In a major push toward cleaner and more sustainable transportation, the Government of Pakistan has finalized plans to distribute 116,000 electric bikes across the country through a two-year installment plan. This ambitious initiative falls under the National Electric Vehicle (NEV) Policy 2025–2030 and is set to be officially announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Independence Day.
Sources confirm that the initiative has been developed in collaboration with the State Bank of Pakistan and the Bank Association, aiming to reduce carbon emissions, promote electric vehicle (EV) adoption, and provide affordable transport options to the general public. The policy also aims to create a more inclusive and accessible transportation system, particularly for those who rely on two- or three-wheeled vehicles for their daily commute or work-related duties.
Subsidy and Eligibility Details
As part of the scheme, each electric bike or rickshaw will receive a government subsidy of Rs. 50,000. The estimated price of an electric bike is around Rs. 250,000, with the remaining amount—over Rs. 200,000—to be paid by the buyer in easy monthly installments. Eligible applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 65 to qualify for the scheme.
Long-Term Vision and Targets
The NEV Policy 2025–30 sets an ambitious target: the production of 2.213 million electric vehicles by the year 2030. To support this vision, the government has allocated a massive Rs. 100 billion in subsidies over the next five years.
For the current fiscal year alone, Rs. 9 billion has been earmarked for this purpose. The annual subsidy will continue to rise steadily, with Rs. 19 billion planned for 2027, over Rs. 24 billion for 2028, and more than Rs. 26 billion for 2029. In 2023, the government had already allocated Rs. 23 billion for similar subsidy programs.
A total of 17 companies have already received licenses to manufacture electric bikes locally, helping accelerate the shift toward a 30% electric vehicle adoption rate by 2030.
Sindh Government’s Women-Centric Plan
In a parallel effort, the Sindh government has proposed a plan specifically aimed at easing transportation challenges faced by women. The Sindh Transport Department has requested Rs. 300 million from the provincial government to distribute electric bikes free of cost to women, particularly those engaged in professional work.
Officials have stressed that the requested funds be allocated outside the regular budget, highlighting the importance and urgency of this initiative. If approved, the move will serve as a progressive step toward women’s empowerment and workplace inclusion.
A Step Toward Greener, Affordable Mobility
The rollout of electric bikes marks a significant shift in Pakistan’s transportation landscape. Not only does it support environmental sustainability goals, but it also offers a practical solution to the growing demand for affordable transport options in urban and rural areas alike.
With the official policy announcement expected on August 14, anticipation is building nationwide. The government’s commitment to long-term EV adoption, combined with financial incentives and localized manufacturing, reflects a broader national strategy aimed at transforming how Pakistanis move—while also addressing climate concerns and economic challenges.
This initiative is expected to pave the way for a cleaner, more inclusive, and technology-driven future of mobility in Pakistan.
