Pakistan's SUV Market Shifts to PHEVs
Analysis based on 7 articles · First reported Mar 19, 2026 · Last updated Mar 23, 2026
The rising petrol prices in Pakistan, exacerbated by government levies, are driving a significant shift in consumer preference towards plug-in hybrid and range-extended electric vehicles. This trend could reduce Pakistan's reliance on imported petroleum, potentially easing pressure on foreign exchange reserves and public finances, while boosting the automotive sector for NEVs.
Pakistan is experiencing a significant shift in its automotive market due to soaring petrol prices, with regular petrol at Rs321 per litre and high-octane fuel reaching Rs535 per litre. This has made conventional petrol-powered SUVs economically burdensome for households. Syed Asif Ahmed, Director Sales and Marketing at Chery Master Pakistan, highlights that plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs) now offer a more practical and cost-effective solution. For example, the Chery offers a running cost of approximately Rs10 per kilometre on electricity, significantly lower than petrol or conventional hybrids. The growing adoption of rooftop solar systems in Pakistan further enhances the economic appeal of these vehicles. This transition is also seen as beneficial for Pakistan's national economy, as it reduces dependence on imported petroleum and mitigates fiscal risks associated with global oil price volatility.
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