Dewan Farooque Motors Limited (DFML) is in advanced talks with the Sindh government to introduce 500 electric taxis in the province at an estimated cost of Rs 2.5 billion.
The move is part of a broader strategy to tackle transportation challenges and promote eco-friendly mobility solutions in the region.
A statement issued by the Sindh government on Monday revealed that Special Assistant to Chief Minister of Sindh for Investment and Public Private Partnership, Syed Qasim Naveed Qamar, recently met with Dewan Muhammad Yousuf Farooqui, the head of Dewan Group of Industries, at the investment department’s office. During the meeting, Farooqui outlined DFML’s commitment to launching 500 electric taxis in Sindh, a project aimed at revolutionizing the public transport sector while aligning with the province’s green energy initiatives.
The special assistant welcomed the proposal, highlighting its potential to alleviate the public transport crisis while complementing Sindh’s environmental sustainability goals. He further emphasized that the local manufacturing of electric vehicles under DFML would not only boost technological advancements but also create employment opportunities in the province.
DFML has been making strides in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, with the company assembling over 100 units of the Chinese EV ‘Honri-VE’ within the first three months of production at its assembly plant. In addition to its discussions with the Sindh government, DFML is also negotiating with Punjab authorities to introduce the Honri-VE as an e-taxi in both provinces.
However, the final framework for the project is still under discussion. To ensure the success of the electric taxi scheme, the Sindh government may need to involve banks in providing financing options for taxi buyers, making the transition to electric taxis more viable for the public.
An industry official, who requested anonymity due to the ongoing negotiations, revealed that DFML is awaiting an official confirmation and a 100% advance payment from the Sindh government before proceeding with the delivery of the e-taxis. Once the order is finalized, the company is expected to roll out the vehicles without delay.
DFML has introduced two variants of the Honri-VE: the Honri-VE 0.2 and Honri-VE 0.3, capable of covering 200 km and 300 km per full charge, respectively. These models are priced at Rs 3.99 million and Rs 4.99 million, offering a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to conventional taxis. With the company’s growing footprint in Pakistan’s EV market, DFML is positioning itself as a key player in the country’s transition toward cleaner and more efficient transportation.