Pakistan Aims for 50% Electrified Vehicles by 2030 with BYD's Entry

BYD Pakistan, a partnership between China's BYD and Mega Motors, targets up to 50% electrified vehicle adoption by 2030. The strategic move includes an assembly plant opening in 2026 and a rollout of three models this year. Challenges include infrastructure and duty structures, but plans for extensive charging networks are underway.

BYD Pakistan, a strategic partnership between China's BYD and Pakistani car group Mega Motors, announced that up to 50% of all vehicles bought in the country by 2030 will be electrified in some form. This aligns with global targets and follows last month's announcement of BYD's entry into the South Asian market.

With a population of 250 million, Pakistan is set to be one of BYD's newest markets. The partnership plans to open an assembly plant by early 2026, with vehicle sales starting this year after the launch of three models in August. Kamran Kamal, BYD's spokesperson in Pakistan and CEO of Hub Power, expressed optimism about reaching the ambitious target for the auto sector.

Challenges include the current dominance of Japanese automakers Toyota, Honda, and Suzuki and market entry of competitors like KIA, Changan, and MG. Nevertheless, Kamal stated that the challenge of charging infrastructure would be mitigated by government incentives and collaboration with two oil marketing companies to establish 20 to 30 charging stations in the initial phase.

(With inputs from agencies.)