Indus Motor rejects rumours of Pakistan exit

In a flurry of misinformation, a baseless rumour spread like wildfire across the nation, claiming that Indus Motor Company (IMC), a leading automobile manufacturer in Pakistan, would be permanently halting production and closing its manufacturing facilities. However, IMC has promptly clarified the situation, explaining that the temporary shutdown was merely a routine occurrence and that production has since resumed.

Dispelling the falsehoods, IMC stated that the closure was due to limited inventory and delays in opening Letters of Credit (LCs). It emphasised that the production units had ceased operations until June 8 as part of the regular business cycle.

Speaking to the Express Tribune, Ali Asghar Jamali, CEO of Indus Motor Company, said that the company’s plans to introduce new models, including a locally manufactured hybrid SUV aimed at reducing carbon emissions by 35%, remain on track. He emphasised that this milestone achievement will have a significant impact on the environment, fuel consumption, and localisation efforts in Pakistan.

The upcoming hybrid SUV, designed with a 35% reduction in carbon emissions, is set to be the country’s first locally manufactured vehicle of its kind.

Senior Automotive Expert, Zafar Ali, highlighted that IMC had made an investment of over $100 million in September 2021 for the local production of HEVs with a high level of localisation, particularly in the SUV category. Despite the current challenges faced by the industry, the production of a locally manufactured hybrid vehicle marks a significant milestone for the entire automotive sector.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 21^st, 2023.

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