Is Southeast Asia’s mobility industry transformation-ready?

Southeast Asia is one of the largest yet least understood markets in Asia-Pacific. Wedged between India and China, this region has never received the attention that it truly deserves. This is one of the most attractive markets in the world, with a population of about 600 million, US$ 3.1 trillion GDP projected to grow at 5% in 2021, and 2.5 million units of light vehicles.

However, there are some inherent challenges in the market. Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand contribute to 80% of the total market but their regulations, taxation and market structure are completely different. It does give them a basis to collaborate due to clearly delineated segments; however, it poses tremendous challenges to a new entrant.

Japanese OEMs have chosen to stay in this region despite its economic ups and downs. Except for Malaysia, which pursued national car as a policy, the combined market share of Japanese carmakers is more than 80%.

However, there are winds of change with the growing focus on electrification and sustainable theme within the industry. Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Singapore have announced their electrification roadmaps. Each country has followed a unique approach. For now, the incentives are limited to attracting investment in production plants by giving tax and duty concessions. Except for Singapore, the charging infrastructure incentives and plans are weak, but they have attracted several new players to the region. Recently, Chinese auto players have focused on the region, making their presence felt. Hyundai announced plans to set up a battery manufacturing plant and vehicle assembly plant in Indonesia.

Will electrification succeed in Southeast Asia? How do Chinese companies view this market? What is the perspective of mobility startups? How do IT services plan to enable the transition, and what role do regulators intend to play?

These are some of the key questions that will be discussed in the upcoming Intelligent Mobility Summit 2021 on July 14 and 15. Frost & Sullivan