Electrifying transport: Pakistan unveils first electric rickshaw

• There were four main benefits of Electric Vehicle policy as EVs would run on 70pc less costs compared to its fuel-based counterpart, says PM advisor.
• The electric rickshaw could prove a much needed environment friendly mode of transport.

As global transport system move towards eco-friendly electrically charged vehicles, Pakistan too has taken a significant step as the country introduced its first electric rickshaw.

Developed by local three-wheeler assembler Sazgar Engineering Works, the electric rickshaw could prove a much needed environment friendly mode of transport.

“Introduction of electric vehicles in Pakistan following the EV policy, which was framed after consultation with all relevant stakeholders from government and non-governmental sectors, are going to be a big step for the people to switch from fuelling at the pump to fuelling at an outlet," said Prime Minister's Advisor on Climate Change, Malik Amin Aslam.

Aslam said there were four main benefits of the Electric Vehicle (EV) policy as EVs would run on 70 percent less costs compared to its fuel-based counterpart.

As per specifications, the battery of Sazgar is undeniably the most vital organ of the three-wheeler designated as EcoRik Li-Ion Battery, with powering 48V, 125Ah, and 6kwh.  The battery will be charged 5 hours, and can drive for 125 Km.

Being an electric rickshaw, means that the three-wheeler would not produce any emissions informed Sazgar Engineering Director Mian Ammar. Secondly, there is no annual maintenance cost and fuel cost like in other rickshaws.

“Unlike other three-wheelers there are no moving parts in this rickshaw, the only moving part are the wheels as it runs on a battery. Therefore there would be a lot of savings on maintenance and fuel cost,” he added.