In a surprising and refreshing move, Sazgar Engineering Works Limited, the assembler and distributor of Haval vehicles in Pakistan, has taken a bold step that breaks the conventional industry norm: no price hike, even in the face of the newly imposed New Energy Vehicles Adoption Levy (NEV Levy) under the 2025–26 Federal Budget.
Surprising Move
According to an official announcement by Sazgar, the company has decided to absorb the NEV Levy themselves instead of transferring the burden to customers. The final prices of all Haval vehicles will remain unchanged. Interestingly, company officials revealed that they have slightly reduced the ex-factory prices and internally adjusted the NEV Levy within the overall cost structure, ensuring the retail price stays the same for buyers.
This is a rare and commendable move in a market where price increases have become a routine response to any change in tax or policy. It’s a clear signal of Sazgar’s customer-centric approach and a strategic attempt to retain its competitive edge.
The Competiton
This decision becomes even more interesting when viewed in the context of the fiercely competitive hybrid SUV segment in Pakistan. The hybrid war began when Haval launched the H6 HEV, which quickly gained popularity and gave rivals like the Kia Sportage HEV and Hyundai Tucson HEV a tough time.
In response:
- Kia launched a newer version of the Sportage L HEV.
- Hyundai followed up with an updated Tucson HEV.
- Haval continued to upgrade its offerings to stay ahead.
Now, with the NEV Levy in effect, most automakers are gearing up for price hikes, and Kia Lucky Motors has already revised its prices upward. However, Sazgar’s choice to hold the line on pricing could be a move to maintain the competition as Haval H6 HEV price is slightly higher then its rival Sportage L HEV.
Comparing the Competition
Here’s a quick look at how the current pricing compares:
- Kia Sportage HEV – Rs. 11,599,000
- Haval H6 HEV – Rs. 11,749,000
- Hyundai Tucson HEV (Base Variant) – Rs. 10,999,000
Even though the Haval H6 HEV is slightly more expensive than the Sportage HEV, Sazgar’s price freeze may give it an edge, especially for customers weighing value, features, and brand trust. On the other hand, Hyundai Tucson HEV’s base variant remains the most affordable, and with enough room in its price tag , Hyundai can still adjust for the NEV Levy without scaring off potential buyers — a smart position to be in.
Sazgar has not just made a pricing decision; they’ve made a marketing statement. This step not only wins customer trust but also puts pressure on competitors to reconsider their pricing strategies. In an era where inflation and taxes are pushing car ownership further out of reach for many Pakistanis, such a move can revive consumer confidence and reshape buying behavior in the hybrid SUV segment.
Now all eyes are on Hyundai — will they absorb the NEV Levy too, or follow Kia’s path? Let us know in the comments: Which hybrid SUV would you choose now and why?
