Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant BYD is planning to launch its first locally assembled car in Pakistan by July or August 2026. This move aims to meet the increasing demand for electric and plug-in hybrid cars in the region.
According to Reports, BYD is expanding internationally as competition in China becomes tougher. The new assembly plant in Pakistan is part of a joint venture between BYD and Mega Motor Company, which is owned by Pakistani utility Hub Power. The plant has been under construction near Karachi since April.
What the Plant Will Do
Danish Khaliq, Vice President of Sales and Strategy at BYD Pakistan, said the plant will start by assembling vehicles using imported parts, while some non-electric parts will be made in Pakistan. The cars will first be sold in Pakistan, with a possibility of exporting to nearby countries that also drive on the right-hand side, depending on shipping costs.
Initially, the plant will be able to produce 25,000 cars per year working two shifts a day. Khaliq didn’t give an exact timeline for when full production will begin.
Growing EV Market in Pakistan
Khaliq believes the EV and plug-in hybrid market in Pakistan will grow 3 to 4 times in 2025, compared to the 1,000 units expected in 2024. BYD is aiming for 30-35% of this growing market.
Read more: Tesla Model Y Launches in India with 622 KM Range & Smart Features
Launching New Models
As part of its plans, BYD will also launch its Shark 6 plug-in hybrid pickup truck in Pakistan. The pickup and SUV segment is heating up, with Chinese brands like MG and Haval also entering the market.
Also See: China EV Market: Tesla Sales Jump 145% in a Week, BYD Drops 12%
Government Support
Since charging stations are still limited in Pakistan, plug-in hybrids (which can also run on fuel) are more practical. To boost EV use, the government cut electricity costs for EV chargers by 45% in January, encouraging more people to set up private charging stations.
