Electric Vehicle at IKN to Begin Operation in August 2024

Kalimantan – Indonesian Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi stated that electric-based mass transportation in the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) in East Kalimantan will begin operations in August 2024.

"We believe the implementation of electric vehicles in IKN will be feasible by August," the minister said during an inspection of Transjakarta mass transportation in Jakarta on Sunday (June 9).

The Nusantara Capital City Authority (OIKN) is procuring electric buses for mass transportation. In addition to electric buses, there will also be Autonomous-Rail Rapid Transit (ART) vehicles, which are trackless and powered by batteries, to serve mass transportation needs.

"ART is similar to a tram but unique in that it operates without tracks and electricity, using batteries instead. It will start running in August," the minister remarked.

As information, Indonesian officials are being encouraged to use electric vehicle.

Regarding flying taxis or passenger drones, Minister Sumadi mentioned that they have not yet found suitable regulations.

"Our regulations refer to those of developed countries. Even the United States has not granted formal approval," Minister Sumadi informed.

Therefore, the Ministry will not issue permits for flying taxis as a mode of transport in IKN.

"Using drones in the city carries risks. Therefore, we are not granting permits for flying taxis. They can be used for exhibitions, but not for public transport," the Minister remarked.

Earlier, regarding electric bus services, the Ministry of Transportation conducted a technical planning study for public transportation in the first stage of the Public Service Innovation Competition, proposing three route lines.

The three routes are: Park & Ride to the Grand Mosque, requiring a total of 13 medium buses; Park & Ride to the Botanical Garden, requiring a total of 7 medium buses; and Park & Ride 1 to Park & Ride 2, requiring a total of 21 vehicles.

For 2025, the Ministry has proposed a Buy the Service (BTS) budget to serve IKN routes.

The planned routes will be adjusted to the built land parcels, while the number of vehicles needed is still awaiting review and assessment by the OIKN team.