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inDrive’s Aurora Ventures Targets Pakistan Women Tech Founders With Fresh Startup Funding

Web Desk / May 23, 2026

inDrive has launched Aurora Ventures, a bold new investment program aimed at solving one of Pakistan’s biggest startup challenges: the lack of funding for women tech founders. The announcement has created fresh excitement across Pakistan’s startup ecosystem, especially among female entrepreneurs struggling to secure early-stage investment despite the country’s booming digital economy. The new initiative will invest between $180,000 and $250,000 into women-led startups at the pre-seed and seed stages. The program will initially focus on emerging markets, with Pakistan positioned as a major priority market. inDrive’s Aurora Ventures Plans to Transform Pakistan Startup Funding Pakistan’s startup ecosystem has grown rapidly over the last few years. According to research by Dealroom, the country’s startup ecosystem value has crossed $4 billion since 2020, outperforming several established global tech hubs in terms of growth pace. Yet behind this impressive expansion lies a serious problem. Access to investment capital remains extremely limited, particularly for female founders trying to scale innovative businesses. This is the gap that inDrive’s Aurora Ventures now aims to fill. Speaking about the initiative, Awais Saeed said Pakistan represents a critical test market for the company’s broader investment ambitions. He noted that the country already has exceptional entrepreneurial talent and a fast-growing digital economy, but women-led startups often reach institutional funding far later than they should. According to him, the issue is not capability but lack of access to investors and structured support systems. Why Pakistan Women Tech Founders Are Getting Global Attention Pakistan is increasingly becoming a hotspot for women-led innovation. The country recorded more than 200 submissions for the Aurora Tech Award in 2025 alone, reflecting rising participation from female entrepreneurs across the technology sector. One of the most notable Pakistani success stories linked to the initiative is Faiza Yousuf, who became a finalist in the 2023 edition of the award and gained international recognition through the platform. Aurora Ventures plans to use insights collected from five years of Aurora Tech Award data to identify startups with high growth potential before their market valuations rise significantly. This strategy could allow Pakistani founders to secure capital much earlier in their business journey. inDrive Expands Beyond Ride-Hailing Into Startup Investments The launch of Aurora Ventures also signals a major strategic shift for inDrive. Known globally as a ride-hailing and urban services platform, the company is now actively positioning itself as a long-term ecosystem investor in emerging markets. Instead of only offering transportation services, inDrive plans to support startups with funding, operational guidance, infrastructure access, and strategic mentorship. This broader ecosystem approach could help local startups overcome many of the operational barriers that slow business growth in Pakistan. Industry experts believe this model may become increasingly important as global venture capital investment becomes more selective and difficult to secure for early-stage founders. Pakistan Startup Ecosystem Faces Funding Crisis Despite rapid growth in Pakistan’s tech sector, funding shortages continue to impact startup survival rates. Many promising startups fail to move beyond early development stages due to the absence of institutional investors willing to take risks on emerging founders. Female entrepreneurs face even greater hurdles, often struggling to access investor networks dominated by traditional funding circles. Aurora Ventures enters the market at a time when demand for inclusive startup financing is reaching critical levels. The initiative’s focus on women-led startups could create new momentum for diversity within Pakistan’s technology industry while helping unlock untapped economic potential. Aurora Ventures Could Reshape Pakistan’s Startup Future The 2026 pilot phase of inDrive Aurora Ventures will focus on building its first investment portfolio while strengthening its long-term presence across emerging markets. For Pakistan’s growing community of women entrepreneurs, the program may represent far more than just another funding source. It could become a gateway to international visibility, global mentorship networks, and faster business scaling opportunities. As competition within Pakistan’s startup ecosystem intensifies, initiatives like Aurora Ventures may play a decisive role in determining which founders emerge as the country’s next major tech success stories.

