In a major push to expand electric vehicle (EV) production locally, the Pakistani government has granted licenses to 57 new EV manufacturers, Radio Pakistan reported on Tuesday. This includes 55 manufacturers focused on two- and three-wheelers, as well as two for four-wheeler assembly.
As part of the government’s efforts to promote electric mobility, plans are underway to establish EV charging stations across the country, including fast-charging and battery-swapping stations. Additionally, under the new EV policy, incentives like free registration, exemption from annual token fees, and toll tax exemptions are being offered to encourage adoption.
The government also intends to create at least one EV zone in each province, including Islamabad, to further drive local EV production and infrastructure.
With limited foreign exchange reserves and mounting environmental challenges, the government is actively promoting renewable energy and green infrastructure. Recently, the Senate Standing Committee on Climate Change called for stronger initiatives in the EV sector, with Senator Sherry Rehman highlighting the country’s slow progress in EV production, having only produced 60,000 EVs against a target of 600,000.
To further support the EV ecosystem, the government has reduced electricity tariffs for EV charging stations by 45%, dropping the rate from Rs71.10 to Rs39.40 per unit. This move is expected to make it easier for businesses to set up charging stations, even in smaller localities, with approval granted quickly through an online portal.
The Federal Minister for Energy, Awais Ahmad Leghari, emphasized that the reduction in tariffs would encourage the growth of charging infrastructure and boost EV adoption across Pakistan. He also called on international financial institutions to support green financing for the country’s renewable energy projects.