By Buzznest based on Car Enthusiast, Daily Commuter, and Real Talker
For decades, Pakistan’s roads have been ruled by small Suzuki hatchbacks, Toyota sedans, and Honda city cars. But as fuel prices keep climbing and the world pushes for greener options, things are finally shifting here too. Electric cars (EVs) and hybrids are no longer just a global trend they’re making their way into the Pakistani market in a big way.
This isn’t just hype. By mid-2025, Pakistan already had close to 80,000 EVs on the road (mostly bikes, scooters, and three-wheelers). Hybrids, especially plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), have seen sales double in the past year. Automakers, both local and foreign, are now racing to bring new energy vehicles (NEVs) into the country.
So what does the future look like? Let’s break it down.
Government Push and New Policies
The government’s NEV Policy 2025-30 is a game-changer. It sets a bold target: 30% of all new vehicles should be EVs, PHEVs, or hybrids by 2030 (and 50% by 2040).
Here’s what makes it attractive for buyers:
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Only 1% GST on EVs (vs. 17% on petrol/diesel cars).
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Subsidies up to Rs 15,000 per kWh of battery for cars.
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Special grants for bikes and rickshaws.
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A plan to install 3,000 charging stations by 2030, with at least 40 on highways.
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Reduced electricity rates for charging stations.
Right now, the reality is different fewer than 100 public charging stations exist, mostly in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. But the direction is clear: EVs are going to be supported heavily by the state.
Local Car Assemblers Stepping In
Pakistani auto assemblers don’t want to be left behind.
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BYD Pakistan is setting up a plant near Karachi with capacity for 25,000 EVs per year by 2026.
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MG Motors (JW Auto Park) has started local assembly of the MG HS Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV).
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Sazgar Engineering is tripling its capacity to bring models like the Haval H6 PHEV and the Ora EV hatchback.
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Regal Automobiles has already begun rolling out Pakistan’s first CKD-assembled EV SUV the Seres 3 EV.
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Toyota, Hyundai, and Kia are testing the waters with hybrids like the Prius, Santa Fe Hybrid, and Kia Sorento Hybrid.
This shift toward local assembly is important because it will gradually reduce prices and increase availability.
Upcoming Electric Cars in Pakistan (2025-2026)
BYD Atto 3
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Range: ~410 km
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Price: ~Rs 8.9 million
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Stylish EV SUV, already launched and attracting strong interest.
Seres 3 EV
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Range: 403 km
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Locally assembled (Regal Motors, Lahore).
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Pakistan’s first CKD EV SUV.
Ora EV (Great Wall)
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Range: 300 km
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Expected to launch in 2025.
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Targeting budget-conscious city drivers.
MG EV (expected 2025–26)
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Range: Up to 525 km (global spec).
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If locally assembled, could fall in Rs 10–12m price range.
Upcoming Hybrid and Plug-In Models
MG HS PHEV
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50 km electric range + petrol engine.
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Price: ~Rs 9.9m.
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Locally assembled and already on sale.
Haval H6 PHEV
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90 km pure electric range.
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0–100 km/h in under 5 seconds!
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Price: ~Rs 12.9m.
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Expected launch: August 2025.
BYD Shark 6 PHEV (Pickup Truck)
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100 km EV range, 800 km total range.
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436 hp, dual motors.
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Price: ~Rs 18–20m.
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A luxury option for enthusiasts.
Toyota RAV4 / Corolla Cross Hybrid (Expected)
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Global models already popular.
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Pakistani launch depends on demand and pricing.
EV vs Hybrid in Pakistan: Which Makes More Sense?
Here’s the honest truth:
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EVs are great if you live in a big city, have home charging, and don’t drive long distances. They save up to 70% on monthly fuel costs.
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Hybrids make sense if you live outside major cities, travel long distances, or can’t trust the charging network. They give you flexibility with both petrol and electricity.
So, for now:
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Cities = EV advantage.
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Highways & Rural Areas = Hybrid advantage.
The Road Ahead
The years 2025–2026 will be a turning point for Pakistan’s car market. For the first time, buyers will have a real choice between EVs, hybrids, and traditional petrol cars.
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EVs like the BYD Atto 3 and Seres 3 will make headlines in cities.
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Hybrids like the MG HS PHEV and Haval H6 PHEV will win over cautious buyers.
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Charging stations will grow, but not everywhere overnight.
The bottom line? The best car is not just the fastest or greenest — it’s the one that fits your life.
So, are you team EV or team Hybrid? 🚗⚡
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