RI To Produce Electric Cars In 2013

Jakarta (Antara Bali) - Minister for state enterprises  Dahlan Iskan said Indonesia hopes to start mass production  of electric cars  in 2013.

However, certain  necessary regulations are needed before mass production begins, as electric cars use no oil fuel, and cylinder engine,  Dahlan said here on Monday.

Regulations are needed such as on motor vehicle license, tax  and certificate of ownership, he said after driving an electric car in a trial test from its workshop in Depok to the office of the research  and technology minister in Jakarta covering a distance of around 25 kilometers.

He said President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono strongly encourages production of electric cars and has told the industry, trade and research  and technology ministers to prepare the draft regulations.

"In three months the regulation  should be in force  that mass production could star immediately," he said.

He said four other prototypes of electric cars are now in the final phase of completion for the class of Suzuki Carrier, Toyota Avanza and Yaris.(DWA/T007)