How Hyundai Expanded Its Automotive Footprint in Indonesia

Hyundai Motor Group has made significant strides in Indonesia, transforming the country into a central hub for its electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem. Through strategic investments in manufacturing, supply chains, and local partnerships, Hyundai has expanded its automotive footprint in Indonesia, aligning with the country’s ambitious goals for sustainability and industrial growth.

Establishing Indonesia’ First EV Chain

Hyundai Motors has recently become the first automaker to establish a complete EV supply chain in Indonesia. This achievement was highlighted by the inauguration of the joint venture Hyundai LG Indonesia Green Power in July 2024. The $1.1 billion joint venture with LG Energy marked the beginning of commercial production of lithium-ion battery cells in Indonesia, which are used to power Hyundai’s EV models.

Located in Karawang New Industry City, the plant produces 10 gigawatt-hours of battery cells annually, enough to support over 150,000 EVs. This project is a critical element of Hyundai’s strategy to dominate the fast-growing EV market in Indonesia and target the larger southeast Asian market as well.

Strategic Investments in Indonesia’s Automotive Sector

Hyundai’s vision for Indonesia extends far beyond battery production. In March 2022, Hyundai inaugurated the company’s first car plant in Southeast Asia, in Indonesia. Spanning 777,000 square meters, the factory produces multiple EV and Hybrid car models, which are popular in Indonesia. These vehicles are powered by the batteries manufactured at the Indonesian Battery plant, creating a vertically integrated production cycle. Hyundai aims to increase its presence in southeast Asia by establishing more efficient supply chain systems with the help of this plant.

Hyundai’s entry into Indonesia is part of a broader strategy to tap into the ASEAN market, where the population exceeds 670 million people, many of whom are young, tech-savvy, and open to new trends. Indonesia, with its rapidly growing middle class and substantial government incentives, is seen as a key market for Hyundai’s EV expansion.

The Indonesian government, under President Joko Widodo, has set a bold target to produce 600,000 EVs by 2030, alongside the ambition to become a top five global EV battery producer by 2040. Hyundai’s investments align with these goals, offering an ideal platform to support Indonesia’s transition to a green economy.

Why Indonesia?

Hyundai’s decision to focus on Indonesia is both strategic and timely. Indonesia boasts the world’s largest reserves of nickel, a crucial component in EV batteries.

Nickel Reserves as of 2024
By establishing its operations close to these resources, Hyundai ensures a reliable and cost-effective supply of raw materials for its battery production, positioning itself competitively in the global EV market. The Indonesian government’s support has been another critical factor. Following a ban on nickel ore exports, Indonesia has focused on building its nickel smelting and refining capabilities, ensuring that more value is added domestically. Further, coupled with attractive tax incentives for global automakers, Indonesia has rapidly become a magnet for EV investments.
A fully Integrated EV Ecosystem
Hyundai’s strategy in Indonesia doesn’t stop with vehicle and battery production. The automaker is working to develop a complete EV ecosystem, covering raw material sourcing, vehicle production, charging infrastructure, and waste battery recycling. In addition to producing EVs for the local market, Hyundai plans to supply batteries produced in Indonesia to other regions, including South Korea and India. Jang Jae-hoon, Hyundai Motor President and CEO, stated that the company is “making the best use of these batteries” to boost its global EV production capabilities. This fully integrated approach not only strengthens Hyundai’s position in Indonesia but also enhances its ability to compete on the global stage as more markets transition towards electric mobility.
Hyundai and its Future in Indonesia
Hyundai has positioned itself as a key partner in the country’s ambitions. By 2030, Hyundai aims to expand its share of the Indonesian market significantly, especially as local demand for electrified vehicles grows. EV sales in Indonesia are expected to climb sharply from 18,000 units in 2023, and Hyundai is prepared to meet this demand with its locally produced EVs. Indonesia’s young, tech-savvy population is another factor in Hyundai’s strategy. With 70% of the country’s 280 million people of working age, the market is primed for the adoption of innovative technologies, including electric vehicles. Hyundai’s expansion in Indonesia is a testament to its forward-thinking strategy in the automotive industry. By establishing a complete EV supply chain and leveraging Indonesia’s natural resources, Hyundai has not only secured its position in the ASEAN market but also aligned itself with global trends towards electrification and sustainability. As Indonesia works towards its goal of carbon neutrality by 2060, Hyundai’s investments will play a central role in shaping the future of mobility in the region.
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