BYD M6 Success in Indonesia: Will Wuling Respond

Will Wuling Join the 7-seater Electric Car Race?

The Indonesian electric car market is heating up, with 7-seater models gaining popularity. The BYD M6 claimed the top spot in October 2024 with 1,866 units sold. This success has sparked curiosity about whether Wuling Motors, a big player in the Indonesian market, will jump into the fray with a 7-seater electric MPV of its own.

When questioned about the possibility, Brian Gomgom, Wuling Motors Public Relations Manager, emphasized the evolving nature of the electric vehicle (EV) landscape.

“We really can’t see the shape of the EV segment yet. What kind of section is it, what kind of body, how many people can it fit. What we see is that the use of EVs is different from ICE cars. The thing is the ability," Gomgom told journalists.

Gomgom noted that Wuling considers EVs a distinct category from traditional gasoline-powered cars. He points out that most BEV electric cars currently serve as daily drivers, minimizing the need for larger vehicles capable of carrying seven passengers.

"Because most EVs are used every day. For normal purposes, it goes to the office, work, college or for shopping. And usually the capacity in the car is only 2-4 people," said Gomgom.

This market analysis, based on Wuling’s own EV users, has led the company to remain confident in its existing lineup. Wuling currently offers the Air EV, Binguo EV, and Cloud EV – all of which have secured spots among the top 10 best-selling electric vehicles in Indonesia through October 2024.

"That’s what we see. Based on users who have used Wuling electric cars. So we see that these three car product lines are still relevant, they can still answer the needs of users until this," Gomgom repeated.

Whether Wuling will eventually join the 7-seater electric car market remains to be seen. For now, the company appears content with its current offerings, catering to the needs of the daily commuter market. Only time will tell if Wuling will adapt its strategy to embrace the growing demand for larger family-friendly electric vehicles.