Chinese EV and plug-in hybrid imports surge in the first half of 2026 as consumer demand, government policies, and affordable technology drive Pakistan’s transition to electric mobility.
Pakistan’s transition toward electric mobility is gaining remarkable momentum, with imports of Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) recording unprecedented growth during the first half of 2026.
Latest customs data highlights a sharp rise in demand as consumers increasingly shift toward cleaner and more fuel-efficient transportation options.
According to trade statistics released by the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC), Pakistan’s imports of Chinese plug-in hybrid vehicles witnessed more than a tenfold increase in value between January and June 2026.
The fastest-growing category was plug-in hybrid station wagons with 1.0-1.5 litre engines, which reached an import value of $191 million compared to $16.3 million during the corresponding period last year.
Import volumes also climbed significantly, crossing 12,500 units and reflecting an 857% increase.
The growth trend extended to plug-in hybrid saloon cars within the same engine category. Their import value jumped from $9.2 million to $90.3 million in the first six months of 2026, while the number of imported units increased nearly tenfold, demonstrating the growing popularity of Chinese hybrid vehicles in Pakistan.
Founder and Chief Executive of Dynamic Engineering & Automation (DEA) Group, Owais Mir, noted that plug-in hybrid four-wheel-drive crossovers, a segment that had virtually no presence in Pakistan a year ago, generated imports worth approximately $123 million during the first half of 2026.
He said every major new-energy vehicle category, including hybrid wagons, saloons, and 4WD crossovers, achieved triple- and quadruple-digit growth rates.
The electrification trend is also reshaping Pakistan’s two-wheeler market. Imports of Chinese electric motorcycles increased nearly five times in value, rising from $14.7 million to $69.9 million during the same period.
The rapid growth reflects increasing acceptance of electric bikes, particularly among urban commuters, where motorcycles remain the primary mode of transportation for millions of people.
Industry experts believe the surge is being driven by multiple factors, including improving affordability of Chinese electric and hybrid vehicles, rising fuel prices, and stronger government support for clean transportation.
After years of challenges in Pakistan’s auto-financing sector, consumers are increasingly viewing electric mobility as a practical long-term solution.
Chairman and CEO of Kingsbridge, Omar Malik, said Pakistan’s ambitious target of converting 30% of its vehicle fleet to electric mobility by 2030 is creating strong demand for new-energy vehicles.
He highlighted that China’s manufacturing capabilities and competitive pricing are enabling Pakistan to expand EV adoption while strengthening the local automotive industry.
Malik further observed that higher fuel costs are making electric transportation increasingly attractive for Pakistani families.
He added that electric motorcycles provide quieter, easier-to-operate mobility solutions, particularly benefiting women commuters, while also contributing to cleaner energy use and lower transportation expenses.