EV retrofits to help cut fuel imports, PM informed

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was informed on Wednesday that planning is under way to ensure that 30 per cent of vehicles in the country are converted to electric within the next five years, a move expected to save approximately USD 4.5 billion in fuel imports.

During a briefing at a review meeting on the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs), chaired by the prime minister, officials said government employees up to Grade 16 would be provided electric motorcycles on easy instalments.

The PM directed that transparency in subsidies for electric motorcycles for low-income groups under the National EV Policy be ensured and that implementation of the scheme be expedited.

READ ALSO: Pakistan launches National Electric Vehicle Policy 2025-30

He emphasised that ongoing measures aimed at accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles in the country should be further stepped up.

Referring to the prevailing regional situation and future requirements, the PM observed that promotion of EVs would not only help reduce the burden of fuel imports but was also vital for environmental protection and energy security.

Officials also gave a detailed briefing on efforts to promote EVs across the country.

They said 72 manufacturing certificates had so far been issued for electric motorcycles and rickshaws, and four for electric cars.

A total of 123 applications have been received for the establishment of EV charging stations, the meeting was told.

The meeting was attended by federal ministers Musadik Malik, Ahsan Iqbal, Muhammad Aurangzeb, Awais Leghari, Atta Tarar, and Ahad Cheema, among others, as well as senior officials.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026