Globally the electric vehicles (EV) are gaining substantial momentum due to their higher energy efficiency, lower running and operations costs, as well as lower tailpipe emissions. As a result of these multiple benefits, the global electric vehicle fleet has been expanding at a rapid pace - primarily driven by policy support by leading governments, technology improvements and declining battery costs.  The road transport sector in Pakistan relies heavily on fuel imports. Pollution in major cities has increased to alarming levels. Apparently, Pakistan currently faces a power surplus crisis. Increased EVs penetration could serve as a productive power demand and help achieve an adequate level of utilization of existing power capacity and bring down unit cost of electricity. Electrification of transportation is one of the effective means to reduce energy intensity in the road transport sector. Besides, EVs offer lower running and operational costs, and as well as lower tailpipe emissions. All these factors put together make a strong case for EV adoption in Pakistan.

While recognizing the multiple economic, environmental and social benefits of electric mobility, Government of Pakistan introduced its first ever National Electric Vehicle Policy (NEVP) for various vehicular segments in 2020.

This work undertakes a comparative assessment of Pakistan’s national EV policy and emerging EV markets in the US, EU, China, and India in the context of EV deployment targets, carbon emission regulations, fuel economy standards, phase-out plans for Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles and purchase incentives for EVs.