iCar V23 launches in Indonesia with retro SUV styling and up to 430 km range

The electric SUV enters the Indonesian market with rear-wheel drive and intelligent wheel drive variants, combining retro-inspired design with modern EV technology.

Chery iCar V23 is displayed at the Beijing Auto Show in Beijing, China.
The Chery iCar V23 is displayed at the Beijing Auto Show in Beijing, China, on April 25, 2026. Photo by Qilai Shen/Bloomberg/Getty Images

iCar officially launched the iCar V23 in Indonesia, introducing a retro-inspired electric SUV with modern technology and dual drivetrain options for local consumers. The iCar V23 Indonesia debut marks the brand’s latest move into the growing national electric vehicle market, with prices starting from Rp389.9 million on-the-road Jakarta.

The iCar V23 comes in two drivetrain configurations consisting of rear wheel drive (RWD) and intelligent wheel drive (iWD). Both variants offer distinct performance characteristics while maintaining the rugged SUV design language that has become the model’s signature identity.

The vehicle adopts a boxy exterior design inspired by classic off-road SUVs while incorporating contemporary styling elements and electric vehicle technology. Its upright body shape, squared proportions, and commanding driving position reinforce the appearance of a conventional adventure-focused SUV.

For the powertrain, the RWD variant is equipped with a single electric motor capable of producing 100 kW or approximately 136 PS, along with 180 Nm of torque. The model uses a 60 kWh battery pack that allows the vehicle to travel up to 360 kilometers based on the NEDC testing standard.

Meanwhile, the higher-spec iWD version features a dual-motor setup producing a combined output of 155 kW or around 211 PS with peak torque reaching 292 Nm. This variant uses a larger 82 kWh battery pack and offers a claimed driving range of up to 430 kilometers under the NEDC cycle.

iCAR stated that fast charging capability enables the battery to recharge from 20 percent to 80 percent within approximately 36 minutes for the RWD version. The iWD variant requires around 42 minutes to achieve the same charging level.

Dimensionally, the iCar V23 measures 4,220 millimeters in length, 1,915 millimeters in width, and 1,845 millimeters in height, with a wheelbase spanning 2,735 millimeters.

The electric SUV also offers relatively high ground clearance figures for its segment. The RWD model features 205 mm of ground clearance, while the iWD variant increases slightly to 210 mm.

To strengthen its off-road-oriented credentials, the V23 comes with a 43-degree approach angle and a 41-degree departure angle. The vehicle is also claimed to be capable of crossing water up to 600 mm deep.

Inside the cabin, iCar maintains several physical buttons and switches instead of relying entirely on touchscreen controls. Physical controls remain available for side mirror adjustment, air-conditioning settings, and audio volume management to improve convenience while driving.

The SUV also includes multiple driving modes tailored for varying road conditions and driving preferences. Available modes include Eco, Comfort, Sport, Slippery, Rock, and Individual Mode.

The customizable Individual Mode allows drivers to adjust several vehicle parameters such as accelerator response, braking feel, regenerative braking intensity, and other driving characteristics.

Despite its extensive equipment, the entry-level version of the iCar V23 does not yet include advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features or a 540-degree camera system.

The introduction of the iCar V23 Indonesia lineup comes as competition in the domestic electric vehicle market continues to intensify. Manufacturers are increasingly targeting consumers looking for affordable EVs with SUV styling and practical driving range.

The retro-classic design approach taken by the V23 also differentiates the model from many modern electric crossovers that tend to prioritize futuristic styling themes. The combination of rugged proportions and electric mobility could appeal to buyers seeking a unique design identity without sacrificing modern functionality.

Although iCar has confirmed the starting price of Rp389.9 million OTR Jakarta, the company has not yet disclosed detailed pricing information for the higher variants.

The launch also reflects the broader expansion of electric vehicle offerings in Indonesia as automakers respond to government incentives, improving charging infrastructure, and growing public interest in battery-powered transportation.

Indonesia has become one of Southeast Asia’s key emerging EV markets, attracting both established automotive brands and new players aiming to strengthen their presence in the region. The arrival of models such as the iCar V23 further broadens choices for consumers in the compact electric SUV segment.

Industry observers believe electric SUVs with distinctive styling and practical specifications could gain traction among urban consumers looking for versatile daily transportation while maintaining lifestyle-oriented appeal.

With its combination of retro SUV aesthetics, dual-motor performance options, high ground clearance, and relatively competitive pricing, the iCar V23 enters the Indonesian market targeting buyers interested in both electric mobility and rugged vehicle character.

The company is expected to reveal more detailed variant information, including additional pricing and feature specifications, in the coming months as the model begins reaching consumers across Indonesia.

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