How to apply for an E-bike under govt’s new subsidized scheme

The government of Pakistan has approved a special subsidy scheme to promote electric bikes and rickshaws across the country.

This move is aimed at reducing fuel use and supporting eco-friendly transport. The plan was approved by the Economic Coordination Committee and is being managed by the Ministry of Industries.

For this scheme, the government has set aside Rs 9 billion in the 2025-26 budget. It will roll out in two phases. In the first phase, the government will give subsidies for 40,000 electric bikes and 10,000 electric rickshaws. Later, 760,000 more bikes and 2,170 more rickshaws will be included in the second phase.

How the Loan Will Work

• The maximum loan amount is Rs 200,000 for e-bikes and Rs 880,000 for e-rickshaws

• Loan time: 2 years for bikes, 3 years for rickshaws

• Interest (markup) will be fully paid by the government

• Borrowers don’t have to pay any markup

• The government will also contribute equity: Rs 50,000 for bikes and Rs 200,000 for rickshaws

• The loan will follow an 80:20 debt-to-equity ratio

• A 20% guarantee will be provided to banks in case of defaults

• Both Islamic and conventional loan options will be available

Who Can Apply?

• Pakistani citizens aged 18–65 years for electric bikes

• Citizens aged 21–65 years for electric rickshaws

• People from all regions, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir, can apply

• 10% quota is reserved for Balochistan

• 25% of bikes are reserved for women

• 10% of bikes are for commercial use

• Rickshaws are mainly for individual users, but if not used, 30% may go to fleet operators

How to Apply

• The government will advertise publicly when applications open

• If more people apply than the quota, a digital ballot will decide who gets selected

• Each person can apply for only one vehicle

• Applicants will choose from approved electric models that meet safety and quality standards

• The process will be managed on a fully digital platform

• Vehicles will have official branding

• Minor changes (like adjusting quotas) can be made by the Steering Committee within the set budget

Quality and Transparency

• Only manufacturers shortlisted by the Engineering Development Board (EDB) can take part

• The scheme will be audited by the Auditor General of Pakistan and third-party auditors

• The goal is to ensure transparency and quality in the distribution of electric bikes and rickshaws

This scheme is a big step toward cleaner and more affordable transport in Pakistan, and it aims to support both individuals and the local economy.

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