Pakistan aims for 30% electric vehicles in five years, targets $4.5B in fuel savings

Pakistan is planning to shift 30% of its vehicles to electric power within the next five years, a move officials say could save up to $4.5 billion in fuel costs, as the government accelerates its push to reduce dependence on imported fuel amid rising global energy prices.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a review meeting on the promotion of electric vehicles, directing relevant authorities to speed up ongoing initiatives.

He said EV adoption would not only reduce the fuel import burden but was also critical for environmental protection and energy security, particularly given the current regional situation.

The prime minister specifically directed that transparency be ensured in the disbursement of subsidies on electric motorcycles for low-income individuals under the National EV Policy, and called for faster implementation of the scheme.

Officials briefed the meeting on progress made so far.

A total of 72 manufacturing certificates have been issued for electric motorcycles and rickshaws, while four have been issued for electric vehicles. The government has also received 123 applications for the establishment of EV charging stations across the country.

As part of the initiative, government employees up to Grade 16 will be provided with electric motorcycles on easy installment plans.