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BYD Pakistan comes to Sialkot to showcase its NEV range

Press Release / May 22, 2026

Sialkot – BYD, the world’s No. 1 New Energy Vehicle (NEV) brand, continued its nationwide outreach aimed at introducing its New Energy Vehicle (NEV) portfolio as well as accelerating adoption of electric mobility through the city’s dynamic and globally connected consumer base. The on-ground activation is happening near Heaven Hawks Golf Club, Sialkot Cantt, and will end on 31st May, 2026. Sialkot, known for its export-driven economy and progressive consumer landscape, continues to emerge as a high-potential market for sustainable mobility solutions. The experience provided consumers with an opportunity to engage closely with BYD’s globally recognised NEV lineup through immersive product walkthroughs and expert-led interactions tailored to address key questions surrounding NEV technology, performance, and ownership. The showcase featured the BYD Atto 2, BYD Atto 3, and the BYD Shark 6, Pakistan’s most powerful PHEV pickup, with each model designed to cater to distinct lifestyles, driving preferences, and mobility needs. Visitors also had the opportunity to learn more about BYD’s industry-leading innovations, including the revolutionary Blade Battery, globally recognised for its safety, durability, and efficiency standards. Through live demonstrations and technology showcases, consumers are introduced to BYD’s advanced approach to performance, energy efficiency and intelligent cabin connectivity. “The transition to new energy vehicles is becoming increasingly critical for Pakistan’s sustainable future, and it is important that this shift is inclusive of cities beyond the traditional urban centres,” said Danish Khaliq, Vice President Sales and Strategy at BYD Pakistan – Mega Motor Company. “BYD is focused on enabling that transition by bringing our global technology directly to consumers. Sialkot’s progressive and export-oriented outlook makes it an important market for us, and this initiative is about creating awareness, building confidence, and making electric mobility more accessible for the consumer here.” Sialkot marked the second stop in a broader nationwide outreach initiative by BYD Pakistan, following Gujranwala, with upcoming engagements planned across key cities including Multan and Hyderabad. Through these on-ground experiences, BYD Pakistan aims to engage directly with consumers, better understand their evolving mobility expectations, and showcase how zero-emission, zero-fuel vehicles can seamlessly combine advanced technology, performance, and long-term value. The initiative is part of BYD Pakistan’s broader commitment to making electric mobility more accessible by giving consumers the opportunity to experience EV technology firsthand and make more informed mobility decisions.

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Used Vehicle Imports Drop Boosts Pakistan Auto Parts Industry Growth

