BYD to Assemble Electric Vehicles in Pakistan by 2026

Leading Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, BYD, intends to launch its inaugural Pakistan-assembled vehicle by July or August 2026. This strategic move aims to leverage the increasing desire for both electric and plug-in hybrid automobiles within the region, according to a company representative.

As the world’s foremost EV producer, BYD is aggressively growing its operations beyond China, a market characterized by fierce pricing competition. The establishment of a plant in Pakistan caters to the escalating demand from developing nations, while also capitalizing on incentives provided by the Pakistani government.

Since April, construction has been underway near Karachi, facilitated through a collaboration between BYD and Mega Motor Company, a division of the Pakistani utility provider, Hub Power. Danish Khaliq, the Vice President of Sales and Strategy at BYD Pakistan, disclosed this information.

Initially, the plant will be equipped to produce 25,000 units annually, operating on a double-shift basis, Khaliq stated. Specific timelines for achieving maximum production capacity or the commencement of full-scale manufacturing were not provided.

The facility will begin by assembling imported components, incorporating some domestically sourced non-electric parts. Khaliq mentioned the initial focus will be on serving the local market, with potential exports to right-hand drive countries contingent on shipping expenses and overall economic feasibility.

“We anticipate that demand within Pakistan will adequately meet our production capabilities,” he affirmed.

BYD initiated the delivery of imported EVs to Pakistan in March.

While the precise sales figures were not disclosed, Khaliq noted that the sales of several hundred vehicles surpassed internal projections by 30%.

Khaliq projects a three to fourfold expansion in the market size for EVs and plug-in hybrid vehicles in Pakistan in 2025, growing from approximately 1,000 units in 2024. BYD aims to secure a 30-35% market share within this segment.

Financial data from a HUBCO filing indicates that BYD Pakistan realized profits of approximately 444 million rupees ($1.56 million) during the quarter ending March 2025.

BYD is set to introduce its Shark 6 plug-in hybrid pickup truck in Pakistan this Friday. Currently, China’s MG offers a PHEV SUV, and Haval is also preparing to enter this market sector.

Plug-in hybrids present a viable alternative in Pakistan, given the limited availability of charging stations for fully electric vehicles.

To stimulate EV adoption and encourage the development of private charging infrastructure, the government reduced electricity tariffs for chargers by 45% in January.