Jakarta, INTI - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is developing artificial graphite derived from coal waste for use as a battery raw material. This material development is part of BRIN's efforts to strengthen the national electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem.
Head of BRIN, Arif Satria, stated that the development of artificial graphite is being conducted alongside research into 5V-generation Li-ion batteries.
"In the upstream sector for future materials, BRIN is developing 5V-generation Li-ion batteries and producing artificial graphite from coal waste," said Arif on Sunday, August 16, 2026.
According to Arif, the artificial graphite currently being developed by BRIN boasts a structural compatibility rate of up to 96.8%. The material is expected to support the development of a domestic supply chain for EV battery raw materials.
EV Prototype Developed by BRIN
In addition to developing battery materials, BRIN has produced several EV prototypes. These include the MEVI DELL-E and the E-TRIGO, a three-wheeled EV designed for commercial use and accessible to people with disabilities.
BRIN is also continuing to refine vehicle conversion technologies to support energy efficiency. Arif explained that a hybrid conversion system has the potential to reduce fuel consumption by 20-40%.
"BRIN is also refining a hybrid conversion system (combining a gasoline engine, an electric motor, and a controller) that offers potential fuel savings of 20-40%, as well as electric motor conversions that utilize existing frames at a much more affordable cost," said Arif.
Aligns with Government’s Targets
The development of these technologies aligns with government policies aimed at accelerating the electrification of national transportation. Previously, President Prabowo Subianto announced plans to provide incentives for the domestic production of one million electric motorcycles by Indonesian companies.
The policy aims to accelerate the adoption of EVs, reduce reliance on imported fuel, lower vehicle prices to make them more affordable, and strengthen the national electric motorcycle industry, including the supply chains for batteries, components, software, and after-sales services.
Conclusion
BRIN is developing artificial graphite from coal waste as a battery raw material to strengthen the national electric vehicle ecosystem. BRIN Head Arif Satria stated that this development is being carried out alongside work on 5V-generation Li-ion batteries, with the artificial graphite achieving a structural compatibility rate of 96.8%. This aligns with the government's plan to strengthen the national EV ecosystem.
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