Veteran entrepreneur highlights the growing role of electric two-wheelers as Pakistan transitions toward sustainable transportation
Pakistan’s automotive industry has witnessed a significant transformation over the last four decades, moving from a market centered on conventional motorcycles to one increasingly embracing electric mobility.
The sector’s growth has been fueled by entrepreneurs who recognized emerging opportunities and adapted to changing consumer needs.
One such industry figure is Muhammad Sabir Shaikh, also known as Mr. EV, whose professional journey reflects the evolution of Pakistan’s two-wheeler and electric vehicle (EV) sectors.
With more than 40 years of experience in motorcycle sales, imports, exports, local assembly, and industry representation, he has played a notable role in shaping the country’s mobility landscape.
Shaikh began his business career in March 1984 at Karachi’s well-known Akbar Road motorcycle market, entering the industry during a period when Pakistan’s two-wheeler sector was still in its early stages.
Over time, his business activities expanded beyond trading to include initiatives that supported industrial development and mobility solutions.
A major milestone came in January 1987 with the establishment of Sitara Auto Impex. Through the company, he worked with internationally recognized motorcycle brands, including Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, and Vespa, strengthening his position within the automotive market.
His entrepreneurial ambitions continued to grow, and in 1991 he launched Babar Autos, a Honda dealership in Nazimabad. The outlet was among the first in Pakistan to introduce Atlas Honda’s 3S model—Sales, Service, and Spare Parts—outside Karachi’s traditional Akbar Road motorcycle business district.
Shaikh’s ability to identify industry trends before they became mainstream has been a defining feature of his career. In 1999, when Chinese motorcycles had yet to gain widespread popularity in Pakistan, he initiated imports and pursued local assembly operations at SITE Superhighway under the Guangta and Sitara GT-70 brands. The move helped broaden access to affordable transportation options for consumers.
Beyond business, Shaikh has also contributed to industry development through advocacy and leadership. Since 2003, he has served for several years as Chairman of the Association of Pakistan Motorcycle Assemblers (APMA), where he worked to represent manufacturers and promote cooperation across the sector.
Today, he is among the strongest advocates of electric mobility in Pakistan. Having explored opportunities in the EV segment well before its recent growth, Shaikh has actively supported the development of electric two- and three-wheelers since 2017. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, he assisted numerous importers and assemblers entering the emerging market.
As Chief Coordinator of the Pakistan (China) Electric Two & Three-Wheelers Assemblers Association (PETWA), he continues to promote sustainable transportation. Shaikh believes electric scooters, EVs, and electric buses will play a central role in Pakistan’s future mobility ecosystem, a vision that is gaining traction as EV adoption accelerates across the country.
His four-decade journey underscores the importance of innovation, adaptability, and long-term vision in driving industry progress and supporting Pakistan’s transition toward cleaner transportation solutions.