In this blog, we will explore the transition from petrol-powered two-wheelers to electric ones in Pakistan, examining the challenges and shortcomings, as well as the progress and achievements in the sector. To provide insights, we interviewed various electric scooter dealers and experts.
From Petrol to Plug: The Rise of Electric Scooters in Pakistan
As the global automobile industry makes significant strides toward sustainable energy solutions, local manufacturers of cars and two-wheelers in Pakistan have started advancing in the field of electrification. While electric cars remain a luxury for the upper class due to their high price range, electric scooters and bikes have just confined to middle-class salaried individuals, who are increasingly affected by rising fuel prices.
Sales Trends in EV Scooters Market
The sales of electric scooters in Pakistan have seen both increase and decrease over time. Dealers have differing opinions on this, with some claiming that the market is growing, while others believe that sales are still slow.
According to a dealer, “At the start, the electric two-wheeler market faced minimal competition, with many local companies simply rebranding Chinese-made bikes and selling them at inflated prices, often Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 100,000 above their actual value.” However, with the arrival of more brands and better-quality products, this trend is gradually shifting.
Challenges Faced by EV Scooters Owners
Despite the potential of electric scooters, there are several challenges that owners face, including:
- High Price Margins: The price of electric scooters remains relatively high compared to their petrol-powered counterparts. This remains a barrier for many potential buyers.
- Lack of Charging Infrastructure: One of the major hurdles for electric vehicles in Pakistan is the lack of a widespread and accessible charging infrastructure. Without enough charging stations, the practicality of owning an electric scooter is limited.
- After-Sales Services: One major concern raised by many electric two-wheeler owners is the poor after-sales service. Official workshops of the companies charge exorbitant fees for even minor repairs, which has led to dissatisfaction among customers. Furthermore, once the initial sale is made, dealers often become unresponsive when a customer needs service or repairs.
- Gender-Specific Designs: Many electric scooters are designed with female riders in mind, which restricts male riders from purchasing them. The introduction of male-friendly designs, such as Evee’s updated scooter models with better height and ground clearance, is a welcome development that caters to a broader customer base.
- Incorrect Speed and Range Claims: Several electric scooter models have been reported to underperform in terms of speed and range compared to the manufacturer’s claims. This has raised concerns among potential buyers.
Social Media & Digitalization – The Role
In today’s digital age, social media has played a crucial role in educating consumers and keeping companies in check. As buyers increasingly use platforms to expose fraudulent activities or poor customer service, electric scooter brands are becoming more cautious about their practices.
For instance, if a dealer cheats a customer, the buyer can now easily make a video and share it online, forcing the company to take action to protect its reputation.
Growing Competition: What’s Changing?
The entry of new brands and competition in the electric two-wheeler market has had a significant impact on prices and quality. For instance, another dealer informed, “United Motors recently reduced the prices of its e-bikes by Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 50,000, triggering what many expect to be a “price war.” As a result, consumers can now expect to receive better-quality products at more affordable prices.
Evee, one of the prominent players in the electric scooter market, has shown notable improvements. The Evee Gen Z model, for example, now comes with an upgraded 32 Ampere battery, compared to its previous 23 Ampere battery, without an increase in price. Additionally, the company has increased the warranty period by 8 months, further enhancing the value proposition for buyers.
Electric Scooters – Price War & Impact
As the competition heats up, the price of electric scooters is expected to decrease even further in the coming years. There is no indication that prices will increase anytime soon, and with low registration charges, electric scooters are becoming more affordable for the average consumer.
Key Considerations While Buying an Electric Scooter
When purchasing an electric scooter, it’s important to consider the following factors to ensure a good investment:
- Battery Quality: Check the battery’s brand, capacity (amperes), and whether it’s from a reliable manufacturer.
- Motor Power: The wattage of the motor determines the scooter’s performance. Higher wattage usually means better performance, especially on inclines.
- Controller Type: The type of controller used in the scooter affects its efficiency and performance.
- Warranty: A longer warranty period ensures peace of mind and better support in case of issues.
- After-Sales Services: Always choose a brand known for its reliable after-sales service, as this can significantly impact your overall experience as an electric scooter owner.
Electric Scooters vs. Conventional Motorbikes
Electric scooters are not only more environmentally friendly, but they also come with additional safety features that conventional motorbikes lack.
These features include alloy rims, disc brakes, tubeless tires, digital meters, USB ports, and luggage storage under the seat. While conventional electric motorcycle leads the market only with its traditional design, even their after-sales services are often criticized. Moreover, the price of these electric motorcycles is significantly higher than that of e-scooters.
Despite the challenges faced by electric scooter manufacturers and buyers in Pakistan, the future of electric two-wheelers looks promising. As competition increases, prices will continue to decrease, and the availability of better-quality products will rise.
Moreover, with the growing awareness among consumers and improvements in after-sales service, the electric scooter market is expected to thrive in the coming years. If the government and dealerships continue to support the sector, the electrification of two-wheelers will become a sustainable and mainstream alternative to petrol-powered vehicles in Pakistan.