NA Panel Highlights Major Hurdles to Pakistan’s Shift to E-Bikes

Pakistan still lacks a dedicated regulatory authority for electric motorcycles, while the absence of a comprehensive lithium battery policy has allowed substandard batteries to enter the market, a parliamentary panel was told on Monday.

During a meeting of a sub-committee of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Industries, lawmakers expressed concern over the fragmented regulatory framework governing the e-motorcycle sector.

Officials said multiple ministries and departments oversee different aspects of manufacturing, quality standards, charging infrastructure, battery imports and vehicle regulation.

Committee convener Dr Mehreen Bhutto warned that weak oversight has allowed some manufacturers to use low quality batteries that become unusable within two to three years, with replacement batteries costing up to Rs. 90,000.

Representatives of the e-motorcycle industry said high import duties on lithium-ion batteries have encouraged a grey market, where unlicensed operators refurbish imported battery cells and sell them without proper regulation. They also called for measures to promote local manufacturing of batteries and components.

The committee urged stakeholders to submit recommendations to improve safety standards, while Engineering Development Board Chief Executive Officer Hammad Mansoor said the government is finalizing a new battery policy to address many of the industry’s concerns.