Pakistan takes a step towards a greener future as the Engineering Development Board (EDB) issues licenses to 34 manufacturers of electric vehicles. This move, aligned with the Electric Vehicles Policy for 2020-2025, signals a decisive shift from conventional fuel-powered cars to electric ones.
In a recent webinar hosted by the Sustainable Development Policy Institute, Asim Ayaz, a senior EDB official, highlighted the challenges facing customers in financing electric vehicles. Ayaz emphasized that the higher costs of electric vehicles, primarily due to battery expenses, pose a significant hurdle for many potential buyers. To address this issue, the ministry has proposed the installation of electric vehicle charging stations at all petrol stations across Pakistan.
Ahmed Sajeel, representing Deewan Motors BMW, shared insights into the evolving landscape of electric vehicles in Pakistan. He noted the initial resistance from Japanese car manufacturers but acknowledged that the global shift towards electric vehicles has made such resistance unsustainable. Sajeel stressed the critical role of infrastructure development alongside electric vehicle adoption, proposing that local manufacturing, leveraging Pakistan’s abundant raw materials such as silica, is the key to driving this transition forward.
This transition towards electric vehicles is not only a step towards a cleaner environment but also a move to address the escalating fuel prices in Pakistan. Moreover, it aligns with global efforts to curb carbon emissions. However, ensuring the affordability of electric vehicles and establishing a robust charging infrastructure are crucial elements for a successful transition to electric mobility in the country.
The EDB’s decision to issue licenses to electric vehicle manufacturers signals a promising future for sustainable transportation in Pakistan, with stakeholders emphasizing the need for continued support, infrastructure development, and innovation in the electric vehicle sector.
