Given the recent surge in fuel prices in Pakistan, the newly established government is pushing for the adoption of electric two and three-wheelers. The Engineering Development Board (EDB) has recently granted licenses to 34 manufacturers of such vehicles under the Electric Vehicles Policy for 2020-2025, signaling a move towards transitioning from traditional fuel-powered vehicles to electric ones.
During a webinar at the Sustainable Development Policy Institute, Asim Ayaz, a senior EDB official, mentioned the financing challenge for customers, as electric vehicles are typically more expensive due to battery costs. To address this issue, the ministry proposed the installation of EV charging stations at every petrol station.
Ahmed Sajeel from Deewan Motors BMW noted that while Japanese car manufacturers initially resisted electric vehicles, the global shift towards EVs has made their resistance unsustainable. He stressed the importance of infrastructure along with EVs, suggesting that local manufacturing utilizing Pakistan’s ample raw materials like silica is the way forward.
In summary, the shift towards electric vehicles is a significant move towards combating rising fuel prices and reducing carbon emissions. However, ensuring affordability and establishing a robust charging infrastructure are crucial aspects of this transition.
Punjab Bike Scheme
Recently, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz introduced a scheme initiative where the provincial administration plans to provide over 20,000 electric and petrol motorbikes to citizens, particularly students, through interest-free loans.
The government aims to distribute a total of 20,000 bikes, with 1,000 being electric bikes and 19,000 petrol bikes. Students are exempt from paying interest on their monthly installments.
To facilitate students, the Punjab government partnered with the Bank of Punjab (BOP) for bike distribution. The monthly installment for electric bikes is set at Rs. 10,000, while for petrol bikes, it’s Rs. 5,000.
What are your thoughts on the initiative to switch bikes and rickshaws to electric? Share your opinions in the comments below.
