ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday directed that efforts for promoting electric vehicles (EVs) be accelerated.

Presiding over a review meeting, the premier said that, in view of the prevailing regional situation and future requirements, promoting EVs will not only reduce the fuel import bill but is also extremely important for protecting the environment and energy security.

According to an official press release, Mr Shehbaz directed that transparency be ensured in the subsidy provided to low-income individuals for electric motorcycles under the National Electric Vehicle Policy.

The meeting was also briefed on ongoing steps to promote EVs nationwide.

The meeting was informed that 72 certificates had been issued for electric motorcycle and rickshaw manufacturing, and that four certificates had been granted to EV assemblers. It was also noted that 123 applications had been received to establish EV charging stations.

The meeting was told that planning was underway to shift 30 per cent of vehicles across the country onto electricity, which would conserve fuel amounting to approximately $4.5 billion, the statement said.

Published in Dawn, April 23rd, 2026