Web Desk / May 20, 2026

Pakistan’s struggling manufacturing sector may finally be seeing a major turnaround as the sharp decline in Used Vehicle Imports begins to fuel growth for local auto assemblers and parts manufacturers. The Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts and Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM) has described the dramatic fall in imported used cars as a “game-changing development” for industrialisation in the country. Industry leaders believe the shift could revive Pakistan’s auto manufacturing ecosystem and create fresh momentum for large-scale industrial growth. For years, local manufacturers argued that excessive imports of used vehicles were damaging domestic production, reducing investment, and hurting thousands of workers linked to Pakistan’s automotive supply chain. Now, new government measures appear to be reversing that trend. Used Vehicle Imports Hit Record Low in Pakistan According to PAAPAM, only 148 used vehicles entered Pakistan in April under various import schemes. The figures reveal a stunning decline compared to previous years when monthly imports ranged between 3,500 and 4,000 vehicles. The imported vehicles included: • 19 vehicles under the gift scheme• 120 vehicles under the baggage scheme• 9 vehicles under the transfer of residence scheme Industry experts say this sharp reduction reflects stricter enforcement by authorities and the closure of loopholes that were allegedly being exploited for commercial imports. PAAPAM claims many importers had been misusing overseas Pakistani schemes to bring in vehicles for resale, creating unfair competition for local manufacturers. How Used Vehicle Imports Hurt Pakistan’s Auto Parts Industry The biggest beneficiaries of the decline in Used Vehicle Imports are Pakistan’s local auto vendors and parts manufacturers. According to PAAPAM, every locally assembled vehicle contains approximately Rs1.5 million worth of locally manufactured parts. When consumers purchase imported used vehicles instead of locally assembled cars, that revenue disappears from Pakistan’s industrial economy. The association estimates that used car imports have been causing annual losses exceeding Rs60 billion for domestic parts manufacturers. That financial damage affected thousands of businesses connected to the automotive supply chain, including: • Steel manufacturers• Plastic component makers• Tire companies• Electrical parts suppliers• Small engineering workshops Industry insiders say the latest import slowdown is already helping local factories increase production capacity and improve business confidence. Government Policies Behind the Decline in Used Vehicle Imports PAAPAM praised the government for taking “timely corrective measures” to support domestic manufacturing and reduce dependency on imported vehicles. The association believes policy reforms have successfully tightened regulations surrounding import schemes that were originally designed to facilitate overseas Pakistanis rather than commercial traders. These actions are now encouraging consumers to shift back toward locally assembled vehicles, directly benefiting Pakistan’s manufacturing sector. Experts say the move also supports the government’s broader economic goals, including: • Reducing pressure on foreign exchange reserves• Promoting industrialisation• Increasing employment opportunities• Expanding local manufacturing capacity• Supporting large-scale manufacturing growth Used Vehicle Imports Decline Fuels Industrial Recovery Pakistan’s large-scale manufacturing sector has faced serious challenges in recent years due to inflation, currency depreciation, high interest rates, and falling consumer demand. However, the drop in Used Vehicle Imports is now being viewed as a positive signal for industrial recovery. PAAPAM says rising demand for locally assembled vehicles is increasing production activity among both assemblers and vendors. This renewed activity could strengthen Pakistan’s industrial output in the coming months. The association also stressed that sustainable policy support remains essential if Pakistan wants to build a competitive automotive industry capable of generating exports and attracting long-term investment. Can Pakistan’s Auto Industry Finally Rebound? The sharp fall in Used Vehicle Imports has triggered optimism across Pakistan’s automotive sector. Manufacturers believe the country now has an opportunity to rebuild its industrial base and strengthen local production capabilities. While challenges such as high vehicle prices, taxes, and weak consumer purchasing power still remain, industry stakeholders see the latest trend as a major victory for domestic manufacturing. If the current momentum continues, Pakistan’s auto sector could emerge as one of the key drivers of industrial growth and economic recovery in the years ahead.

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Toyota Indus Eyes Hybrid Growth in Pakistan

