Ahsan Iqbal Urges Fast-Track Shift to Electric Vehicles

Planning and Development Minister Ahsan Iqbal has called for an accelerated transition to electric vehicles (EVs), saying Pakistan must embrace modern transport technologies to reduce fuel imports, strengthen energy security and support export-led economic growth.

 

Speaking at the inauguration of the EVS World and Electricity Pakistan Exhibition in Karachi, Iqbal said nearly 80% of the country's petrol consumption is attributed to the transport sector, making the rapid adoption of EVs a national priority.

 

He said the global shift towards electric mobility is already underway and stressed that Pakistan must quickly transition two-, three- and four-wheelers to electric power in a phased manner.

 

To encourage EV adoption, the minister said the government has introduced incentives, including a subsidy of up to Rs80,000 for electric motorcycles, while the latest federal budget reduced duties on EVs to make them more affordable.

 

Iqbal noted that Pakistan has added a 6,000–8,000MW solar energy buffer, creating an opportunity to replace imported oil with domestically generated electricity for transportation.

 

He also reiterated that Pakistan's long-term economic independence depends on moving from an import-driven economy to an export-led one, setting a target of over $100 billion in exports by 2035. He urged the private sector to expand exports and said policy continuity and government support would remain key priorities.

 

The minister added that Pakistan's EV industry has the potential to compete globally but said its current export volume must increase substantially to realise that potential.