Toyota is actively promoting hybrid vehicles to safeguard its market share in Indonesia, especially at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2024. The following are the main highlights:

1. Showcasing Hybrid Models:

Toyota showcased its latest Prius hybrid models at the GIIAS 2024, which started on on July 17, 2024. This move is seen as a strategic effort to maintain its strong presence in Southeast Asia's largest auto market.

2. Market Leadership:

Toyota currently holds a dominant position in the Indonesian automotive market, with a market share of over 50% in the first half of 2024. However, the company faces increasing competition, especially from Chinese EV manufacturers.

3. Hybrid Strategy:

Toyota is emphasizing its hybrid technology as a bridge between conventional internal combustion engines and fully electric vehicles. The company argues that hybrids are more suitable for Indonesia's current infrastructure and consumer needs.

4. Benefits of Hybrids:

Hiroyuki Ueda, President of Toyota Indonesia, highlighted the advantages of hybrid technology, including fuel efficiency and suitability for Indonesia's heavy traffic conditions.

5. Competition from Chinese EVs:

Chinese automakers like BYD and BAIC Motor are aggressively entering the Indonesian market with affordable and technologically advanced electric vehicles. This presents a significant challenge to Toyota's market dominance.

6. Government Policy:

The Indonesian government is promoting the adoption of electric vehicles to reduce carbon emissions and leverage the country's abundant nickel resources, which are crucial for EV battery production.

7. Market Potential:

The Indonesian automotive market still has significant growth potential. The current ratio of car ownership is about 90 vehicles per 1,000 people, much lower than in neighboring countries like Thailand (233 per 1,000) and Malaysia (400 per 1,000).

8. Future Plans:

Toyota plans to introduce more hybrid products in the future, as public interest in electrified vehicles is growing. The company is also preparing to launch pure electric vehicles like the bZ4x in the Indonesian market.

9. Local Production:

Toyota has announced plans to begin local production of hybrid cars in Indonesia, further strengthening its commitment to the market and potentially reducing costs.

Toyota's strategy of pushing hybrid vehicles at the Indonesian motor show is a calculated move to defend its market leadership against the rising tide of Chinese EVs while also preparing for a gradual transition to fully electric vehicles. This approach aligns with Indonesia's current infrastructure limitations and consumer preferences, while also positioning Toyota for future market developments.