Web Desk / May 14, 2026

The Toyota Indus Corporate Briefing highlighted the company’s future strategy, pricing outlook, and rising competition from Chinese automakers in Pakistan. The company discussed its latest financial performance and shared insights about vehicle demand, localization efforts, and the future of hybrid and electric vehicles in the country. According to details shared during the briefing, Toyota Indus acknowledged that competition in Pakistan’s auto market has intensified. Chinese brands, especially the BYD Shark 6, have increased pressure on Toyota’s Hilux sales in urban markets. However, the company stated that rural demand for the Hilux remained stable despite growing competition. Toyota officials said Fortuner sales performed strongly during the year. Volumes doubled on a yearly basis, showing strong customer demand in the SUV segment. The company also explained the recent reduction in Fortuner prices. Management clarified that the move was not a temporary discount campaign. Instead, the reduction came from structural cost improvements. Officials stated that government tax reductions contributed nearly 60 to 70 percent of the total price decrease. The remaining savings came through localization improvements and lower production costs. Toyota passed these benefits directly to customers. The Toyota Indus Corporate Briefing also focused heavily on the future of electrification in Pakistan. The company said electric vehicles represent an unavoidable global transition. However, Toyota believes hybrid vehicles will gain wider acceptance in Pakistan before full electric vehicles become mainstream. Management explained that Pakistan still faces infrastructure and policy challenges related to EV adoption. Because of this, Toyota plans to focus more on hybrid technology in the short term. The company also confirmed that it plans to launch new models in different phases over the coming years. Further vehicle launches will depend on greater clarity regarding Pakistan’s National Electric Vehicle policy. Toyota shared details about its localization progress as well. The company revealed that localization levels for the Corolla, Yaris, and Corolla Cross now exceed 60 percent. Meanwhile, localization in the SUV and pickup segment, including Hilux and Fortuner, increased from 38 percent to more than 41 percent. Company officials said these improvements helped reduce production costs. Toyota transferred nearly 3 percent of the cost savings directly to consumers through lower prices. Despite growing Chinese competition, Toyota maintained confidence in its market position. Management stated that the company still holds more than 50 percent market share in most vehicle categories. The only major exception is the Corolla Cross segment, where market share stands between 25 and 30 percent because of stronger competition. Toyota also rejected the perception that its market position has weakened significantly. Officials stated that the company gained nearly 1 percent market share compared to last year. Management admitted that Toyota previously lost some customers to competing brands. However, they claimed many consumers have started returning to Toyota after trying alternative options. The company also announced fresh investment plans during the Toyota Indus Corporate Briefing. Toyota revealed an additional investment of Rs 1 billion for localization development in Pakistan. Officials described the investment as part of the company’s long term commitment to strengthening the domestic automotive industry. This latest allocation comes on top of nearly Rs 3 billion in previously approved localization investments. Toyota also discussed institutional sales and the imported used car market. According to management, government and corporate buyers together account for nearly 20 percent of total company sales. Both categories contribute equally to institutional demand. The company further noted that Pakistan imported 36,053 used vehicles between July 2025 and March 2026. However, imports dropped sharply to only 793 units in March 2026. Toyota linked this decline to disruptions caused by the US Iran conflict. For comparison, Pakistan imported more than 42,000 used vehicles during the full year of 2025. Management also expressed concern over uncertainty surrounding the used car import policy. Officials stated that the company is waiting for clear policy direction from the government. Toyota warned that current price reductions may not remain permanent. Officials said prices could rise again if production costs increase, especially after the upcoming federal budget. The company also highlighted uncertainty surrounding Pakistan’s Auto Policy, which will expire on June 30, 2026. According to Toyota, discussions between the government and the auto industry are ongoing. However, both sides have yet to finalize agreements regarding future incentives and policy support.

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Pakistan Plans Toll Free Motorway Access for Electric Vehicles

