Pakistan Electric Vehicles & Parts Manufacturers and Traders Association (PEVPMTA) hosted a press briefing in Karachi to reveal the potential of EV technologies and its usefulness to people of Pakistan. Advisor to Prime Minister on Climate Change Malik Amin Aslam was the Chief Guest who addressed the benefits of EV Policy to the media.
Related: PEVMA Established to Promote Induction of Electric Vehicles
Pakistan is one of the worst affected by climate change and Pakistan must respond to it to the best of its capacity and reduce carbon emission
Ministry of Climate Change took the lead in first drafting Pakistan’s Electric Vehicle Policy and then having it approved by the cabinet after few changes. The new EV players are waiting for government SROs to be issued so that the process of introducing EV could start in the country.
The media was told that it was high time that Pakistan inducts and enforces EV transportation in the country, as it was purchasing fuel of around $14 billion in year fiscal year 2019. PEVMA officials lauded the timely formulation and induction of EV Policy and congratulated the Ministry of Climate Change (MoCC) for completing the job in a short period of time. Malik Amin Aslam said:
“The common man would benefits from the advantages of EV Vehicles which would enhance the Socio Economic environment through substantial saving on purchase of fuel & maintenance alone. Furthermore we can have a healthy environment in view of zero tail emissions and zero noise pollution.”
According to PEVMA General Secretary Shaukat Qureshi:
“Though we were late in coming up with an EV Policy, however with the efforts and interest of Mr. Malik Amin Aslam Khan, it was possible to develop and finalize the EV Policy, in spite of tremendous pressure and negative propaganda, against EVs, through media and other forums, by the vested interest of competitive lobby. The bottom line is: EV Tsunami is coming, one may like it or not.”
PEVMA briefed the media that electric motorcycles and scooters, at a minimum average, can bring around a monthly saving of Rs. 4,000 per month for the average man. The small EVs (500cc to 1000 cc equivalent- representing the 75% needed segment) will bring around a saving of Rs. 30,000 per month at present cost of fuel and maintenance.
Related: Karachi-Based Manufacturers Develop Successful EV Conversion Kits
The coaster and city buses (with 300km operation daily) can bring about saving of Rs. 350,000 per month, on account of fuel and maintenance. The Inter-city Buses (with 300km operations daily) will bring a saving of Rs. 550,000 per month on account of fuel and maintenance alone. This could bring around instant change for poor persons. The bus and coaster fare would be less than 50% of what it is now and savings as reflected above.
Various EV components and conversion kits on display
Most interestingly, the media was informed that EVs in Pakistan are under test and trial since last 8 months, while the modification and upgrading had been done to make them conducive for the Pakistan markets and it conditions. Now fully loaded models compatible/affordable to Japanese imported and local cars in the small segment (650cc to 1000cc) are ready to be shipped, just waiting for any concession of duty structure.
Related: EV Policy will Have a Big Impact on Local Auto Industry
It was further notified that Total PARCO is on board for installing around 150 bus chargers on selective Petrol Pumps, to supplement EV charging, their team is now in China to finalize the arrangements. Total Parco believes in the future of EV, with its experience of installing thousands of chargers in France. The development of Lithium battery assembly plants is also part of the plan by manufacturers.
Related: Advantages of Electric Vehicles
PEVMA also aims to export electric vehicles and their components including batteries of other regional markets including Middle East, Central Asia, Afghanistan, Iran and Sri Lanka. Pakistan is centrally located which cover these countries within hours, through road & rail network. Especially with the development under CPEC, there is big opportunity for Pakistan. PEVMA says this aspect had been discussed with the Chinese and they are ready to cooperate.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
