Mitsubishi Fuso's medium-class truck unit, Fighter. (Image via: Kompas Otomotif)

Mitsubishi Fuso talks about R&D investment in Indonesia

Brand agent of Mitsubishi Fuso, Krama Yudha Tiga Berlian Motors (KTB), confirmed the rumor that the Japanese trucks and buses manufacturer is currently reviewing its plan to invest more in Indonesia, in the form of facilities for R&D (Research & Development).

Interviewed in Gaikindo Indonesia Internasional Auto Show (GIIAS) 2019 on Monday (22/7), the Director of Sales & Marketing at KTB, Duljatmono, revealed further about the plan which has entered the “joint discussion” and “development studies” stage which involved Mitsubishi Fuso’s principals in Japan.

Currently, Indonesia has sold certain types of Fuso’s trucks such as Colt Diesel, Fuso, New Fuso, Fighter, and Tractor Head. Nonetheless, the development of the units is still done in the “Land of the Rising Sun” even though the assembly process is done in Indonesia.

In Indonesia, only 2 Japanese automotive manufacturers, Isuzu and Daihatsu, which had established their R&D facilities for new vehicles. Previously, Wuling was also rumored to build an R&D facility in Indonesia; but, the plan is still abstract.

Mitsubishi Fuso entered Indonesia since 1970 and building an R&D facility in Indonesia is included in its long-term plan. However, Duljatmono could not mention any date or time when the R&D facilities would be built in Indonesia.

To establish the R&D facility, the Japanese principals are also testing the Indonesian market in the future. If the Indonesian market shows positive behaviors toward Mitsubishi Fuso, it is plausible that the R&D facility will be built sooner than expected.

Source: https://www.cnnindonesia.com/teknologi/20190722223950-384-414539/mitsubishi-fuso-bicara-investasi-rnd-di-indonesia