Web Desk / May 14, 2026

The federal government is preparing major reforms for Pakistan’s automobile sector under the upcoming Auto Policy 2026 to 2031. The new framework is expected to introduce fresh incentives for electric vehicles while gradually reducing long standing tariff protections in the industry. According to sources, the government plans to provide toll free access on motorways and national highways for New Energy Vehicles. These vehicles include battery electric vehicles, plug in hybrid vehicles, and fuel cell electric vehicles. Officials believe the initiative will encourage consumers to shift toward cleaner and more energy efficient transport options. The proposal forms part of broader efforts to promote sustainable mobility and reduce dependence on imported fuel. Sources said the government wants to accelerate the adoption of modern vehicle technology in Pakistan through targeted incentives and policy reforms. The expected motorway toll relief aims to make electric vehicle ownership more attractive for consumers. The upcoming policy also includes major changes to Pakistan’s traditional auto protection regime. The government plans to phase out Additional Customs Duties completely by fiscal year 2029. At the same time, Regulatory Duties will see a sharp reduction over the next several years. Officials said these duties will decrease by nearly 80 percent by fiscal year 2030. The government also plans to abolish all concessionary Statutory Regulatory Orders linked to the auto sector by 2030. These concessions have historically played a major role in protecting local manufacturers from foreign competition. Officials believe the reforms will improve market competitiveness and attract new investment into Pakistan’s automobile industry. The policy further outlines a gradual reduction in import tariffs on vehicles. Duties on Completely Built Unit vehicles currently range from 50 percent to 100 percent. Under the proposed framework, these duties will decline to between 35 percent and 75 percent over the next five years. Similarly, the government plans to lower tariffs on Completely Knocked Down units used for local vehicle assembly. Duties on CKD units for cars, SUVs, and minivans will fall from 30 percent to 20 percent during the policy period. The reforms aim to reduce the weighted average applied tariff to below 6 percent by fiscal year 2030. Officials said the policy will continue supporting domestic manufacturing despite lower tariffs. Incentives for New Energy Vehicles will remain linked to localization requirements to encourage local production and parts manufacturing. Companies seeking policy benefits will need to increase local assembly and develop domestic supply chains. The government hopes this strategy will strengthen Pakistan’s automotive sector while supporting the transition toward cleaner transport technologies. Industry experts believe the reforms could transform the local automobile market in the coming years. Lower duties and electric vehicle incentives may attract international manufacturers and increase competition in Pakistan. Analysts also believe consumers could benefit from greater vehicle variety, improved technology, and potentially lower prices in the long term. The new policy comes at a time when governments around the world are promoting cleaner mobility solutions to reduce carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. Pakistan now appears ready to move in the same direction with a stronger focus on electric and hybrid transportation. The Auto Policy 2026 to 2031 is expected to define the future of Pakistan’s automobile industry as authorities push for industrial growth, foreign investment, and sustainable transportation solutions.

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MINI arrives in Pakistan with its new all-electric model family

Press Release / May 11, 2026

Karachi. MINI enters the Pakistani market, marking a new chapter for the brand in a country with strong long-term potential and a rapidly evolving premium mobility landscape. Introduced by BMW Group Middle East in partnership with Dewan Motors, the new generation of MINI vehicles is now available to local customers for the first time. The market entry is defined by a fully electric model portfolio, including the MINI Cooper Electric, MINI Aceman and MINI Countryman Electric. Built on a new technology platform, the new MINI family combines characteristic design, an immersive digital experience and locally emission-free mobility, tailored for urban environments and evolving customer expectations. Across the new MINI family, a strong focus is placed on individualisation and personal expression. A wide range of trims, materials and digital experience modes allow customers to configure their vehicle according to their preferences, creating a highly personalised driving environment that reflects the distinctive and expressive character of the MINI brand. At the core of the line-up, the all-electric MINI Cooper reinterprets the brand’s icon for the electric age. It compact proportions, the hallmark “go-kart feeling” and a design reduced to the essentials, enhanced by a fully digital experience centred around the circular OLED display, MINI Operating System 9 and intuitive user interaction. Positioned between the MINI Cooper and the MINI Countryman, the MINI Aceman introduces a new concept within brand’s line-up. As a fully electric crossover in the premium small car segment, it combines compact exterior dimensions with a versatile interior and a progressive design language, offering a new interpretation of urban mobility. As the largest model in the line-up, the MINI Countryman extends the brand’s offering into a more versatile and spacious segment. With increased dimensions, enhanced comfort and the availability of all-wheel drive, it combines everyday usability with long-distance capability, while maintaining the characteristic MINI driving dynamics and introducing a new level of digital experience and electrified performance. Dennis Obermeier, Head of MINI Middle East, said “MINI is seeing clear demand in Pakistan for more expressive, connected and design-led vehicles. With its new generation, the brand responds with a fully electric portfolio that integrates advanced digital technology with an intuitive user experience, while preserving the characteristic MINI driving feeling in a modern format.” MINI’s entry into Pakistan is enabled through its long-standing partnership with Dewan Motors, the official importer of BMW Group vehicles in the country since 2004. With an established presence across key cities including Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad, Dewan Motors ensures a consistent premium customer experience aligned with global BMW Group standards. For Dewan Motors, the launch represents a strategic step in the development of the premium automotive segment. Zaeem Ul Haque, Director Operations, Dewan Motors said: “The launch goes beyond product introduction. It represents our commitment to delivering a premium and locally relevant customer experience built on long-term relationships, strong retail foundations and continuous market development.” This approach is reinforced by the introduction of BMW Group’s Retail.Next concept in Pakistan. The integrated BMW and MINI showroom in Karachi create a modern, customer-centric environment, combining digital touchpoints, personalized consultation and a seamless brand experience. Designed around interaction rather than traditional retail structures, it sets a new benchmark for premium automotive retail in the country. With its fully electric portfolio, distinctive design and strong digital focus, MINI enters Pakistan at a pivotal moment introducing a few forward-looking interpretation of urban mobility that is efficient, connected and future oriented.

