Electric Vehicles in Pakistan: A Market in Transition
Pakistan is witnessing a slow but steady shift towards electric mobility. Currently, the majority of EVs in the country are luxury imports from China, with brands like BYDand MG Motors Pakistan catering to the high-income segment. These vehicles, priced well above the reach of the average consumer, serve more as status symbols than practical transportation options. Despite the enthusiasm for EV technology, the market remains in its infancy, with only a handful of electric cars visible on Pakistani roads. Affordability and infrastructure challenges continue to be major hurdles.

Government Ambitions and Challenges in EV Adoption
Recognizing the urgency of addressing air pollution and reducing fossil fuel dependency, Pakistan’s government has set ambitious targets for EV adoption. By 2030, policymakers aim for 30% of new vehicle sales to be electric, rising to 90% by 2040. However, a key challenge lies in the fact that fewer than one in forty Pakistanis owns a car, with motorcycles and scooters being the dominant mode of transport. This reality has led to growing interest in electrifying two-wheelers, especially given the rising cost of fuel imports. While some progress has been made—such as the introduction of locally manufactured electric rickshaws—the adoption rate remains low, with only 1% of new vehicle registrations being electric.

The Road Ahead for Electromobility in Pakistan
The future of EVs in Pakistan depends on infrastructure improvements and financial incentives. The country’s reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation means that electrification must go hand-in-hand with renewable energy expansion, particularly solar power. Investments in charging stations and local manufacturing will be crucial in making EVs more accessible. With new policies encouraging carbon credit trading, international funding may play a role in accelerating Pakistan’s transition to sustainable mobility. The road is long, but early developments suggest that Pakistan is positioning itself for a greener future.

 

This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.