By Pakistan could soon see the launch of its first locally manufactured electric car priced at around Rs 1 million. Officials say the vehicle may enter the market by June 2026, marking a significant step for the country’s electric mobility plans and local auto manufacturing sector.
The announcement came from Engineering Development Board Chief Executive Hammad Mansoor during a discussion with journalists at an Iftar gathering. According to him, the upcoming vehicle will be a fully electric car developed under a Made in Pakistan initiative.
If introduced as planned, the project could become one of the most affordable electric vehicles in the country and may help expand EV adoption among local buyers.
Local Manufacturing and Battery Production Plans
Government officials say the new vehicle reflects broader efforts to increase local manufacturing in Pakistan’s automotive sector. Authorities believe stronger localisation can gradually reduce vehicle prices while encouraging new companies to enter the market.
For many years, Pakistan’s car industry has been dominated by a small number of large manufacturers. However, officials say this landscape is starting to change as more companies explore local production and new technologies.
Mansoor explained that growing competition and localisation could lower vehicle prices by as much as Rs 2.5 million over time. This could make both electric and traditional vehicles more accessible for consumers.
Battery manufacturing is also expected to play an important role in lowering EV costs. Pakistan’s first lithium battery production facility is reportedly preparing to begin operations by May 2026. A second battery plant is also expected to start production later in the year, around September.
Officials say roughly 74 percent of battery components will be produced locally once these facilities begin operating. Increased local supply could help reduce the overall cost of electric vehicles assembled in the country.
Range and Future EV Development
Initial details suggest the locally developed electric vehicle may offer a driving range of about 180 kilometers on a single charge. This range could be suitable for daily urban commuting in many Pakistani cities.
Officials also mentioned that more advanced electric models under development could potentially achieve much higher driving ranges. Some future vehicles could reportedly reach up to 1200 kilometers, though such figures may depend on future battery technology improvements.
The government is also considering policy changes to support the automotive sector. According to Mansoor, the upcoming federal budget may include adjustments to vehicle taxes.
Lower taxes could make electric, hybrid, and conventional vehicles more affordable and encourage broader adoption of cleaner transportation technologies.
Growing Focus on Electric Mobility
Pakistan has gradually increased its focus on electric mobility as part of efforts to reduce fuel imports and lower emissions. Electric vehicles also offer the potential to reduce transportation costs for consumers over time.
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Local production could further support these goals by creating domestic supply chains for EV components and batteries.
While full specifications and manufacturer details for the upcoming electric car have not yet been officially confirmed, the expected launch of a locally produced EV around the Rs 1 million price range has already attracted significant attention in Pakistan’s automotive market.
If the project moves forward as planned, it could represent an important milestone for the country’s transition toward electric transportation and domestic vehicle manufacturing.
