PAPS 2024: Reviving Pakistan's Auto Industry with Electric Innovations and New Launches

The 19th edition of the Pakistan Auto & Parts Show (PAPS-24) is underway from October 25 to 27, 2024, at the Expo Centre in Lahore. This event has become a pivotal platform for automotive companies to showcase and launch new vehicles in Pakistan.

After a few years of subdued activity, this year’s event has generated significant buzz with major car manufacturers unveiling a range of exciting new vehicles, particularly in the hybrid & electric vehicle segment.

MG HS PHEV

MG Pakistan has unveiled the locally assembled MG HS PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) at PAPS 2024. It features a hybrid powertrain combining a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor. This setup allows the vehicle to deliver robust performance and enhanced fuel efficiency. The PHEV system enables the HS to run on electric power alone for shorter distances, reducing fuel consumption and emissions, while the petrol engine provides the necessary range for longer trips.

While the exact pricing has yet to be announced, MG is known for its competitive pricing strategy. The HS PHEV is expected to be available for purchase in the coming months, and bookings are likely to open soon.

MG Cyberster EV

MG also debuted the Cyberster all-electric roadster at the PAPS 2024, captivating enthusiasts with its blend of cutting-edge technology and homage to MG’s sports car heritage. The specific pricing and availability for the Pakistani market are anticipated to be announced soon. The MG Cyberster boasts a sleek, aerodynamic design, featuring an electrically retractable roof and scissor doors. The top-tier model comes with dual electric motors delivering up to 496 horsepower, enabling acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 3.2 seconds. Equipped with a 77 kWh battery, the Cyberster offers a driving range of up to 444 kilometers on a single charge, suitable for both urban commuting and leisure drives.

Kia EV5

Kia has tapped the pure-electric segment with the introduction of the Kia EV5 at the PAPS 2024. The EV5 is available in two distinct variants to cater to different consumer preferences. The Air (Standard Range 2WD) variant features a 58 kWh battery and a rear-wheel drive system, delivering around 168 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque, with an estimated range of approximately 400 km on a single charge. The Earth (Long Range AWD) variant is equipped with a larger 76 kWh battery and all-wheel drive, providing a more powerful performance with 215 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. This variant offers an impressive range of up to 500 km per charge.

Both variants support fast charging, allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in about 18 minutes under optimal conditions. The EV5 Air is priced at Rs 18,500,000 while the EV5 Earth is priced at Rs 23,500,000.

BYD Seal and ATTO 3 EVs

BYD showcased its commitment to electric mobility with the introduction of two exciting models: the BYD Seal and the ATTO 3. The BYD Seal is a stylish electric sedan designed to offer both performance and comfort. It features a sleek, aerodynamic design and features ultra-fast charging capabilities. The Seal is powered by a dual-motor setup, delivering impressive acceleration and a range of around 700 km on a single charge, making it an attractive option for both urban and long-distance driving.

On the other hand, the ATTO 3 is an all-electric compact SUV that caters to a more versatile lifestyle. It boasts a spacious interior with modern technology, including a large touchscreen infotainment system. The ATTO 3 is equipped with a 60.48 kWh battery, providing an estimated range of approximately 480 km. Its design prioritizes comfort and practicality, making it ideal for families and urban commuters alike.

BYD Seal is offered in two variants— Dynamic priced at Rs 14,790,000 and Premium priced at Rs 16,990,000. On the other hand, the ATTO 3 is available for Rs 8,990,000.

Additionally, BYD displayed the Shark pickup at the event, although it was only for show at this time. However, there’s a possibility that the company may introduce it in the near future.

Changan Lumin EV

Changan unveiled the Lumin EV, a compact electric vehicle at PAPS 2024. The cute little EV is powered by a 30.7 kWh battery, delivering a range of approximately 300 km on a single charge. The Lumin EV features a simple yet stylish interior equipped with the latest technology, including a digital instrument cluster and a touchscreen infotainment system, enhancing the driving experience.

The company displayed a CBU unit and currently has no immediate plans for the launch, as it intends to assess the market and price range before introducing locally assembled units of the EV.

Hyundai Elantra Hybrid

Hyundai debuted the 7th-gen Elantra Hybrid at PAPS 2024. The Hyundai Elantra Hybrid features a Smartstream 1.6L GDI Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder engine paired with a permanent magnet synchronous motor, delivering a peak power of 33 kW (43 hp) and a torque of 170 Nm. Together, this system produces a combined output of 139 hp and 264 Nm of torque. The newly launched vehicle is equipped with a lithium-ion polymer battery that has a capacity of 1.32 kWh and a power output of 42 kW. The price of the new Elantra Hybrid is Rs 9,699,999. Meanwhile, bookings for the vehicle are now open, requiring a partial payment of Rs 2,000,000.

These launches underscore the growing focus on electric mobility and the automotive industry’s commitment to innovation in Pakistan. PAPS-24 serves as a testament to the country’s evolving automotive landscape, providing a platform for both local and international manufacturers to introduce cutting-edge vehicles and technologies.

In addition to a flurry of electric 2-wheelers, other hybrid & electric vehicles that were on display during the event include the recently launched Deepal L07 & S07, Haval H6 & Jolion hybrids, GWM Ora 03 & Ora 07, Tank 500, Honri Ve, Toyota Corolla Cross, and the Hyundai Ioniq 6 & Ioniq 6 EVs. A good number of conventional models from major automakers were also present at the show.