Common EV Myths Many Indonesians Still Believe
Whenever someone starts considering an electric vehicle, they are likely to hear a familiar list of concerns from friends, family, or colleagues.
"The battery won't last long."
"It's dangerous to drive in heavy rain."
"Charging is inconvenient."
"If something breaks, finding a workshop will be difficult."
These concerns rarely come from bad intentions. Most stem from understandable uncertainty, as electric vehicles are still relatively new in Indonesia and public information is not always up to date.
The challenge arises when these misconceptions are accepted as facts and end up delaying decisions that may already make sense for many drivers.
As a brand committed to Indonesia for the long term, VinFast believes it is important to address these myths one by one.
Myth #1: "The Battery Will Degrade Quickly"
This is perhaps the most common concern and often comes from comparing EV batteries to smartphone batteries.
While both are batteries, the technology, capacity, and management systems are fundamentally different. Electric vehicle batteries are designed with sophisticated thermal management systems, overcharge protection, and continuous cell-balancing mechanisms that help maintain optimal battery health.
VinFast provides battery warranties across its vehicle lineup not simply as a marketing promise, but as a reflection of confidence in products that undergo rigorous testing before reaching customers.
Battery capacity degradation does occur over time, but it happens gradually and predictably, far from the notion of a battery suddenly failing without warning.
Myth #2: "Heavy Rain or Flooding Will Cause an Electrical Short Circuit"
This is one of the most persistent myths in Indonesia and also one of the furthest from reality.
The electrical systems in modern electric vehicles, including the entire VinFast lineup, are designed to meet strict international water-resistance standards. Battery systems, electric motors, and key electrical components undergo extensive testing that includes exposure to rain, water splashes, and water immersion under specified conditions.
VinFast vehicles are designed to operate safely in heavy rain, a common reality for drivers in many Indonesian cities.
Of course, driving through severe flooding beyond recommended limits is never advisable, just as conventional gasoline-powered vehicles can suffer water damage when forced through deep floodwaters.
Myth #3: "Charging Takes Too Long and Isn't Practical"
Many people imagine EV charging as stopping somewhere, plugging in a cable, and waiting for hours before continuing their journey.
In reality, this is not how most EV owners use their vehicles.
Most EV owners charge at home overnight while they sleep. By morning, their vehicle is ready to go with minimal disruption to their daily routine.
VinFast supports this convenience through home charging solutions compatible with residential electrical installations, whether through standard charging or dedicated wall chargers for faster charging speeds.
For longer journeys, VinFast works with V-Green and Indonesia's growing public charging network, including charging stations located at toll road rest areas, shopping centers, and office districts in major cities.
For most daily urban driving needs, home charging is already more than sufficient. Public charging stations serve as additional support rather than a necessity for everyday use.
Myth #4: "Finding a Service Center Will Be Difficult"
This is perhaps one of the most important misconceptions to address and one that has changed significantly in recent years.
While this concern may have had some validity during the early days of EV adoption in Indonesia, today's situation looks very different.
A Growing VinFast Service Network
VinFast continues to expand its network of showrooms and authorized service centers across major Indonesian cities.
Each service center is staffed by certified technicians trained according to VinFast's global standards and supported by consistent operational procedures and quality-control systems.
This commitment ensures customers have access to reliable, responsive, and high-quality aftersales support.
Third-Party Workshop Ecosystem
VinFast's support network extends beyond its authorized service centers.
As part of its long-term aftersales strategy, VinFast is developing a network of certified third-party workshops that receive direct training and certification from VinFast to service VinFast electric vehicles according to company standards.
What does this mean for vehicle owners?
Broader Coverage
Third-party workshops expand service accessibility beyond the reach of authorized service centers, including medium-sized cities and regions where VinFast showrooms may not yet be present.
Consistent Service Standards
Although independently operated, technicians within the network receive VinFast-developed training and certification, follow the same procedures, and adhere to comparable quality-control standards.
Reliable Parts Availability
VinFast is building a parts distribution network designed to ensure commonly required components are available efficiently across relevant service locations, reducing concerns about extended waiting times.
Long-Term Commitment
The third-party workshop program is not a temporary initiative. It forms part of VinFast's broader commitment to developing sustainable EV service infrastructure in Indonesia as vehicle adoption continues to grow.
Why It Matters
Trust is not built only in the showroom during a purchase.
It is built during ownership, when maintenance is due, when unexpected issues arise, and when support is needed.
VinFast recognizes that for a relatively new EV brand in Indonesia, aftersales confidence is just as important as product quality. The third-party workshop ecosystem is a tangible reflection of that commitment.
Myth #5: "Electric Vehicles Have Less Power Than Gasoline Cars"
The reality is often the opposite.
This is one of the biggest surprises for many first-time EV drivers.
Electric motors deliver maximum torque almost instantly. There is no waiting for engine revs to build, no gear-shift delays, and no warm-up period before performance feels responsive.
Acceleration feels immediate, smooth, and linear in a way that differs from conventional internal combustion vehicles.
This characteristic is not limited to premium EVs. It is an inherent advantage of electric motor technology, which is why the entire VinFast lineup, from compact vehicles to SUVs, delivers a responsive driving experience.
Myth #6: "Electric Vehicles Are Only for Premium Buyers"
Several years ago, this perception was not entirely inaccurate. Early EV offerings in Indonesia were largely concentrated in the premium segment.
VinFast approaches the market differently.
Its Indonesian lineup spans multiple segments, from affordable urban mobility solutions to larger SUVs and MPVs designed for families.
This philosophy aligns with VinFast's broader global mission: making electric mobility accessible to more people rather than positioning it solely as a luxury product.
Combined with financing options available through leasing and banking partners, EV ownership is becoming significantly more accessible than many consumers realize.
Myth #7: "It's Better to Wait Until the Infrastructure Is Fully Ready"
This may be the most subtle myth and perhaps the most common reason people postpone their decision.
The reality is that Indonesia's charging infrastructure is already functional for the needs of many urban drivers today.
Public charging networks continue to expand across major cities and key toll-road corridors. VinFast is also contributing to this growth through partnerships with V-Green and other infrastructure operators.
Waiting for perfect conditions is a standard we rarely apply to other major decisions.
A more practical question is this:
Is today's charging infrastructure sufficient for your driving needs?
For many urban drivers in Indonesia, the answer is already yes.
Looking Beyond the Myths
Many of these misconceptions did not emerge without reason. Some were rooted in genuine concerns during the early stages of EV adoption.
However, the technology has evolved significantly. Charging infrastructure has expanded. Service networks have grown. The conversation should evolve as well.
VinFast believes the best way to move beyond assumptions is through firsthand experience.
We invite you to schedule a free test drive at your nearest VinFast showroom, not to be convinced, but to discover the reality for yourself.
Because some things are best understood from behind the wheel.
Book your VinFast test drive today and experience why more Indonesians are making the switch to electric mobility. ⚡
