Rising fuel costs drive shift to e-bikes; traders seek conducive policies

RAWALPINDI, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 4th Jun, 2026) Rising fuel prices and increasing environmental awareness are accelerating the shift towards electric mobility in Rawalpindi, with consumers increasingly opting for electric bikes as a cost-effective alternative.

Dealers in Rawalpindi reported supply shortages, with delivery times increasing as orders continue to rise. Some buyers are booking their choiced e-bike in advance and many others are purchasing directly from city's various hotspots.

Demand for e-bikes has surged dramatically, with monthly sales crossing 70,000 units per day across the country, said an independent survey, putting pressure on manufacturers and distributors.

President Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) Usman Shaukat, talking to APP, said electric vehicles (EVs) play a key role in reducing the country’s fuel import bill and dependence on petroleum products.

"National fuel bill had increased significantly due to rising global oil prices, EVs and hybrid vehicles had helped reduce fuel dependency in recent years", he said.

Usman Shaukat said that e-bikes and other EVs offer substantial savings to consumers as compared to petrol-powered vehicles, particularly benefiting students and middle-income groups due to lower daily and monthly running costs.

He said he had recently discussed EV policy with the Prime Minister and proposed a two-tier policy to promote electric mobility.

"Under the proposed policy, small electric vehicles including two-wheelers (e-bikes) and compact cars should be exempted from taxes to protect middle-class users, while taxes could be imposed on high-end EVs", he said while sharing details of proposed EVs tax policy.

Usman highlighted that local production of EVs had already begun and should be encouraged through incentives and tax exemptions.

"What's is required is the conducive environment that is reduced-tax-driven, ease of doing business and encouraging steps from tue government end to promot EVs industry in the country", he added.

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EVs, particularly e-bikes have changed the commute landscape nit only in urban bit also in rural areas.

A university student, Muhammad Abdullah, appreciated the growing availability of e-bikes, saying they provide affordable transportation, reduce fuel expenses and are environmentally friendly.

Another student, Maira, noted that e-bikes are particularly beneficial for female students as they are easy to drive, cost-effective, safer for short commutes and provide independent mobility.

Ayesh Akram travels from a rural area of tue Federal capital to take heruniversity classes in Rawalpindi.

"I am much satisfied with e-bike as it is cost effective, peaceful ride and an independent source for me", she said.

Industry experts believe the market may stabilize gradually as new assembly lines and government incentives support production.

Asif Malik, a Rawalpindi based businessman and analyst noted that solarization and EVs have collectively overcome energy challenges facing Pakistan.

"We need to expedite the technology shifting by supporting manufacturing and assembling industry" he urged the government in a brief interaction with APP.

Highlighting he youth as major population cluster of the country, Asif hinted that investment target is 60% of the total population which is less than or equal to 30 years of age.

"We can easily calculate the economic impact if the targeted population is equipped with e-bikes", he added urging for EVs support economic policies.

The stakeholders emphasized the need for a balanced policy framework to sustain growth in the EV sector and maximize its economic and environmental benefits.

APP/395