In a groundbreaking move for Pakistan’s automotive industry, Nishat Group is investing $100 million in a new electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing project in collaboration with China’s Chery Automobile Co., as reported by Bloomberg.
The new venture will be managed through NexGen Auto Pvt., a Nishat subsidiary, and marks a major step toward local EV production in Pakistan. The initiative aligns with Pakistan’s strategic goal of transitioning 30% of its vehicle sales and production to EVs by 2030.
EV Launch Plans and Vehicle Lineup
According to Muhammad Aqib Zulfiqar, CFO of NexGen Auto Pvt., the company will launch five new vehicles under Chery’s Omoda and Jaecoo brands. The official unveiling is scheduled for Friday, with local assembly operations to commence by October 2025.
These vehicles are expected to include a mix of fully electric and plug-in hybrid models, offering competitive pricing, high-tech features, and long-range capabilities. The initiative also signals a strong commitment to EV localization and job creation in Pakistan.
Why Chery and Why Now?
Zulfiqar revealed that the partnership was finalized after Nishat’s team visited China and conducted a thorough evaluation of multiple EV manufacturers. The decision to partner with Chery was based on the automaker’s global leadership in:
- EV innovation
- Cost efficiency
- Scalability of production
With several Chinese brands already active in the Pakistani EV market and BYD planning local production in 2025, Nishat’s move further accelerates the EV ecosystem in the country.
Call for Policy Support
While the venture is a promising leap forward, Zulfiqar also emphasized the need for policy acceleration, particularly in licensing for EV charging stations. He urged the Pakistani government to fast-track:
- Infrastructure development
- Investor-friendly EV regulations
- Incentives for local production and R&D
Such steps are essential to meet the country’s 2030 EV adoption target and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Looking Ahead
The Nishat Chery EV Pakistan partnership is poised to transform the local auto industry, offering consumers access to high-quality, affordable EVs while boosting economic activity. With production starting in October 2025, the project may become a cornerstone in the nation’s green mobility shift.
