PM directs faster push for electric vehicles across Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday instructed authorities to speed up efforts aimed at promoting electric vehicles in Pakistan, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

He gave the direction while presiding over a review meeting on the promotion of electric vehicles in the country. During the meeting, the prime minister said the shift towards EVs had become increasingly important in light of current regional circumstances and future needs.

"In view of the prevailing regional situation and the requirements of the future, the promotion of EVs will not only reduce the fuel import bill, but it is also extremely important for protecting the environment and energy security," he said.

The PMO said the prime minister also ordered that transparency be ensured in the subsidy being provided for electric motorcycles for low-income people under the National Electric Vehicle Policy.

Briefing on manufacturing and charging infrastructure

According to the statement, the meeting was informed about steps already under way to expand the use of electric vehicles nationwide. Participants were told that 72 certificates had been issued for the manufacturing of electric motorcycles and rickshaws, while four certificates had been granted for the manufacturing of electric vehicles.

The meeting was further informed that 123 applications had so far been received for the establishment of EV charging stations.

Officials also briefed the meeting on planning to move 30 per cent of vehicles across the country to electricity. The PMO statement said this transition would save fuel worth about $4.5 billion.

Installment plan for government employees

The meeting was also told that electric motorbikes would be provided to government employees in Grade 16 on easy installments, the statement added.

The government had earlier launched the Pakistan Accelerated Vehicle Electrification (PAVE) scheme in January to speed up the country’s move towards clean, affordable and sustainable transport, cut dependence on fossil fuels and support the domestic electric vehicle manufacturing sector.

The latest review meeting focused on the pace of implementation and the measures being taken to support wider adoption of electric mobility in Pakistan.