Latest news with #NewEnergyVehicles
Express Tribune
22-06-2025
- Automotive
- Express Tribune
Bumpy road to sustainability
Listen to article Pakistan's formal unveiling of the National Electric Vehicle (NEV) Policy 2025-30 marks a long-overdue step in the right direction — but one that also lays bare the country's chronic struggle to balance ambition with reality. While the government's goal of having 30 per cent of all new vehicles sold by 2030 be electric appears visionary, the road leading to that destination is littered with financial and structural potholes. The transport sector is one of Pakistan's biggest contributors to carbon emissions, and tackling it is essential if the country is to meet its climate targets. On paper, the benefits of this transition are undeniable — saving 2.07 billion litres of fuel annually; trimming $1 billion in foreign exchange outflow; reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 4.5 million tonnes; and cutting national healthcare-related costs by $405 million, among others. The inclusion of a gender-sensitive subsidy policy that reserves 25 per cent of electric bikes and rickshaws for women is also a welcome nod to inclusive mobility. But ambition without planning is a recipe for frustration. With an initial subsidy of just Rs9 billion allocated for the coming fiscal year, the numbers are unlikely to move the needle in any meaningful way. The affordability of New Energy Vehicles remains a serious question. For the average Pakistani struggling to make ends meet, an electric bike or car — even subsidised — remains out of reach. The transition to sustainable energy in transport must be part of a broader, systemic green strategy. Piecemeal efforts, no matter how noble, will be easily overwhelmed by the inertia of structural inefficiencies and economic constraints. In a country battling an energy and climate crisis, sustainability must be rooted in pragmatic, long-term planning and above all the needs of the average citizen.
Business Recorder
18-06-2025
- Automotive
- Business Recorder
Below 850cc cars: Pak Suzuki MD voices concern over proposed GST hike
ISLAMABAD: Pak Suzuki Motors Managing Director (MD) Hiroshi Kawamura, Tuesday, voiced concern over the proposed increase in sales tax on vehicles under 850cc from 12.5 percent to 18 percent, warning that such measures could adversely affect the automotive sector. During a meeting with Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan here, MD Pak Suzuki Motors, while discussing budgetary impact on auto sector, said that it will not have a positive impact on industry. The SAPM, while explaining the impact of the federal budget and the proposed new tariff policy on the automotive industry, stated that since Pakistan was in an IMF programme, so, under such a situation it cannot continue providing tax exemptions to any sector as it has not served the purpose. The MD Pak Suzuki argued that the increased tax burdens are typically passed on to consumers and could lead to higher vehicle prices, reducing affordability and dampening market demand. 'The impact of higher sales tax is always borne by customers,' Kawamura remarked and cautioned that the resultant price hikes may hinder industry growth and put pressure on production. In response, SAPM Haroon Akhtar reiterated the government's resolve to support the auto industry, emphasising that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is deeply committed to the growth of the sector and is fully aware of the challenges it faces. 'Yes, there are challenges,' Haroon stated, 'but progress demands unity and collaboration. The auto industry is a vital source of employment and local manufacturing strength.' He assured that the prime minister would not allow the sector to falter and pledged continued engagement with industry stakeholders to navigate challenges and seize growth opportunities. In another meeting with chief of another automaker, Haroon Akhtar Khan discussed the strategic challenges facing Pakistan's automotive industry and the potential implications of the federal budget on the sector. Danial Malik, chief executive officer of Master Changan Motors called on the SAPM to present the reservations of the auto sector. The two sides focused on the importance of transitioning towards New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), especially electric vehicles, as a national priority. Malik emphasised the need for sustained policy support and industry-friendly measures to ensure a stable and growth-oriented environment. Haroon Akhtar reaffirmed the government of Pakistan's commitment to implementing a sustainable and modern auto policy aligned with global trends. He announced that the National Electric Vehicle Policy will soon be unveiled. 'The prime minister envisions Pakistan's auto industry becoming globally competitive,' Haroon Akhtar said and added,'Our upcoming EV policy will provide a comprehensive framework for infrastructure development, investment incentives, and policy facilitation.' He added that, in line with the prime minister's vision, special incentives will be offered to promote the adoption of electric vehicles in the country, supporting long-term industrial growth and environmental sustainability. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
