Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Leapmotor has officially entered the Indonesian market, marking a significant milestone in its Southeast Asian expansion strategy with the establishment of a dual production base in Malaysia and Indonesia. The move strengthens the company’s regional manufacturing footprint while reinforcing ASEAN’s growing role as a strategic hub for electric vehicle (EV) production and supply chain development.
The official launch took place at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2026, where Leapmotor introduced its global B10 and C10 electric SUV models. At the same time, the company commenced local knock-down (KD) vehicle assembly in partnership with PT Indomobil National Distributor and PT National Assemblers, reflecting its long-term commitment to Indonesia’s automotive industry.
Building a Dual ASEAN Manufacturing Base
With production facilities now operating in both Malaysia and Indonesia, Leapmotor has become one of the few new-energy vehicle manufacturers to establish dual local manufacturing operations within ASEAN. This regional production strategy enables the company to respond more efficiently to market demand while reducing logistics costs and strengthening supply chain resilience.
Local assembly also allows manufacturers to better align with national industrial policies, improve cost competitiveness and support wider adoption of electric vehicles through locally produced models.
The expansion reflects a broader trend of global EV manufacturers shifting towards regionalised production networks as Southeast Asia emerges as one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive markets.
Indonesia Emerges as a Strategic EV Hub
Indonesia has become a key destination for electric vehicle investment due to its large domestic market, expanding automotive industry and abundant nickel reserves, an essential component in lithium-ion battery production.
The country’s push to develop a complete EV ecosystem—from battery materials and manufacturing to vehicle assembly and charging infrastructure—has attracted significant investment from international automakers and technology companies.
Leapmotor’s entry further strengthens Indonesia’s ambition to become a leading EV production centre while creating new opportunities for technology transfer, workforce development and local supplier participation.
Strengthening ASEAN’s Electric Vehicle Supply Chain
The establishment of manufacturing operations in both Malaysia and Indonesia demonstrates the increasing integration of ASEAN’s automotive supply chain.
Rather than competing independently, regional economies are becoming increasingly interconnected through complementary manufacturing capabilities, logistics networks and component suppliers.
As more EV manufacturers establish production within ASEAN, opportunities are expected to grow for local companies involved in battery systems, electronics, precision engineering, automotive components and digital mobility solutions.
This collaborative manufacturing ecosystem also enhances ASEAN’s attractiveness as a destination for global automotive investment.
Driving Industrial Growth Through Localisation
Leapmotor’s localisation strategy extends beyond vehicle production.
By assembling vehicles locally, the company is expected to contribute to employment creation, skills development and the growth of domestic supplier networks. Local production can also accelerate knowledge transfer in advanced automotive technologies while supporting government efforts to strengthen national manufacturing capabilities.
The initiative reflects the growing importance of partnerships between global automakers and regional industrial groups in supporting sustainable industrial development across Southeast Asia.
Supporting the Region’s Clean Mobility Transition
Electric vehicles are expected to play an increasingly important role in ASEAN’s transition towards lower-carbon transportation.
Governments across the region continue introducing incentives, infrastructure investments and industrial policies aimed at accelerating EV adoption while reducing transport-related emissions.
The arrival of new manufacturers such as Leapmotor increases consumer choice while encouraging greater competition, innovation and investment within the regional EV market.
Combined with expanding charging infrastructure and supportive policies, these developments are expected to accelerate the growth of sustainable mobility across ASEAN.
Looking Ahead
Leapmotor’s expansion into Indonesia represents more than the launch of a new automotive brand—it reflects the continuing evolution of ASEAN into a globally significant manufacturing and innovation hub for electric vehicles.
By establishing a dual production base in Malaysia and Indonesia, the company is strengthening regional supply chains while contributing to industrial development, technology transfer and clean mobility initiatives.
As ASEAN’s EV ecosystem continues to mature, investments of this nature are expected to reinforce the region’s competitiveness within the global automotive industry and support its transition towards a more sustainable and technology-driven future.