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Budget 2026–27 Set to Cut Taxes on Auto Parts, Expected to Lower Car Prices in Pakistan

Web Desk / May 7, 2026

Car prices in Pakistan may decline in the coming months as the federal government prepares major tax reforms in the upcoming Budget 2026–27. Officials are reviewing proposals that could reduce duties on raw materials used in locally assembled vehicles and electric cars. Sources said the government aims to support the domestic auto industry by lowering production costs. This move could lead to more affordable vehicles for consumers if approved. Tax Relief on CKD Kits Under Review The government is considering reducing customs duties on completely knocked down CKD kits. Under the proposal, non localised parts may face a 5 percent duty, while localised components could be taxed at 10 percent. These changes aim to encourage local assembly and reduce dependency on imported finished vehicles. Industry experts believe this step could directly impact car prices in Pakistan by lowering manufacturing costs. Officials said the new measures will be part of the auto policy expected to take effect from July 1. The policy will also introduce incentives for local production and job creation in the automotive sector. Push for Local Manufacturing and Jobs The government plans to strengthen local manufacturing of auto parts. It also aims to create more employment opportunities for skilled workers in the auto industry. By encouraging domestic production, authorities hope to reduce reliance on imports and improve trade balance. This strategy is part of a broader effort to boost industrial growth in Pakistan. Focus on Electric and New Energy Vehicles The upcoming policy will also expand support for electric and new energy vehicles. Officials said the framework may include battery electric, hybrid, plug in hybrid, range extended, and fuel cell vehicles. These vehicles are expected to receive concessional tariffs under the new system. Locally assembled electric vehicles may also get priority over fully imported units. The government is also considering limited concessions for companies assembling electric bikes, rickshaws, and cars. Each firm may be allowed duty benefits on up to 100 vehicles, with the incentive available until June 30, 2027. Tariff Reforms Planned for Auto Sector In line with the National Tariff Policy, the government is reviewing major tariff reductions. Plans include eliminating Additional Customs Duty and reducing Regulatory Duty on auto imports. The average tariff on local vehicles is expected to stay below 6 percent. Authorities are also considering a gradual reduction in tariffs on fully imported petrol vehicles. These reforms aim to make the auto sector more competitive while supporting local production. Analysts say such steps could gradually bring down car prices in Pakistan over time. Industry Suggestions for EV Tax Structure The Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts and Accessories Manufacturers has proposed further incentives. The group suggested a 1 percent tax on battery electric vehicles. It also recommended around 9 percent tax on hybrid and plug in hybrid vehicles. Industry stakeholders believe these measures could accelerate adoption of cleaner vehicles while supporting local assembly. Government Holds Consultations With Stakeholders A consultative meeting was held a day earlier under the leadership of Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan. Representatives from the Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts and Accessories Manufacturers and the Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association attended the session. Participants discussed proposed duties on auto parts and the overall structure of the upcoming auto policy. Officials confirmed that final decisions will be made through consensus with industry input. Policy Aims to Strengthen Local Industry The government reiterated that the main goal of the policy is to strengthen domestic manufacturing and reduce import dependence. It also aims to build a more competitive and sustainable auto sector in Pakistan. If approved, the proposed tax relief and EV incentives could significantly influence car prices in Pakistan. Industry observers say the next budget will play a key role in shaping the future of the country’s automotive market.

