ISLAMABAD: The federal government has officially announced a new national automotive policy focused on expanding the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and making cars more affordable for middle-income consumers.
Government Unveils New Auto Policy to Promote Electric Vehicles
The policy was unveiled during a joint press conference in Islamabad by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and Adviser to the Prime Minister for Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan.
According to the information minister, the framework is designed to boost domestic manufacturing and exports while delivering accessible, high-quality, and environmentally sustainable transportation options for the general public. He noted that the policy was formulated following extensive consultations with industry stakeholders, comprehensive technical analyses, and benchmarking against international models.
Addressing past market trends, Tarar pointed out that high import duties had been maintained for decades to shield local industries. However, he stated that despite this long-term protection, the domestic sector had lagged in introducing modern innovations and features standard for consumers elsewhere.
Emphasizing the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Tarar highlighted a renewed government focus on supporting the middle class, noting a significant surge in the adoption of electric motorcycles and scooters among women and students commuting to schools, colleges, and workplaces.
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Beyond urban mobility, the government stressed that scaling up the EV sector will yield critical economic and environmental benefits by curbing the country’s petroleum import bill. Officials noted that reducing reliance on imported fuel will alleviate fiscal pressures and free up resources for public infrastructure, health, and education initiatives.
