, which owns several brands in China. Of these, only DFSK and SERES are marketed in Indonesia.
SERES in Indonesia: Two Models, One Vision
In the Indonesian market, SERES offers two electric vehicle models:
A compact city EV, fully electric, and based on a modified version of their existing platform.
“We focus on making our cars affordable. SERES cars give good value, smart technology, and reliable features. We also provide warranty and after-sales service, so customers feel confident and worry-free.” SERES Team
The SERES E1 is already in production, and ready for booking and immediate delivery, having been manufactured locally for the past two years. The SERES 3 will start production around May–June 2025, with customer deliveries expected to begin by June–July.
What is the SERES E1?
The SERES E1 is a compact electric vehicle designed to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly cars in Indonesia. Manufactured by Seres Group, a global EV player, the E1 promises to deliver a clean, efficient, and cost-effective alternative to traditional petrol cars — ideal for urban and suburban driving.
Highlights of the Live Car Tour at PEVS 2025
During the live car tour, visitors and journalists got an up-close look at the E1’s modern exterior, interior, and tech features:
Seres E1 Exterior Features
- Color Options: Comes in four colors: Elegant White, Fairy Green, Mist Rose, and Oxygen Blue, so you can choose the one you like.
- Lighting
- It’s outfitted with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and LED Turn Signals for improved visibility.
- Features a High Mount Stop Lamp for improved rear-end visibility.
- Projector Headlamps provide focused illumination for better night driving.
- Aerodynamic Design
- Compact hatchback design contributes to AIDS, energy efficiency in reducing air resistance.
- Aerodynamic body lines increase stability and reduce the drag.
- Roof Features
- Roof rails are included for additional cargo carrying possibilities.
- Integrated antenna provides better radio reception without compromising the appearance.
- Additional Exterior Features
- Body-coloured bumpers and handles complete the look.
- Alloy wheels (13-inch) also conveniently come standard, adding both durability and style.
Also read: Seres Electric Cars in Indonesia: Price and Models
Seres E1 Interior Features
- Seating Configuration
- It seats four people comfortably and has adjustable headrests for both front and back seats.
- ISOFIX child seat anchors ensure secure installation of child safety seats.
- Dashboard & Controls
- Smart instrument cluster offers clear and concise information at a glance.
- Touch panel air conditioning controls provide intuitive climate management.
- A multifunctional steering wheel allows easy access to various vehicle functions.
- Electric side mirror adjustments enhance convenience.
- Infotainment & Connectivity
- Car audio system with speakers delivers quality sound.
- USB interface with smart charging capabilities supports modern devices.
- Comfort & Convenience
- Sun visors with vanity mirrors add to the convenience for both driver and passengers.
- Ambient interior lighting creates a pleasant cabin atmosphere.
- E-shift gear selector offers a modern and space-saving design.
- Safety & Security
- Seat belt reminder system secures all passengers.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) alerts driver to under-inflated tires.
- Driver and passenger airbags provide protection upon impact.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) improves breaking performance.
- Brake Assist (BA) applies brakes if sudden stop is detected.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control System (TCS) improves vehicle stability.
- Hill Hold Control (HHC) allows application of the brakes on an incline without rollback.
- Pedestrian Warning Sound notifies pedestrians of the vehicle’s presence.
- Event Data Recording System (EDRS) can record information during an accident.
- Automatic Lock & Collision Unlock gives the user an extra level of security.
| Feature | Seres E1 B-Type | Seres E1 L-Type |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 13.8 kWh | 16.8 kWh |
| Motor Power | 34 hp (25 kW) | 40 hp (30 kW) |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Driving Range | 180 km (NEDC) | 220 km (NEDC) |
| Top Speed | 100 km/h | 100 km/h |
| Transmission | Single-speed automatic | Single-speed automatic |
| Drive Type | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) |
| Charging Time | ~4 hours (10–90%) with 3.3 kW AC charger | ~4 hours (10–90%) with 3.3 kW AC charger |
| Battery Warranty | 8 years or 120,000 km | 8 years or 120,000 km |
Pricing and Market Position of DFSK Seres E1
Pricing
The DFSK Seres E1 is available in two variants with the following pricing:
- Seres E1 B-Type: IDR 189 million
- Seres E1 L-Type: IDR 219 million
The following price indicated is for the Jabodetabek area. The battery capacity is at least 13.8 kWh, which has a maximum range of 180 km for the B-Type, while the L-Type increase battery of 16.8 kWh gives a longer range of 220 km.
Market Position
DFSK Seres aims to capture a significant share of Indonesia’s electric vehicle (EV) market. Preceding the Periklindo Electric Vehicle Show (PEVS) 2024, the Seres E1 was the best-selling model with 103 units sold during the event.
Taking that energy, DFSK Seres set out a very ambitious goal of 30% of the overall battery electric vehicle (BEV) market in Indonesia. This represents a commitment to growing its stake in the growing EV industry.
Why Choose the Seres E1?
- Affordable and Practical: With a price tag under IDR 220 million, the Seres E1 offers an attractive entry point for Indonesians looking to switch to EVs.
- Urban Efficiency: With its small dimensions, good handling and decent range it will be a good city car and daily commuter.
- Low Running Costs: Electric powertrain means lower fuel and maintenance costs compared to traditional gasoline cars.
- Eco-Friendly: Zero tailpipe emissions contribute to cleaner air in Indonesia’s busy cities.
- Growing Support: Backed by DFSK’s expanding dealer network and dedicated service centers across Indonesia.
Also read: Seres 3 Showcased at PEVS 2025 with IDR 1M Booking Fee
Conclusion
The SERES E1 live tour at PEVS 2025 gave Indonesian consumers a clear look at an affordable, practical electric car option that fits local needs. With a competitive price, solid features, and respectable range, the E1 is positioned well to boost Indonesia’s EV market growth. For those ready to switch to electric without breaking the bank, the SERES E1 is a model worth watching.
