RAWALPINDI: The rising cost of petroleum is accelerating the adoption of electric motorcycles and battery-powered scooters across Pakistan, with sales and demand seeing a significant uptick in the open market.
Government employees, ride-hailing riders, delivery workers, and students are increasingly turning to electric bikes as a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative. Female students, working women, and delivery riders are now a common sight on the city’s streets riding e-bikes, highlighting the growing acceptance of electric mobility.
Motorcycle dealers report that electric bikes are available on both cash and instalment plans, with prices ranging from Rs170,000 to over Rs600,000 depending on brand, battery capacity, and features. Popular models include Jolta, Pakzon, United, and Vlektra, offering ranges of 80–100 kilometres per battery, with some capable of over 100 kilometres on a full charge. The vehicles are nearly silent, require minimal maintenance, and eliminate petrol costs.
Instalment plans typically start with an advance of Rs10,000–15,000, followed by monthly payments of Rs5,000–10,000 for up to a year. Users say e-bikes significantly cut expenses on fuel, engine tuning, and maintenance. Haris Ali, an e-bike owner, noted that while actual range may be closer to 50 kilometres per charge, the savings on fuel and upkeep are substantial.
Working professional Ayesha Sultana said switching to a low-capacity e-scooter on instalments has allowed her to save considerably on petrol costs. Dealers also report that many petrol-powered motorcycle owners are selling their bikes and transitioning to electric models, signaling a notable shift in urban mobility trends.
Story by Qaiser Shirazi