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Chery Master Pakistan Signals New Product Expansion in Pakistan Following Strong Presence at Auto China 2026

Web Desk / May 7, 2026

Karachi, May 7: Chery Master Pakistan is evaluating to launch two to three future models for the local market, including the Tiggo 4 HEV, QQ BEV, and Tiggo V, products that reflect Chery’s broader focus on hybrid, electric and multi-purpose mobility solutions. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-imf-climate-funding-set-to-unlock-200-million-boost-for-green-economy/ Chery Master Pakistan, introduced locally by Master Auto Engineering, part of the Master Group with over 60 years of industrial and automotive legacy, has signalled the potential introduction of multiple new models in the local market following its strong participation at Auto China 2026, where the company engaged with global leadership and reviewed Chery’s next-generation product and technology roadmap. The direction is supported by Chery’s global plan to introduce 13 new models over the next two years across gasoline, hybrid and electric powertrains, spanning SUV, sedan, urban mobility and pickup segments. For Pakistan, these categories hold growing relevance as consumers increasingly seek fuel-efficient, practical and technology-driven vehicles amid rising fuel costs and changing mobility needs. Speaking on the company’s future direction, Samir Malik, CEO of Chery Master Pakistan, said “Pakistan remains an important growth market for Chery’s advanced mobility technologies, adding that the company is focused on evaluating products that match local driving conditions, consumer expectations and long-term mobility trends.” At Auto China 2026, Chery showcased the QQ BEV, a compact electric vehicle offering a range of up to 410 kilometres. The model is positioned as an affordable urban mobility solution, making it particularly relevant for congested cities such as Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad, where lower running costs, ease of movement and compact design are becoming more important for daily commuters. The Tiggo V concept, meanwhile, represents a versatile mobility platform combining SUV space, MPV practicality, and pickup-style utility. Its multi-purpose character aligns closely with Pakistan’s strong preference for family-oriented vehicles that can also support lifestyle, business and utility requirements. The Tiggo 4 HEV further expands Chery’s hybrid portfolio into a more accessible segment, potentially opening new opportunities in Pakistan’s compact SUV market. With hybrid technology gaining traction due to fuel economy benefits and limited charging infrastructure for full EVs, such products could play an important role in accelerating local NEV adoption. Chery currently operates in more than 130 countries with over 19 million global users, while one out of every four vehicles exported from China is a Chery, underscoring the company’s growing export leadership. In Pakistan, Chery Master Pakistan has established the largest locally assembled (CKD) plug-in hybrid SUV portfolios in the market. This includes the Tiggo 9 PHEV positioned as the first premium plug-in hybrid E-SUV, the new Tiggo 8 PHEV as the country’s only 7-seater plug-in hybrid D-SUV, and the newly introduced Tiggo 7 PHEV as a premium 5-seater C-segment SUV. Together, this lineup spans key SUV segments and reflects a deliberate strategy to make advanced hybrid technology accessible across different customer needs.

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Banks Stall PM’s Green Initiative as 91% of E-Bike Applications Rejected

Web Desk / May 7, 2026

In a significant setback to the Prime Minister’s green mobility initiative, commercial banks in Pakistan have rejected a staggering 91% of applications for subsidized electric bikes. Out of 44,689 applications forwarded to financial institutions, only 4,075 were approved, representing a meager 9% success rate. This lack of enthusiasm from the banking sector has forced the federal government to overhaul its strategy to meet the ambitious targets of the Pakistan Accelerated Vehicle Electrification (PAVE) program. Failure to Meet Annual Targets The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) was informed that the government is on track to miss its annual goal of distributing 116,000 electric bikes this fiscal year. Despite the imposition of a “climate support levy” of Rs2.5 per litre on petrol and diesel to fund this transition, the actual distribution remains abysmal. Currently, only 4.5% of the fiscal year’s target has been met. The poor response from banks has necessitated a pivot toward self-financing options and direct manufacturer-to-consumer subsidies to bypass traditional banking delays. Promoting Self-Financing and New Options To salvage the program, the government is now prioritizing a self-finance model where the role of banks is minimized. Under the revised policy, applicants can receive an electric vehicle directly from suppliers at a discounted rate, with the government providing a cost-sharing subsidy. In contrast to the low bank approval rate, the self-finance option has already shown a 99% success rate among initial applicants. The ECC has also introduced a specific scheme for government employees (BS-16 and below), allowing them to acquire bikes with a small upfront payment of Rs10,000 and interest-free installments.

