Electric bikes are gaining popularity but costly batteries, load-shedding and poor charging remain barriers
LAHORE:
Electric bikes and scooters are becoming increasingly common on Lahore’s roads. Office-going women, university students, and food delivery riders are adopting them as a cost-effective alternative to petrol-powered transport. While rising fuel prices have boosted interest in electric mobility, expensive batteries, limited charging infrastructure, load-shedding, and high upfront costs continue to hinder wider adoption.
Fakhra Batool, a Lahore resident, bought an electric scooter a few months ago to avoid rising petrol and rickshaw expenses. Batool shared that she previously spent thousands of rupees each month on transportation, while her current electricity costs are much lower. However, she noted that replacing the battery would be difficult because of its high price.
Ahmed Hassan of Gulberg purchased an electric bike through a government subsidy scheme. According to him, his monthly fuel expenses dropped from around Rs12,000 to about Rs2,500 for electricity and charging. “However, load-shedding can make charging difficult, raising concerns about battery range during longer trips,” said Hassan.
The main difference between electric and petrol motorcycles lies in purchase and operating costs. A standard petrol motorcycle in Pakistan typically costs between Rs150,000 and Rs160,000, while a quality electric bike generally costs Rs250,000 or more. Although government subsidies reduce prices, electric bikes remain more expensive to buy.
However, operating costs are significantly lower. Users report spending only a fraction of what they would otherwise pay for petrol, making electric bikes increasingly attractive for people who travel regularly.
According to Sarim Zia, Research Assistant at the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), Pakistan’s large motorcycle population means two- and three-wheelers will play a key role in the country’s electric mobility transition. “Rising petrol prices are encouraging people to consider alternatives, while public awareness campaigns could further increase demand,” said Zia.
Dr Fahim Gohar Awan, Chairman of the Department of Electrical Engineering at the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore, noted that successful adoption of electric vehicles requires more than selling bikes. “Local battery manufacturing, charging infrastructure, skilled workers, and a reliable electricity supply are all necessary for long-term growth,” said Dr Awan.
Dr Kiran Siraj, a faculty member at Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), felt that subsidies alone are not enough. “There is a need for affordable loans and leasing options for middle-income consumers. The shortage of charging stations and battery-swapping facilities remains a major obstacle to consumer confidence,” said Dr Siraj.
Iftikhar Hussain, a mechanic servicing electric bikes in Township, Lahore, revealed that the number of customers seeking repairs and maintenance has increased several times over the past two years. However, spare-parts shortages and complaints regarding battery warranties remain common.
Ziauddin, an electric bike dealer in Lahore, shared that interest among young people, women, and food delivery riders has risen significantly. “Despite subsidies, prices remain beyond the reach of many buyers, and most customers ask about battery life and replacement costs before making a purchase,” he said.
Hidayatur Rehman, Director of Sales and Marketing at EVEON, noted that most lithium batteries and key components used in Pakistan are imported. “Local production of lithium batteries could reduce electric bike prices by 50 to 60 per cent,” said Rehman.
Experts believe electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular in Pakistan because of their lower operating costs. However, expensive batteries, load-shedding, limited charging facilities, and high purchase prices remain significant challenges. Addressing these issues will be essential for the wider adoption of electric bikes across the country.
