Honda Atlas gears up to launch hybrid cars in Pakistan’s auto market

ISLAMABAD: With petrol prices climbing beyond the reach of many, automakers in Pakistan are increasingly shifting focus towards more fuel-efficient alternatives such as hybrid, semi-electric, and battery-powered vehicles.

Although hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) remain relatively expensive for the average consumer, their arrival in the Pakistani market is seen as an essential step. As the global auto industry moves steadily towards eco-friendly and carbon-free technologies, local manufacturers are also beginning to follow suit.

Honda Atlas Cars Limited is the latest to join this transition, announcing plans to introduce Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) models in Pakistan. While the company has not shared an exact launch date, it confirmed the development in a notice sent to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Friday.

“This initiative reflects our continued commitment to innovation, environmental sustainability, and offering advanced mobility solutions to our valued customers,” the company stated. “The introduction of HEV models will mark a significant step forward in our product portfolio and support the growing demand for eco-friendly vehicles in Pakistan.”

Details regarding the specifications and official launch schedule will be shared at a later stage, according to the company.

Pakistan has seen growing interest in electric mobility in recent years, although several hurdles still exist in terms of affordability, infrastructure, and production capabilities.

To encourage the shift, the government slashed the electricity tariff for EV charging stations in January 2025 by 45 per cent — reducing it from Rs71.10 to Rs39.40.

Earlier, a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb was held to review the draft of the New Energy Vehicle Policy 2025. The policy sets ambitious goals for accelerating EV adoption and addressing key obstacles in local production and infrastructure development.

According to Business Recorder, spanning the period from 2025 to 2030, the new EV policy outlines a comprehensive plan to transition Pakistan’s transport sector from fossil fuels to clean electricity.

Drafted by the Ministry of Industries and Production, the policy aims to cut down greenhouse gas emissions, reduce reliance on imported fuel, and foster green technology growth in the country.

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