Atlas Honda introduces first EV Bike in Pakistan. It’s interesting to see Atlas Honda, one of Pakistan’s major motorcycle manufacturers, entering the electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of the Honda BENLY e.
The unveiling of this EV motorcycle coincided with the celebration of Atlas Honda’s 60th year of operations in Pakistan.
The Chief Officer of Motorcycle and Power Products, Noriaki Abe, mentioned that the BENLY e would undergo test marketing and future products would be developed based on market feedback.
The executives highlighted Honda’s longstanding presence in Pakistan, emphasizing its role in motorcycle and auto parts manufacturing since 1963.
The President and CEO of Atlas Honda, Saquib H Shirazi, shared insights into the company’s achievements, including an extensive network of local auto parts manufacturers and dealers, contributing to direct employment opportunities for over 150,000 people.
The announcement of the BENLY e comes amidst a significant rise in net profit for Atlas Honda Limited, attributed to increased sales and other income in the first quarter of the fiscal year 2023-24.
However, the overall motorcycle industry in Pakistan faced challenges, with a decline in sales, likely influenced by factors such as higher bike prices and reduced consumer purchasing power.
Challenges specific to the adoption of EV bikes in Pakistan:
- Lack of Charging Infrastructure: The insufficient number of charging stations across the country poses a challenge to the growing demand for EV bikes. Collaboration between the government and the private sector is essential to invest in charging infrastructure.
- High Cost and Low Range: EV bikes still face challenges related to cost, with batteries being expensive and taking a considerable time to charge. Additionally, the limited range of EV bikes may hinder long-distance travel without frequent recharging.
- Low Awareness and Acceptance: Many people in Pakistan may not be familiar with the benefits of EV bikes and their environmental impact. Government-led awareness campaigns could play a crucial role in educating consumers and promoting the adoption of EV bikes.
- Inconsistent Government Policies: The lack of clarity and consistency in the EV policy in Pakistan, including varying incentives and regulations for different types of EVs and sectors, needs to be addressed. Policymaking should consider aspects such as taxation, standardization, quality control, and safety of EVs.
As Atlas Honda introduces first EV Bike in Pakistan, the entry of an EV motorcycle by Atlas Honda signals a shift toward cleaner and more sustainable mobility.
Addressing infrastructure and awareness issues, along with consistent government policies, will likely be key to the successful integration of EVs into the Pakistani market.
