China's BYD partners with local firms to launch largest EV charging network in Pakistan
NEVs refer to alternative-fuel vehicles that rely on electric, hybrid, hydrogen or other non-traditional power sources instead of conventional gasoline or diesel engines
BYD, a global leader in battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, has expanded aggressively in Asia, Europe and Latin America. Mega Motor, a subsidiary of Pakistan's HUBCO, is spearheading the local manufacturing, distribution and sales of BYD-branded vehicles.
'This nation-wide rollout of infrastructure marks one of the most significant developments in the country's shift toward electric mobility by addressing a critical gap in Pakistan's EV ecosystem and establishing the most extensive NEV charging network,' BYD said in a statement.
'As part of this strategic and groundbreaking roadmap, HGL will install approximately 128 DC fast chargers across the country over the next three years, with 50 installations planned by December 2025.'
It added that the charging points would be placed every 150-200 kilometers of highways and motorways along with malls, hotels and hospitals.
'Range anxiety remains one of the most significant barriers to NEV adoption across Pakistan,' BYD Pakistan Vice President Sales and Strategy Danish Khaliq said.
'Through this groundbreaking partnership with HUBCO Green, we are not just addressing a logistical issue but shaping the entire mobility landscape of the country.'
BYD and MMC partnered last year to introduce electric vehicles (EVs) in Pakistan, aiming to accelerate the country's transition toward sustainable mobility.
The government approved the National Electric Vehicles Policy in 2019, setting a target of 30 percent EVs by 2030. In March, Pakistan inaugurated the country's fastest EV charging station in Islamabad.
Earlier this year, Pakistan announced a 45 percent reduction in power tariffs for electric vehicle charging stations. The government is also planning financing schemes for e-bikes and the conversion of two and three-wheeled petrol vehicles.
According to a report submitted by the power ministry, there are currently more than 30 million two- and three-wheeled vehicles in Pakistan, which consume more than $5 billion worth of petroleum annually.
In January, China's ADM Group revealed plans to invest $250 million in setting up an electric vehicle manufacturing plant in Pakistan.
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