Govt offers interest-free electric bikes & rickshaws: Here’s how you can get one

In a major step towards sustainable mobility, the Government of Pakistan has greenlit a Rs. 9 billion subsidy scheme to make electric bikes and rickshaws more affordable for citizens across the country.

The subsidy plan—approved by the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC)—targets the adoption of 116,000 electric bikes and 3,170 electric rickshaws/loaders, rolled out in two phases to refine the program through experience.

📉 Key Features of the Subsidy Scheme:

  • Financing up to:

    • Rs. 200,000 for electric bikes

    • Rs. 880,000 for rickshaws/loaders

  • Interest-free loans: Govt will pay full markup

  • Loan duration:

    • 2 years for e-bikes

    • 3 years for rickshaws

  • Borrower’s equity: Only 20% down payment required

  • Islamic financing options included

  • Govt offers 20% loss guarantee to financial institutions

👤 Who’s Eligible?

Any Pakistani national aged:

  • 18–65 years (electric bikes)

  • 21–65 years (electric rickshaws)

Each person is allowed only one subsidized vehicle.

📦 Quota Distribution

  • Based on 2023 population census

  • 10% quota reserved for Balochistan

  • 25% of e-bike quota for women

  • 10% reserved for delivery/courier riders

  • Fleet operators allowed up to 30% of leftover rickshaw quota

🖥️ How to Apply?

  • Applications will be processed through a digital platform

  • If applicants exceed quota, electronic balloting will decide

  • Applications will open via official ads in coming weeks

🛵 Vehicle Selection

  • Only Engineering Development Board (EDB)-approved manufacturers can join

  • Bikes and rickshaws will be shortlisted based on:

    • Quality

    • Safety

    • After-sales support

Successful applicants can choose from a range of approved EVs to get the best value.

🔍 Oversight & Audit

  • Scheme will undergo independent third-party audits

  • Product quality checks through approved external validators

  • Branding for EVs delivered under this scheme will be regulated

The Steering Committee can adjust quotas or units if demand shifts, provided changes stay within the Rs. 9 billion allocation.

This initiative is part of Pakistan’s broader plan to encourage eco-friendly transport, cut emissions, and promote economic inclusion through access to clean, affordable mobility.