Great Wall Motor or GWM is a Chinese automotive manufacturer that is currently pioneering in the national market through its two brands, Tank and Haval.
Even though GWM actually has several other brands, it has not been confirmed when they will officially start selling them, including Ora, which will be a special electric car brand.
However, from the Tank and Haval brands, both will only market Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) in Indonesia.
This strategy is different from other manufacturers who offer various types of car models to attract all segments.
So why is this strategy being implemented by GWM?
GWM is an expert in developing SUVs in its home country. According to Hari Arifianto, Director of Marketing at PT Inchcape Indomobil Energi Baru (GWM Indonesia), the first thing to know is that GWM excels in developing SUVs.
“We want when entering a segment in a country, at least can be in the top 3,” said Hari during the media event of the Test Drive Haval H6 HEV and Tank 500 HEV in Bandung, West Java, on Tuesday (8/7/2024) evening.
Furthermore, Hari explained that GWM with the Tank and Haval brands want to focus first on seriously developing the SUV market, in order to build a good relationship between the manufacturer and consumers in Indonesia.
“That’s why we not only sell, but also accompanied by manufacturing facilities or assembly. The main thing is to be present for good, providing the best products,” he explained.
Hari mentioned that based on the trends in the automotive market in Indonesia and globally, SUVs are becoming increasingly popular. He also stated that in Indonesia, SUVs are very suitable for use as they can handle various road contours.
As SUVs are increasingly appearing on Indonesian roads and are well-liked by consumers, even though their sales have not surpassed or matched the Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) segment, the progress of SUVs is becoming more positive.
For Hari, the presence of SUVs today is different from several years ago in terms of comfort, safety, and security. He emphasized that GWM must prioritize safety and security factors that cannot be compromised with consumers, resulting in their products receiving a five-star rating in various tests.
Hari also mentioned that if GWM introduces an entry-level SUV, then the plan will be adjusted as best as possible to align with GWM’s Headquarter in China and Indonesia.