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Pakistan Plans Export of Refurbished Used Cars to Boost Automotive Sector

Web Desk / May 6, 2026

The export of refurbished used cars is set to become a new focus for Pakistan as the government prepares a policy to import, refurbish and re export vehicles under the upcoming auto policy for 2026 to 2031. Officials said the initiative aims to boost exports, attract foreign investment and strengthen the automotive sector at a time of economic pressure. The proposal introduces a structured framework that allows licensed companies to bring used vehicles into Pakistan, refurbish them locally and ship them to international markets. Authorities have made it clear that these vehicles will not be allowed to enter the domestic market, ensuring that local industry dynamics remain unaffected. Policy Inspired by Global Trade Models The government has designed the plan based on successful international models such as the Jebel Ali system in Dubai. Officials believe this approach can help Pakistan integrate into the global automotive value chain and generate new revenue streams. The initiative has gained strong backing from the Special Investment Facilitation Council, which sees the export of refurbished used cars as a viable opportunity to generate millions in foreign exchange. This support comes at a critical time when Pakistan is facing challenges in increasing its export volume. Sources said the recent geopolitical developments, including tensions in the Gulf region, have further accelerated discussions around the policy. Policymakers now view the automotive export segment as a strategic avenue for economic stability. Consultations with Global Financial Institutions Underway Officials confirmed that the policy is currently under discussion with the International Monetary Fund. These consultations aim to ensure that the framework aligns with Pakistan’s broader economic commitments and fiscal targets. After completing these discussions, the government plans to present the policy to the federal cabinet for final approval. Authorities expect that the initiative will play a key role in improving Pakistan’s export performance in the coming years. Incentives to Attract Investment Under the proposed framework, companies will benefit from duty suspension incentives through the Export Facilitation Scheme. This measure aims to reduce initial costs and encourage businesses to invest in refurbishment facilities. Officials said the export of refurbished used cars will also create opportunities for technology transfer and skill development. By establishing modern refurbishment units, Pakistan can enhance its industrial capacity and generate employment. However, only registered companies will be allowed to operate under the scheme. Firms must be incorporated under the Companies Act and demonstrate strong financial and technical capabilities. They will also need to present detailed business plans outlining refurbishment processes and export strategies. Strict Regulatory Oversight in Place To maintain transparency and quality standards, companies must secure approvals from relevant ministries and register under the Export Facilitation Scheme. Additionally, their facilities must meet infrastructure requirements verified by the Engineering Development Board. Authorities have also introduced strict timelines for compliance. Vehicles imported under the scheme must be re exported within nine months of arrival. Limited extensions may be granted in exceptional cases, but only with valid justification and additional financial guarantees. If companies fail to meet the deadline, the Federal Board of Revenue will take action under existing laws. This enforcement mechanism aims to prevent misuse of the scheme and ensure that the policy delivers its intended outcomes. A Strategic Push for Export Growth The export of refurbished used cars represents a strategic shift in Pakistan’s economic planning. By focusing on value addition rather than simple exports, the government hopes to unlock new growth opportunities. Experts believe that the success of the policy will depend on effective implementation and investor confidence. If executed properly, the initiative could position Pakistan as a competitive player in the global automotive refurbishment market.

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