ITB Observer: Transition To Electricity General Transportation Needs Long-Term Political Commitment, Not Enough Ambitious Capital

Photo Archives - Electric buses passed through the office area of the Bogor Regency Government, West Java Province, Tuesday (17/12/2024). (ANTARA PHOTO/YULIUS SATRIA WIJAYA)

JAKARTA - The government is targeting a massive transition from fossil fuel public transport to battery-based electric vehicles, with a target of 100 percent realized by 2045.

However, automotive observer from the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), Yannes Martinus Pasaribu, believes that this transition is not enough just to have an ambitious target, but requires a comprehensive strategy and strong political commitment.

"This is not just a dream to replace fossil fuel buses with electric buses, but also to build an ecosystem that supports, financial sustainability, and public support," Yannes said when contacted, Antara, Sunday, June 29.

According to Yannes, the success of the electric vehicle program is highly dependent on the clear side and direction of government policy. Because this program is government-driven, a long-term vision and policy consistency are absolutely necessary.

"Without clarity and continuity of policy, this transition could be hampered in the middle of the road," he said.

He also emphasized the importance of transparent communication to all stakeholders, ranging from transportation operators, vehicle manufacturers, investors, to the general public. This is important to build trust and strengthen support for the electric vehicle program.

The government is targeting most electricity-based public transport facilities by 2030, and overall public transportation will be emission-free by 2045. This step is taken to reduce carbon emissions and reduce air pollution, particularly in urban areas and tourist destinations.

To support this program, PT Transport Jakarta (Transjakarta) also targets 50 percent of its fleet to use electricity by 2027, and all of them by 2030.

Furthermore, Yannes reminded that supporting ecosystems such as charging infrastructure, electric vehicle financing schemes, to the availability of component supplies, must be prepared early on. Without it, the transition could be jammed in the middle of the road.

"Policy consistency is the key so that investors dare to invest, and operators feel safe to transition," he said.