Pakistan is moving towards stronger regulation of E-Bikes after lawmakers raised concerns about battery safety and the lack of a dedicated authority for the growing electric motorcycle sector. Officials said the country still does not have a single regulator responsible for overseeing all aspects of E-Bikes, creating gaps in quality control and safety standards.
The issue was discussed during a meeting of a sub-committee of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Industries. Members of the committee expressed concern over the fragmented regulatory system that currently governs the electric motorcycle industry.
Officials informed the committee that several ministries and government departments are responsible for different parts of the E-Bikes sector. These include manufacturing, battery imports, quality standards, charging infrastructure, and vehicle regulation. Lawmakers said this divided system makes effective oversight more difficult.
Committee convener Dr. Mehreen Bhutto highlighted concerns about the use of poor-quality lithium batteries in electric motorcycles. She warned that weak monitoring has allowed some manufacturers to sell products with batteries that lose their performance within two to three years.
According to the committee, replacing these batteries can cost consumers up to Rs. 90,000. Lawmakers said this creates a significant financial burden for buyers and may reduce public confidence in electric vehicles.
Industry representatives also raised concerns about high import duties on lithium-ion batteries. They said these taxes have encouraged the growth of an illegal grey market. In this market, unlicensed businesses refurbish imported battery cells and sell them without proper quality checks or government regulation.
Representatives explained that these unregulated batteries may not meet safety standards. They stressed that stronger enforcement is needed to protect consumers and improve confidence in the expanding electric vehicle market.
The industry also urged the government to support local manufacturing of lithium batteries and related components. According to industry officials, increasing domestic production could lower costs, improve quality control, and reduce dependence on imported products.
Lawmakers agreed that Pakistan needs a more organized regulatory framework for E-Bikes. They asked stakeholders to submit recommendations aimed at improving product quality, battery safety, and industry standards.
The committee believes that better regulations could help support the long-term growth of the electric motorcycle market while ensuring greater consumer protection.
Engineering Development Board Chief Executive Officer Hammad Mansoor informed the committee that the government is currently finalizing a new battery policy. He said the upcoming policy is expected to address many of the industry’s concerns regarding battery quality, safety standards, and regulation.
The planned policy could also help establish clearer rules for manufacturers and importers while promoting responsible industry practices. Officials believe these measures will encourage the adoption of cleaner transportation across the country.
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As demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, stronger oversight of E-Bikes is expected to play an important role in improving safety, supporting local manufacturing, and building consumer trust in Pakistan’s emerging electric mobility sector.
