A few years ago, electric bicycles might have been seen only in certain areas, used by enthusiasts or people who wanted to stand out. But nowadays, in various major cities in Indonesia, these tiny, silent vehicles are increasingly seen on the roads of residential complexes, campus areas, and even on the city's greenways.
electric bicycle or electric bike is becoming a trend in new mobility that is practical, cost-effective, and of course environmentally friendly.
Rapid year-over-year growth
Data shows that interest in two-wheeled electric vehicles has risen dramatically in the last four years, according to PLN's RUPTL report and Databoks. The number of registered electric bicycles/motorcycles in Indonesia jumped from 3,325 units in 2020 to more than 167,000 units in August 2024, showing an almost 50-fold increase in just four years!
The steepest increase occurred from 2023 to 2024, as government support grows more vigorous and public awareness of air pollution increases. The electric vehicle purchase subsidy program and the initiative to convert gasoline-powered motorcycles into electric motorcycles also accelerate the adoption of this technology.
Why are electric bicycles in demand?
- Practical for close range.Many users choose e-bikes for daily needs: dropping the kids off at school, shopping at a minimarket, or cruising around the complex without hassle.
- Operating costs are very low, Full battery charging only requires electricity worth a few hundred rupiahs, with a range of 30–40 km. No need to refuel or change the oil.
- Environmentally friendly and tranquil, There is no exhaust sound, there is no combustion smoke. Just the tires rubbing on the asphalt and a light breeze ssserrr… uinggg…
- A modern and easy-to-use display. E-bike designs are becoming increasingly diverse, from folding models to retro-styled electric motorcycles, with even some local brands already producing them at prices below Rp10 million.
Trends in the Residential Environment
Many residents of modern housing developments have begun to make electric bicycles their primary vehicle for short-distance trips. In suburban areas such as BSD, Bekasi, or Denpasar, electric bicycles have become a symbol of a new lifestyle: calm, efficient, and pollution-free.
I used to ride a regular motorcycle to take the kids to their lessons; now using an electric bike is more convenient. It's not noisy, doesn't smell of gasoline, and the kids like it, said Lina, 38, a resident of the Green Village housing complex in South Jakarta.
Stories like this are heard more and more often. From housewives to remote workers, everyone enjoys the practicality of electric bicycles without having to incur large costs.
Government Support & Bright Future
The government targets 2 million units of two-wheeled electric vehicles produced in Indonesia in 2025. In addition to direct subsidies for purchases, there is also a program to convert gasoline-powered motorcycles to electric, as well as tax incentives for manufacturers.
With this momentum, many parties predict that Indonesia's e-bike market will grow by more than 15% per year through 2030. Moreover, amid urbanization and fuel prices that keep rising, lightweight electric vehicles become a logical and sustainable solution.
From Trend to Lifestyle
What's interesting is that electric bikes are now not only about technology, but also a lifestyle. People who switch to e-bikes do not do so merely to save money, but to live a calmer, more active, and more environmentally friendly life.
As Dedi (45 years old), a resident of a housing cluster in Tangerang, said, "Using an electric bike makes the surroundings more peaceful, with fresh air, not noisy, and I can ride around the complex every morning without disturbing anyone."
The Future of Indonesia's Light Mobility
From sales figures to user experience, everything points to one thing: electric bikes are no longer just a trend, but part of the transformation of urban lifestyles.
With government policy support, increasing local production, and the public's rapidly growing interest, e-bikes are ready to become an important part of Indonesia's everyday mobility that is greener and quieter.
So, if you're still unsure, perhaps now is the time to try.
Ride an electric bike, feel the difference, it's not noisy but still cool.
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