China’s BYD is set to start assembling its first electric car in Pakistan by July or August 2026, in response to the growing demand for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles in the region. This move is part of BYD’s strategic expansion in the Asia-Pacific market, following the company’s entrance into the Pakistani vehicle market last year.
According to a report by Reuters, BYD Pakistan sales and strategy vice president, Danish Khaliq, disclosed that the assembly plant, currently being constructed near Karachi in collaboration with Mega Motor Company, a subsidiary of Pakistani utility Hub Power, will have an initial production capacity of 25,000 units annually on a double shift schedule.
The plant will initially focus on assembling imported parts and locally producing non-electric components. While the primary target is the domestic market, there is potential for exporting to other right-hand drive countries in the region.
BYD has already begun delivering imported electric vehicles in Pakistan since March, exceeding internal sales targets by 30%. The market for EVs and plug-in hybrid cars in Pakistan is expected to grow significantly, with Khaliq projecting a three to fourfold increase by 2025 from around 1,000 units sold last year. BYD aims to capture a 30-35% market share in this segment.
In the first quarter of this year, BYD Pakistan reported a profit of approximately PKR444m ($1.56m), according to a HUBCO filing. The upcoming launch of BYD’s Shark 6 plug-in hybrid pickup truck is anticipated to further boost the company’s presence in the Pakistani market.
The Pakistani government is actively promoting EV adoption by offering a 45% reduction in power tariffs for chargers and encouraging the establishment of private charging stations to address the current lack of infrastructure for all-electric vehicles.
In conclusion, BYD’s plans to assemble electric cars in Pakistan signify a significant step towards meeting the increasing demand for eco-friendly vehicles in the region. With a focus on local production and strategic partnerships, BYD is well-positioned to make a mark in the Pakistani automotive market and contribute to the country’s transition towards sustainable transportation.
