EV Revolution: Pakistanis Excited for Homegrown Model, Launching in December
Pakistan’s first domestically manufactured four-wheeled electric vehicle (EV) is scheduled for market launch in December, as revealed during a recent meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the promotion of electric vehicle usage.
According to a government statement, since 2022, 49 licenses have been granted for the local production of two and three-wheeled electric vehicles, with 25 factories already operational. The first license for the domestic production of four-wheeled electric vehicles was issued in September 2024, with the inaugural electric car set to be released in December this year.
The electric sector in Pakistan is growing, offering the potential to significantly reshape the country’s automotive industry. In a related development, Dewan Farooque Motors Limited (DFML) announced that it had begun electric vehicle production at its assembly plant after receiving approval from the Engineering Development Board (EDB). Additionally, last month, Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD entered the Pakistani market, positioning the country as one of its latest ventures in South Asia.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif instructed authorities to present a comprehensive financial model for electric vehicles. He emphasized that EVs would not only reduce the country’s reliance on imported petrol and diesel, thus saving foreign exchange but also contribute to environmental sustainability. The Prime Minister further directed that the electric vehicles’ Policy be finalized by November, with a focus on improving licensing regulations for EV manufacturing.
The meeting also highlighted the need for consultation with provincial governments, federal agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure a cohesive electric vehicle policy. Additionally, to promote electric vehicle usage, the government plans to distribute electric motorbikes to high-performing students in government schools, modeled after the government’s laptop distribution scheme.
The Prime Minister directed the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to develop a comprehensive plan for the electrification of public transport in Islamabad. Authorities also agreed to prioritize the establishment of electric vehicle’s charging stations along key highways, including the motorways, GT Road, N-65, and N-70.
It was earlier reported that the Ministry of Power had drafted standards for electric vehicle charging stations, with the government exploring options for providing these stations with affordable electricity.
