Indonesia: Automobile Sales Fall 48.5% to 532,000 Units in 2020

The Indonesian automobile market decreased 48.5% from the previous year to 532,000 units in 2020. Sales nearly halved compared to 2019, falling to the lowest level since 2009 when the market dropped to 486,000 units. Due to social restrictions associated with the spread of new coronavirus infection, sales declined by more than 90% in April and May. After that, the recovery was sluggish, and sales dropped more than 30% in every month until the end of the year. Until December 2020, monthly sales were down for 18 consecutive months since July 2019.

By brand, the decline in small MPV sales, a popular vehicle type in Indonesia, was conspicuous. Market leader Toyota fell 51.4% to 161,000 units. However, the company's market share was 30.3%, remaining in the 30% range. The Avanza fell 58.6% to 36,000 units, the Rush declined 52.3% to 29,000 units, and the Calya dropped 57.0% to 23,000 units. Daihatsu's sales were down 48.8% to 91000 units. The GranMax pickup truck fell 33.9% to 24,000 units. Its rate of decline was lower compared to other models thanks to robust demand for light commercial vehicles. Meanwhile, the Sigra fell 55.4% to 23,000 units. Honda's sales fell 46.6% to 73,000 units. However, its market share increased to 13.8%, maintaining third place. The LCGC-compatible Brio Satya fell 45.2% to 30,000 units, while the non-LCGC compatible Brio dropped 30.5% to 11,000 units. Suzuki's sales declined 34.1% to 66,000 units, but it rose to fourth place. Sales of the Carry pickup truck, Suzuki's core model, fell 27.7% to 38,000 units, becoming the best-selling model in the country. The XL7 launched in February 2020 was sold 9,827 units. Mitsubishi Motors decreased 51.3%, dropping to fifth place with 58,000 units. The Xpander, including the Xpander Cross launched in November 2019, fell some 50% to 26,000 units.

In 2021, the status of new coronavirus infection is expected to have a significant impact on the recovery of purchasing power. Indonesia's automobile industry association GAIKINDO announced in December 2020 that it expects to reach 750000 units.