The government’s efforts to replace petrol-powered motorcycles with electric two-wheelers face major regulatory and industrial challenges, including weak battery standards, fragmented oversight, and limited localization.
The concerns were raised during a meeting of a subcommittee of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Industries, summoned by Dr Mehreen Bhutto. Lawmakers were told that Pakistan still lacks a dedicated regulator for electric motorcycles and a comprehensive policy governing lithium-ion batteries.
Too Many Departments, No Single Regulator
According to a report by Dawn, Dr Mehreen Bhutto questioned the fragmented regulatory system, noting that several ministries and departments oversee different parts of the electric motorcycle industry.
The Engineering Development Board issues manufacturing licenses, while the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority certifies electric motorcycles and batteries. Charging infrastructure falls under the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority, while provincial authorities regulate vehicles operating on public roads. Imports of lithium-ion batteries and used cells entering as scrap are handled by Customs and the Ministry of Commerce.
The division of responsibility means no single authority oversees the full lifecycle of an electric motorcycle, from manufacturing and certification to registration and battery disposal.
Battery Quality Raises Ownership Concerns
Dr Bhutto expressed concern that some manufacturers were installing low-quality batteries that could become unusable within two to three years. Replacement batteries may cost buyers up to Rs. 90,000, significantly weakening the financial case for switching from petrol to electric motorcycles.
Representing electric motorcycle manufacturers, Dr Muhammad Amjad told the committee that EDB manufacturing licenses do not specifically require lithium-ion batteries. This allows some companies to use cheaper lead-acid dry batteries instead.
Grey Market for Used Lithium Cells
Dr Muhammad Amjad also linked high import duties on lithium-ion batteries to the growth of an informal market.
According to him, unlicensed operators refurbish lithium cells imported as scrap and sell them locally without adequate testing or regulatory oversight. The absence of recognized testing facilities and a clear complaint mechanism leaves buyers exposed to poor-quality or potentially unsafe battery packs.
Localization Remains Limited
Another manufacturer, Shahid Bajwa, told the committee that the industry lacked a mechanism to encourage local production of batteries and electric motorcycle components.
He also questioned where manufacturers or consumers could report illegal battery producers, highlighting the absence of a clearly defined enforcement channel.
Pakistan remains heavily dependent on imported lithium-ion batteries, leaving electric motorcycle prices and repair costs exposed to currency movements, import duties and supply disruptions.
New Battery Policy Under Preparation
EDB Chief Executive Officer Hammad Mansoor informed the committee that a new battery policy was being finalized and was expected to address several of the concerns raised during the meeting.
Participants also called on the PSQCA to strengthen its technical capacity and establish dedicated laboratories for testing lithium batteries.
Pakistan’s electric motorcycle market may continue to expand as fuel costs push commuters towards cheaper alternatives. However, subsidies and new models alone will not build buyer confidence. Clear battery standards, enforceable warranties, proper testing facilities, and a single accountable regulatory structure will be essential for making e-bikes dependable long-term transport rather than a risky purchase.
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