Depok’s Green Transition: Transforming Urban Public Transport with Electric Microbuses

JAKARTA – In a pioneering move toward sustainable urban mobility, the Depok City Government is spearheading a transformative initiative to modernize its public transportation network. The Department of Transportation (Dishub) of Depok has officially announced plans to replace aging conventional minivans—locally known as angkot—with state-of-the-art electric vehicles (EVs). This transition marks a significant milestone in Indonesia’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing the quality of urban life through eco-friendly infrastructure.

The Shift Toward Sustainable Mobility: Main Facts

The Depok City Government has selected the Wuling Mitra EV as the primary vehicle to spearhead this transition. Currently, the local Department of Transportation is overseeing the modification process at specialized bodywork facilities (karoseri) to ensure these vehicles meet the functional requirements of public mass transit.

The initiative is designed to replace the legacy D10A fleet, which has served as the backbone of Depok’s public transport for decades. By integrating electric mobility, the city aims to eliminate tailpipe emissions, reduce noise pollution, and provide a more comfortable, reliable, and modern commuting experience for its citizens. This project is not merely an equipment upgrade; it represents a strategic shift toward a "Go Green" philosophy, aligning Depok with global trends in smart city development and sustainable urban planning.

Chronology: From Concept to Reality

The journey toward electric public transport in Depok did not happen overnight. It is the result of months of logistical planning, budget allocation, and strategic partnerships.

Feasibility Study Phase: The Depok Department of Transportation initiated studies to evaluate the viability of electric vehicles for short-haul urban routes. The assessment focused on battery durability, charging infrastructure requirements, and the total cost of ownership compared to fossil-fuel-powered minivans.
Strategic Selection: Following the assessment, authorities identified the Wuling Mitra EV as the optimal candidate. Its commercial-grade specifications, coupled with the manufacturer’s established presence in Indonesia, provided the necessary confidence for local officials to proceed.
Karoseri Integration: In recent weeks, the project moved into the technical phase. Units are currently being retrofitted at bodywork facilities to adjust the interior layout for passengers, ensuring the vehicle maintains its role as a mass transit unit while retaining its original electric drivetrain capabilities.
Public Announcement: The official disclosure via the Department of Transportation’s social media channels signaled the transition from planning to public awareness, inviting feedback and setting expectations for the upcoming pilot programs.

Technical Specifications: The Wuling Mitra EV

The choice of the Wuling Mitra EV is backed by robust technical capabilities designed to withstand the rigors of high-frequency urban transit.

Dimensions and Capacity

The vehicle is built to accommodate passengers comfortably, featuring a length of 5,010 mm, a width of 1,800 mm, and a height of 1,975 mm. With a wheelbase of 3,050 mm, the vehicle provides a stable ride even on uneven urban roads, which is essential for passenger safety and comfort.

Battery and Range

At the heart of the vehicle lies a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery—a chemistry preferred for its safety and longevity. Two variants are available to suit different route lengths:

41.9 kWh (Long Range): Capable of covering up to 300 km on a single charge.
56.2 kWh (Premium Range): Capable of covering up to 400 km on a single charge.

This range is more than sufficient for the daily operating cycles of urban angkot, which typically traverse specific routes within the city limits.

Performance and Charging

The Mitra EV is powered by a 75 kW electric motor producing 180 Nm of torque, transmitted to the rear wheels. This allows for a top speed of 115 km/h, more than adequate for urban speeds. Drivers can toggle between Eco, Normal, and Sport modes to optimize energy consumption based on traffic conditions.

Crucially, the vehicle supports CCS2 fast charging. In a real-world scenario, the battery can be charged from 30% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes, allowing for minimal downtime during shift changes or rest periods.

Official Responses and Strategic Vision

Aan Syurahman, the Acting Head of the Depok Department of Transportation, emphasized that this transition is centered on user experience and inclusivity.

"We are currently finalizing the checks on the Wuling Mitra EV, which boasts a significant capacity. Our goal is to ensure that, moving forward, public transport in Depok is significantly more comfortable for the public," said Syurahman. He noted that the replacement of the aging D10A fleet is an essential step in modernizing the city’s face.

Furthermore, the Department of Transportation highlighted that these new electric minivans will be inherently more inclusive. The design process incorporates specific accommodations for passengers with disabilities and designated priority seating for pregnant women and the elderly. By prioritizing accessibility, the city aims to ensure that public transportation remains a viable option for all demographic segments, not just the able-bodied.

Implications for Depok and Beyond

The introduction of electric angkot in Depok carries profound implications for the city’s socio-economic and environmental landscape.

Environmental Impact

The most immediate impact is the reduction of localized air pollution. Conventional minivans often contribute significantly to high PM2.5 levels in dense urban centers like Depok. By transitioning to EVs, the city is taking a direct, measurable action to improve the health outcomes of its residents.

Economic Viability

While the initial investment for a Wuling Mitra EV minibus starts at approximately Rp 348 million, the long-term operational costs are projected to be substantially lower than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Electric vehicles require less maintenance—no oil changes, fewer moving parts, and lower energy costs per kilometer. The city government has indicated that these savings are expected to translate into more affordable fares for passengers, potentially increasing public transport ridership.

Setting a National Precedent

Depok’s initiative serves as a blueprint for other Indonesian cities struggling with the dual challenges of traffic congestion and pollution. By successfully demonstrating the integration of EVs into the "last mile" transport sector, Depok is positioning itself as a leader in Indonesia’s smart city movement. The success of this project could accelerate similar policies in neighboring satellite cities of Jakarta, effectively creating a "green corridor" of public transport across the Greater Jakarta (Jabodetabek) area.

Addressing Challenges and Future Outlook

While the vision is clear, the implementation phase will face hurdles. The primary challenge remains the development of a widespread charging network. While fast-charging stations are becoming more common, the city will need to ensure that charging hubs are strategically located near major transport terminals and hubs to prevent logistical bottlenecks.

Additionally, the transition requires a significant cultural shift for both drivers and passengers. Drivers will need to undergo training to manage electric drivetrains effectively, while passengers will need to adjust to a new, quieter, and more tech-integrated boarding experience.

However, the enthusiasm from the Depok administration suggests that the city is committed to overcoming these challenges through phased rollouts and public-private partnerships. As the vehicles move through the final stages of customization in the karoseri workshops, the residents of Depok are looking forward to a future where their daily commute is not only efficient but also environmentally responsible.

In conclusion, the modernization of Depok’s public transport system is a testament to the city’s forward-thinking governance. By embracing the Wuling Mitra EV, the city is not just replacing old machines with new ones—it is laying the groundwork for a sustainable, inclusive, and cleaner urban future that will serve as a model for the rest of the nation. The journey toward a greener Depok has begun, and it is moving at the speed of electricity.