17-06-2025
- Automotive
- Express Tribune
GST hike feared to hit auto sales
Listen to article Pak Suzuki Motor Company has cautioned the government that the proposed increase in general sales tax (GST) in the budget for fiscal year 2025-26 may result in a significant decline in sales of the auto industry, which will negatively impact original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) as well as vendors. Discussing the negative impact of 18% GST, Pak Suzuki Managing Director Hiroshi Kawamura said that it would also affect employment across the automotive value chain, according to sources. He mentioned that economic growth was sustainable with 12% sales tax and any further increase would impact the entire auto industry. At present, around 2.5 million direct and indirect jobs are being provided by the automobile industry. "This number may further increase if 12.5% GST continues in this category," he said. Hiroshi Kawamura held a meeting with Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Industries Haroon Akhtar Khan on Tuesday to review the impact of the budget and the proposed new tariff policy. "The impact of higher sales tax is always borne by customers," Kawamura remarked. He voiced concern over the proposed increase in sales tax on vehicles below 850cc engine capacity from 12.5% to 18%, warning that such measures could adversely affect the sector. He stated that the tax hike could lead to higher vehicle prices, reducing affordability and dampening market demand. The price increase may also hinder industry growth and increase pressure on production. In response, the PM aide reiterated the government's resolve to support the auto industry as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was committed to the sector's growth and was aware of the challenges. "Progress demands unity and collaboration. The auto industry is a vital source of employment and local manufacturing strength," he remarked. Haroon Akhtar assured the MD that the PM would not allow the sector to falter and pledged continued engagement with industry stakeholders to help navigate challenges and seize growth opportunities. Separately, the PM special assistant held a meeting with Master Changan Motors CEO Danial Malik to discuss the strategic challenges faced by the auto industry and potential implications of the budget. They deliberated on the importance of transitioning to New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), especially electric vehicles, as a national priority. Malik stressed the need for sustained policy support and industry-friendly measures to ensure a stable and growth-oriented environment. Haroon Akhtar reaffirmed the government's commitment to implementing a sustainable and modern auto policy aligned with global trends. He announced that the EV policy would be unveiled soon. "The prime minister envisions a globally competitive auto industry," he said. "Our EV policy will provide a comprehensive framework for infrastructure development, investment incentives and policy facilitation." He added that special incentives would be offered to promote the adoption of EVs, which would support long-term industrial growth and environmental sustainability.
Business Recorder
02-06-2025
- Automotive
- Business Recorder
Master Group partners with China's Chery Automobile
LAHORE: Master Group of Industries, one of Pakistan's most respected and diversified business conglomerates, has officially partnered with Chery Brand, China's No.1 global vehicle exporter, to bring the latest Super Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) and New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) to Pakistan. With over 60 years of industrial excellence and around 40 years of auto-manufacturing experience, Master Group is investing in a cutting-edge manufacturing facility, world-class 3S Dealership network, and comprehensive after-sales support, led by Master Auto Engineering (a subsidiary of Master Group of Industries) under the leadership of Samir Malik (CEO). This strategic alliance heralds a new era for Pakistan's automotive industry, driven by sustainable mobility, advanced technology, and an elevated customer experience. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
31-05-2025
- Automotive
- Business Recorder
Master Group partners with China's No.1 global automobile export brand, Chery
Master Group of Industries, one of Pakistan's most respected and diversified business conglomerates, has officially partnered with Chery Brand, China's No.1 global vehicle exporter, to bring the latest Super Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) and New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) to Pakistan. With over 60 years of industrial excellence and around 40 years of auto-manufacturing experience, Master Group is investing in a cutting-edge manufacturing facility, world-class 3S Dealership network, and comprehensive after-sales support, led by Master Auto Engineering (a subsidiary of Master Group of Industries) under the leadership of Mr. Samir Malik (CEO). This strategic alliance heralds a new era for Pakistan's automotive industry, driven by sustainable mobility, advanced technology, and an elevated customer experience. Get ready for ground-breaking product launches, innovations, and more.
