Islamabad, April 22, 2026 – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday directed authorities to accelerate the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs) across Pakistan, emphasizing that a rapid shift toward clean transportation is essential to reduce fuel import costs and enhance long-term energy security.
Chairing a high-level meeting on EV adoption, the prime minister said that ongoing efforts must be expedited to ensure wider penetration of electric mobility in the country. He highlighted that Pakistan’s heavy reliance on imported petroleum products continues to strain foreign exchange reserves, making EV adoption a strategic necessity.
Officials briefed the meeting that 72 manufacturing certificates have so far been issued for electric motorcycles and rickshaws, while four certificates have been granted for electric cars. Additionally, 123 applications have been received for the establishment of EV charging stations nationwide, indicating growing investor interest in the sector.
The government is also working on an ambitious plan to convert 30% of vehicles in Pakistan to electric power within the next five years. This transition is projected to save up to $4.5 billion in fuel import costs, significantly easing pressure on the external account.
To encourage adoption, the government plans to provide electric bikes to employees up to Grade 16 on easy instalment plans. The initiative is expected to promote affordability and accelerate the shift toward cleaner transport options.
Prime Minister Shehbaz stressed that, given the evolving regional situation and future energy demands, EV promotion is crucial not only for economic stability but also for environmental protection. He called for strict transparency in subsidies offered under the National EV Policy, particularly for low-income individuals purchasing electric motorcycles.
The meeting was attended by key cabinet members, including Ahsan Iqbal, Muhammad Aurangzeb, and Owais Khan Leghari, along with senior officials, underscoring the government’s commitment to advancing Pakistan’s electric mobility agenda.