Blits EV Set to Explore Indonesia Prior to Entering Dakar Rally

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Prior to entering the Blits electric vehicle (EV) into the Dakar Rally, the prototype must be rigorously tested in a joint effort event with state-run electricity company PLN entitled the PLN Blits Explore Indonesia.

Blits project director Sujono explained that the route that Explore Indonesia will drive through would act as a testing ground for the EV. “We also want to gift Indonesia at the 2019 Independence day with an electric vehicle that traveled 15,000 kilometers,” said Sujono on Monday.

The Blits is a product of an ambitious project that has gone through a hefty trial and error process, which is what drove its rescheduled launch. Initially, the car was to go through a track spreading across Sabang up to Merauke, the two outer regions in Indonesia, however, it was forced to be rescheduled to start at Budi Luhur University, Jakarta, to avoid unwanted technical issues.

“The alternative would be much easier if something happens to the car,” said Sujono.

However, the team maintained that the performance of the Blits EV has shown steady improvement day-by-day. Budi Luhur University and ITS as the main project handler have partnered with several state-run companies such as PLN, energy company Pertamina, the Research, Technology, and Higher Education Ministry, and tire manufacturer Goodyear Indonesia.

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