NA panel flags key hurdles to e-bike rollout in Pakistan

Pakistan's ambitious plan to transition from petrol-powered motorcycles to electric two-wheelers is encountering substantial obstacles, primarily due to a fragmented regulatory landscape and a lack of specialized oversight.

A sub-committee of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Industries was informed that Pakistan lacks a dedicated regulatory authority for e-motorcycles. This absence has allowed for the widespread sale of substandard lithium batteries, exacerbated by the import of used batteries as scrap. The committee expressed concern that multiple ministries and departments are involved in overseeing different aspects of the sector, leading to a lack of cohesive regulation.

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Unlike conventional petrol-powered motorcycles, electric two-wheelers pose unique safety risks if batteries and components fail.

Lawmakers were told that manufacturing licenses are issued by one body, quality standards are certified by another, and charging infrastructure development falls under a third. The issue of battery safety is paramount, with concerns raised about manufacturers using low-quality batteries that fail within a few years, necessitating costly replacements. High import duties on lithium-ion batteries have also fueled a grey market, where unlicensed operators sell refurbished cells.

Industry representatives pointed to the absence of a mechanism to promote the localization of components and manufacturing. They questioned where to report illegal battery manufacturers. The committee stressed the need for the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority to enhance its technical capacity and establish dedicated lithium battery testing laboratories, acknowledging the unique safety risks associated with electric two-wheelers if batteries and components fail.

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Besides, if we want to report illegal battery manufacturers, is there any forum where we can lodge such a complaint?