Wuling Indonesia Achieves Milestone with Magic Battery Production
On December 31, 2024, Wuling Indonesia marked a significant achievement as its first power battery, Magic Battery (known as Shenlian in Chinese), rolled off the production line. This milestone made Wuling the first Chinese automobile brand to establish power battery production in Indonesia. The entire project, from initiation to production, was completed in a swift 4.5 months.
SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW) introduced the Magic Battery brand in Jakarta, Indonesia on September 20, 2024, with the promise of localized production within the same year. The investment into the production line totaled 40 million yuan (approximately 5.48 million USD).
The Magic Battery was initially unveiled at Wuling Technology Evolution Day in September 2023. This lithium iron phosphate type battery boasts impressive specifications, including a peak power exceeding 300 kW, an energy density of over 165 Wh/kg, a charge and discharge efficiency of more than 96%, and a lifespan of more than 6,500 cycles.
Wuling has implemented innovative design features in the Magic Battery cells to enhance safety. The cells now feature L-shaped tabs instead of traditional U-shaped tabs to reduce the risk of internal short circuits. Additionally, a ceramic coating has been applied to prevent thermal runaway, and an intelligent battery management system has been integrated for optimal performance.
In 2024, Wuling Indonesia saw a 27% year-on-year increase in new energy vehicle (NEV) sales, totaling 13,492 units. Since the launch of its first NEV, the Wuling Air EV, in Indonesia in 2022, Wuling has sold a cumulative total of 28,768 NEVs, capturing a market share of over 40%. SGMW has introduced nine models in Indonesia since 2017, and in 2024, the company sold 24,244 vehicles, slightly lower than the previous year.
Looking ahead, SGMW plans to leverage Indonesia as a production base for right-hand drive vehicles in Southeast Asia. The company remains committed to expanding its presence in the region and driving innovation in the automotive industry.
Sources: SGMW, Shautonews, Yiche, EET China
