Govt's plan to distribute Chinese-made electric bikes, loaders among youth has been hailed as a game-changer for Pakistan’s urban transportation, especially in cities like Gwadar and Quetta. 

The government on Saturday unveiled plans to distribute over 100,000 Chinese-made electric bikes and more than 300,000 electric loaders and rickshaws among youth aimed at reducing fuel imports, protecting the environment, and boosting employment.

Chairing a policy meeting here, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the program is a critical step toward economic self-reliance and environmental responsibility. “Electric vehicles will help us save billions in foreign exchange, promote local manufacturing, and offer new livelihood avenues,” he said.

The EV scheme, which prominently features Chinese-manufactured technology, is part of Pakistan’s transition toward cleaner energy sources, an effort complementing CPEC’s green infrastructure projects, Gwadar Pro reported.

Key highlights of the initiative include, free e-bikes for high-performing students from all boards, including federal institutions, subsidised e-loaders and rickshaws for unemployed youth to promote self-employment, a 25% quota for women, ensuring gender inclusivity and Balochistan’s allocation increased to 10%, in line with the government’s commitment to equitable development and provincial empowerment.

The meeting also discussed third-party audits to ensure transparency, strict compliance with safety standards, and a public awareness campaign.

Officials said that four new battery manufacturing firms, including Chinese technology partners, are already setting up operations in Pakistan, promising job creation and technology transfer.

The EV initiative is being hailed as a game-changer for Pakistan’s urban transportation, especially in cities like Gwadar and Quetta, where China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)’s logistical upgrades and energy reforms are already paving the way for next-generation mobility solutions.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China