Stable EV policy, wider charging network crucial

Policy dialogue has called for a stable electric vehicle (EV) framework and a wider charging network to accelerate affordable electric mobility across Pakistan.

Indus Consortium hosted a policy dialogue titled "Electrifying Everyday Mobility: Advancing Public Transport and Two & Three-Wheelers" at the Pakistan Red Crescent late Tuesday evening.

The dialogue brought together representatives from government ministries, academia, financial institutions, the private sector, development partners and civil society to discuss practical pathways for accelerating affordable electric mobility, in line with the government's New Energy Vehicle (NEV) Policy 2025-2030. The policy targets 30% electrification of all new vehicle sales by 2030, with a specific 50% electrification target for two-wheelers, three-wheelers and buses over the same period. In his welcome remarks, Indus Consortium Board Member Liaqat Ali said Pakistan needed a stable, long-term EV policy framework instead of frequent changes, so that the industry and financial institutions could plan and invest with confidence.

Member Senate Standing Committee on Power Poonjo Mal Bheel said charging and battery-swapping infrastructure must be expanded well beyond highways into cities, residential areas and rural regions to support everyday EV use, and that the national grid required upgrading and stronger integration with renewable energy to reliably meet growing EV demand.

Sindh University Jamshoro Vice Chancellor Dr Fateh Marri remarked that youth were the future of the country and they would be equipped with knowledge, skills, and exposure to showcase their ideas and thoughts through creative activities.

Speakers emphasised that the local manufacturing of EVs, batteries and components should be promoted as a distinct industrial priority to reduce costs and build a self-sustaining EV industry. They said banks and financial institutions needed clearer standards on battery life and resale value, along with de-risking mechanisms, to unlock affordable EV financing for consumers and businesses, and called for closer coordination between government ministries, regulators, financial institutions and the industry to ensure the policy, grid development and financing move forward together towards the 2030 targets.

The discussion focused on innovative financing and leasing mechanisms, effective delivery of consumer incentives and subsidies, localisation of EV manufacturing and supply chains, integration of renewable energy with electric mobility, and the policy and regulatory reforms needed to create an enabling investment environment. The dialogue also provided a platform for stakeholders to share international and national best practices and develop actionable recommendations to support Pakistan's transition towards a cleaner, more resilient and climate-smart transport system.