Polytron FOX 350 has received the Good Design Award 2026 from Japan Institute of Design Promotion (JDP), marking the first time a Polytron electric motorcycle has earned this international design recognition from Japan (23/10).

The award recognises the motorcycle’s design, which was developed around the needs of Indonesian consumers, combining riding comfort, electric vehicle technology, and a battery rental scheme designed to make ownership more accessible.

Polytron FOX 350 Selected from 5,111 Global Design Entries

The FOX 350 advanced to the international competition after ranking among the top 10 products in Good Design Indonesia 2026. The national programme was organised by Indonesia’s Ministry of Trade in partnership with JDP.

Products participating in the national selection were assessed by Indonesian and international judges, including JDP representatives. Products receiving top recognition were nominated and supported in competing at the international level.

In Japan, the FOX 350 competed against 5,111 design entries from various countries. Following two rounds of judging by Japanese and international design experts, 1,484 entries were selected to receive the Good Design Award 2026.

The Good Design Award has operated for nearly 70 years. Its G Mark symbol is recognised internationally as a mark of products assessed for their usefulness, innovation, and contribution to users’ quality of life.

Rider Comfort and Smart Technology Shape the FOX 350 Design

Polytron developed the FOX 350 based on research into the daily riding habits of Indonesian consumers. Its design aims to help motorcycle users transition to electric mobility without requiring them to make major changes to their familiar riding habits.

Inspired by the concept of the “Modern Warrior,” the motorcycle features an ergonomic riding position intended to provide comfort during long journeys and in traffic congestion. Its Comfy Deck gives riders greater freedom to position their feet, while the seat, body, and frame are designed to support stability and manoeuvrability.

The FOX 350 also includes features intended to improve the riding experience. Cruise Control reduces the need for continuous throttle adjustment during longer journeys, while Hill Start Assist helps prevent the motorcycle from rolling backwards when stopped on an incline.

Reverse Mode allows the motorcycle to move backwards under its own power, helping riders leave narrow parking spaces. IoT connectivity links the motorcycle to the user's smartphone, allowing battery and vehicle location monitoring.

The Good Design Award jury also recognised the careful consideration given to the seat shape, foot positioning, and operating system. These elements were assessed alongside the motorcycle’s riding comfort, manoeuvrability, and use of electric vehicle technology.

Battery Rental Scheme Supports More Accessible Ownership

The FOX 350 offers two ownership options: outright purchase and battery rental. Polytron designed the battery rental scheme to address concerns about high initial costs and battery replacement coverage.

Under this arrangement, the initial purchase cost is lower, while battery maintenance and replacement are covered throughout the rental period. The award jury recognised this ownership mechanism as part of the product’s approach to encouraging wider adoption of electric motorcycles.

Ilman Fachrian Fadly, Head of Group Product EV-2W at Polytron, said the award was the company’s first international design recognition for an electric motorcycle. He also expressed pride that the recognition was given to a product developed specifically for Indonesian consumers.

“We studied how Indonesians ride every day, from the need for a comfortable seating position in traffic jams and the ability to tackle hills to concerns about battery costs. The Polytron FOX 350 is our answer to all of these needs. Recognition from a country that is one of the world's leading benchmarks in automotive design proves that designs rooted in local needs can achieve world-class quality,” Ilman said.

Polytron FOX 350 Adds to Previous Industry Recognition

The Good Design Award 2026 adds to the FOX 350’s previous recognition as “Best Electric Motorcycle 2026” at the Uzone Choice Awards.

Polytron said it remained committed to developing designs based on the practical needs of Indonesian consumers and supporting the transition towards practical, economical, and environmentally friendly mobility.

PHOTO: POLYTRON

This article was created with AI assistance.

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