As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) rises in Pakistan amid persistently high petrol prices, local companies are taking steps to meet this growing need. In a significant development, Yousuf Dewan Companies (YDC) has teamed up with Shanghai Launch Automotive Technology Co., Ltd (LAUNCH) to produce the country’s first National Electric Car.
This partnership was officially sealed in Beijing with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The collaboration aims to introduce advanced EV technology to Pakistan, support sustainable transportation initiatives, and kick-start local manufacturing of electric vehicles.
The YDC and LAUNCH alliance seeks to design and build a locally assembled electric car, utilising LAUNCH’s expertise in cutting-edge EV technology.
A key aspect of the agreement is the plan to set up assembly operations for completely knocked-down (CKD) battery electric vehicles (BEVs). These operations will allow the production of both right-hand and left-hand drive models, catering to local consumers as well as export markets.
At the MoU signing ceremony, Science Councilor Khan Muhammad Wazir and YDC’s Director of Projects, Idrees Gigi, highlighted the importance of this initiative in cutting emissions and promoting energy-efficient transportation. Both expressed optimism about the potential for EVs to make a meaningful contribution to Pakistan’s environmental goals.
A representative from LAUNCH shared the company’s enthusiasm about the partnership, stating: “We are thrilled to collaborate with YDC to bring our world-class EV technology to Pakistan. This agreement highlights our commitment to sustainable mobility and further strengthens our global footprint in the EV industry.”
YDC’s Idrees Gigi also expressed his excitement, calling the partnership a game-changer for Pakistan’s EV landscape. “By localising EV production and introducing modern electric models, we hope to accelerate the shift to green transportation while also supporting Pakistan’s economic and environmental objectives,” he said.
The YDC-LAUNCH collaboration is expected to significantly advance Pakistan’s EV industry, offering consumers affordable, high-quality electric vehicles while paving the way for a more sustainable future.
