KARACHI: The automotive industry is gearing up for significant changes, particularly with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and several highly anticipated car releases. This transformation is pushing manufacturers to innovate and consumers to adjust their buying habits, as they eagerly await the new models hitting the market.
One noteworthy development includes Pakistan's draft of the National Electric Vehicle Policy (NEVP) for 2025-30, which is expected to reshape the country's automotive sector. The policy proposes substantial tax benefits for the import of electric vehicles. Specifically, it aims to encourage the import of completely built units (CBUs), with vehicle categories including passenger cars, SUVs, and light commercial vehicles, subjected to lowered customs duties of 25% until mid-2027. After this period, duties will rise to 50%, reflecting the government's push toward green technology.
Local assemblers are expressing concerns over this policy. They argue the liberal import stance may undermine domestic EV manufacturing, as many local companies have heavily invested to align with this global shift toward electric transport. “Local EV assemblers will not gain from the CBU imports,” remarked one assembler, indicating the need for protectionist measures to nurture domestic manufacturing.
Market insiders suggest the recent NEVP has been shaped beneficially for established EV players set to enter Pakistan. A global EV giant plans to start local assembly by 2026, which is anticipated to flood the market with its imported models beforehand. This situation presents both opportunities and challenges, as the company aims to establish dominance by selling 100,000 cars by 2030.
Consumer response will likely dictate future investments and product availability. Some experts argue the government may be using imported vehicles to gauge market interest before manufacturers begin local assembly.
Meanwhile, Regal Automobiles has announced it will assemble the country's first electric SUV at its Lahore plant. The Seres 3 SUV, available with two battery variants, is expected to cost around Rs 8,390,000 when it launches. Factory production is set to commence soon.
Car manufacturers are not only focused on electric models but are also gearing up for other exciting new releases. For example, the Mahindra BE 6e, launching around May 2025, is generating buzz as it is expected to be priced between 17-25 lakh INR. This all-electric SUV will be built on Mahindra’s INGLO electric platform, emphasizing advanced technology, performance, and efficiency.
Not to be overlooked, Skoda's new Kylaq has just been launched at 7.89 lakh INR, with prices expected to range up to 14.50 lakh based on variants. Utilizing the same engine as the Skoda Kushaq, this compact SUV promises strong appeal among buyers.
The Renault Duster is poised for a comeback with its all-new model set to be priced between 10-15 lakh INR and released around June next year. The anticipation around this popular SUV indicates strong consumer demand for both legacy and new entrants.
Adding to the excitement, Maruti Suzuki plans to introduce its first electric vehicle, the e-Vitara, aiming to tap the growing EV segment.
Across the industry, manufacturers seem to be leaning heavily on electrification, adapting to the shifting demands of modern consumers who increasingly prioritize sustainability. With numerous new models hitting the market soon, buyers are encouraged to explore these options before making purchasing decisions.
This upcoming influx of vehicles—ranging from electric innovations to beloved traditional models—reflects the automotive industry’s efforts to evolve with changing consumer landscapes. The next few months promise to be pivotal as existing companies embrace fresh competition and prospective buyers look forward to the latest offerings.
The interplay between government policies, manufacturing incentives, and consumer preferences continues to shape this dynamic environment. Keeping abreast of these releases could mean finding the perfect new ride just waiting around the corner.
