In the last two years, electric vehicles (EVs) have become more popular. A well-known EV brand called Metro was introduced in Pakistan in 2022. Electric scooters cost less to run than petrol bikes. They are also usually cheaper to buy than motorcycles that run on fuel. Now, let’s look at why electric scooters are becoming more popular in the Pakistani market.
Government tax incentives on EVS scooters
The government in Pakistan is supporting the use of electric scooters by not imposing taxes on them. People also don’t need to pay for registration to get license plates for these scooters, so they can be driven on the roads for free. The demand for batteries worldwide is expected to increase in the coming years. Battery shipments were 94% higher in 2021, and graphene batteries are seen as the future.
Electric scooters are receiving special attention because of tax benefits and incentives. If electric vehicles (EVs) are made in Pakistan (CKDs), they will be sold with only a 1% sales tax, making them cheaper for buyers. This is being done to encourage more people to buy electric bikes in Pakistan.
Factors Responsible For The Rise Of Electric
There are some factors behind the rise of these electric scooters in Pakistan. These are as follows.
- Environmental Concerns
- Rising Fuel Prices
Environmental Concerns
Traditional cars emit harmful pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide. Electric scooters, on the other hand, don’t produce these harmful substances, so they help keep the air clean. They also don’t make as much noise as motorcycles with engines, so they don’t add to noise pollution. Because of these benefits and advancements in technology, more people in Pakistan are expected to start using electric scooters in the future.
Rising Fuel Prices
The increasing prices of fuel have led more people to want electric bikes. Fluctuating fuel prices make it hard for motorcycle owners to manage their expenses. Electric vehicles, on the other hand, are cheaper to use. They run on batteries that can be charged using renewable energy sources, which makes them more convenient for owners. Plus, electric scooter owners don’t have to worry about maintenance costs like changing engine oil or fixing exhaust systems, which saves them money in the long run.
For example:
A petrol bike, such as the Honda CG 125, typically travels 45 kilometers on one liter of petrol. With the current petrol price in Pakistan at Rs 268, the cost per kilometer for running this bike would be Rs 5.95.
On the other hand, electric scooters like the Metro T9 have batteries ranging from 25 to 50 Ah and motors with 800 to 1800 watts. They usually have a range of 60 to 90 kilometers on a full charge. Charging an average scooter fully takes about 1.5 units of electricity. With the cost of one unit of electricity at Rs 60, the price per kilometer for running the scooter would be Rs 1.28.
Addition Of Features
New features have made electric scooters more popular in Pakistan. They now have better battery efficiency, longer range, and faster charging, attracting a wider audience. Plus, the lower cost of batteries compared to fuel is driving the trend of electric scooters in Pakistan.
Global Trend
Electric scooters are a global trend, reflecting the need for sustainable transportation. People everywhere want cleaner commuting options, and electric scooters fit the bill perfectly.
Urban Congestion
Major Pakistani cities suffer from heavy traffic and air pollution. Electric scooters offer a solution by producing zero emissions and helping reduce congestion.
Local Manufacturing
The ability to manufacture electric scooters locally is boosting their popularity in Pakistan. Local production creates job opportunities, stimulates the economy, and lowers production costs.
Conclusion
Electric scooters have a bright future in Pakistan. This is because the government supports them, technology is getting better, and more people care about the environment. Electric scooters are getting better with new features, making them more popular. Also, the world is moving towards greener transportation, and electric scooters help with city traffic. Making them in Pakistan also helps to keep costs down. As more people want cleaner and cheaper ways to get around, electric scooters will become even more important in Pakistan. They’ll help make transportation cleaner and the country greener.