KARACHI: Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles are emerging as an early pathway to electrified mobility in Pakistan, as limited charging infrastructure and cost considerations continue to slow the adoption of fully electric vehicles.
The shift mirrors a broader global trend led by China, which has overtaken Japan and Germany to become the world’s largest car exporter, driven largely by new energy vehicles, including electric and hybrid models.
In Pakistan, initial demand appears to be tilting towards plug-in hybrids. Chery Master Pakistan has recorded more than 2,000 bookings for its Tiggo plug-in hybrid sport utility vehicle range shortly after launch, a company official said. The lineup includes the Tiggo 7, Tiggo 8 and Tiggo 9 models.
Industry analysts attribute the trend primarily to fuel economics and usability rather than upfront pricing. Elevated petrol prices have increased the running costs of conventional vehicles, particularly in urban driving, making hybrid options relatively more attractive.
At the same time, structural constraints continue to weigh on wider electric vehicle adoption. Charging infrastructure remains limited, while concerns over grid reliability and driving range persist, particularly outside major cities.This has positioned plug-in hybrids as a transitional option, allowing drivers to use electric power for shorter trips while retaining a combustion engine for longer journeys.
