Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday directed officials to develop a comprehensive national strategy to make electric vehicles (EVs) widely accessible, particularly to students, unemployed individuals, and low-income groups. Chairing a policy meeting in Islamabad, he emphasized that promoting EVs would reduce Pakistan’s fuel import bill by billions, help tackle climate change, and drive local industry growth.
As part of the initiative, the federal government and educational boards will distribute free electric bikes to top-performing students, beginning at the intermediate level. A 25% quota is reserved for women, and provincial quotas will be population-based, with Balochistan’s share increased by 10% to address regional equity. This move is designed to motivate students and promote eco-friendly mobility in younger generations.
For unemployed citizens, the scheme includes easy access to electric rickshaws and loaders, enabling self-employment opportunities across urban and rural areas. The government will offer low-cost loans and flexible payment plans to ensure affordability. PM Shehbaz highlighted the importance of supporting economically weaker groups in accessing these benefits.
To support the EV sector, the Prime Minister instructed officials to create a complete EV ecosystem—from local vehicle production to battery manufacturing and maintenance infrastructure. The plan is expected to attract at least four new battery manufacturers, generating fresh investments, industrial expansion, and job creation.
The PM also ordered a public awareness campaign to promote the scheme, ensure transparency via third-party validation, and guarantee high-quality, safety-compliant vehicles. With over 100,000 e-bikes and 3,000 electric rickshaws/loaders ready for rollout, Shehbaz called for the immediate implementation of the policy to meet urgent energy and economic challenges.