Govt to set up 40 EV charging stations on motorways

The government has approved the installation of 40 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations along national motorways as part of a comprehensive initiative to enhance EV infrastructure in Pakistan.

The cost for charging will be set at PKR 39.75 per unit.

This development follows a meeting regarding the national EV policy, during which the Pakistan Banks Association (PBA), led by Chairman Zafar Masud, presented a financing plan aimed at stimulating demand for two- and three-wheeler EVs.

Masud proposed a financing rate of Kibor plus 3% to encourage bank participation but suggested capping the rate at Kibor plus 2.5%.

Additionally, the chair discussed a proposed debt-to-equity ratio of 80:20, recommending a more conservative ratio of 70:30 in line with State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) guidelines.

The National Highway Authority (NHA) has identified 40 potential locations for the charging stations along motorways stretching from Karachi to Peshawar, ensuring that stations are spaced a minimum of 120 kilometers apart.

Progress on the EV policy is ongoing, with the Industries Secretary noting efforts to draft regulations for charging stations, establish power tariffs, and incentivize the adoption of two- and three-wheeler EVs.

The Revenue Mobilisation, Investment and Trade (ReMIT) project of the Commerce Ministry has also committed to providing expert assistance in policy development.