In a move to foster a sustainable transport system, the Prime Minister has established a policy committee aimed at promoting the local manufacture and early adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs), including New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), in Pakistan. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance energy efficiency and transition to cleaner technologies within the automotive sector.

The steering committee will be composed of key government figures, including the Federal Ministers for Industries and Production, Finance and Revenue, Power, and Petroleum. It will also include the Coordinator to the PM for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, the Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, the Secretary of the Ministry of Industries and Production, the Chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue, the Chairman of the Pakistan Banks Association, and other co-opted members as needed.

Committee’s Terms of Reference:

• Develop a comprehensive policy to promote local manufacturing and early adoption of EVs and NEVs, considering international best practices and local needs.
• Create a nationwide plan for the rapid deployment of charging stations, including fast-charging infrastructure, at strategic locations on highways and in urban centers, with support from Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and the National Highway Authority (NHA).
• Oversee the transition of conventional vehicles to EVs within the Federal Government.
• Recommend appropriate tariff structures for charging stations and a robust tariff and duty framework to encourage early adoption and local manufacturing of EVs.
• Provide specific recommendations to align national climate change goals, focusing on reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy in transportation.
• Promote public awareness campaigns highlighting the benefits of EVs, their environmental impact, and long-term cost savings.
• Develop a comprehensive financial structure for demand incentivization through federal budget grants and collaborate with provincial governments, as well as the governments of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, to build synergies.

The committee is tasked with regularly updating the Prime Minister on its progress and is expected to submit its final recommendations by the end of November. The Ministry of Industries and Production will notify the steering committee, organize periodic meetings for the Prime Minister’s information, and provide necessary secretarial support.