BYD to Begin Local EV Assembly in Pakistan by 2026

China’s leading electric vehicle maker, BYD, has announced plans to begin local assembly of electric and hybrid vehicles in Pakistan by mid-2026. This is a major step for the country’s auto industry and the growing market for electric vehicles (EVs).

New BYD Assembly Plant Near Karachi

The new assembly plant is currently under construction near Karachi. It is a joint project between BYD and Mega Motor Company, a subsidiary of Pakistan’s utility firm Hub Power Company (Hubco).

Once completed, the facility will produce approximately 25,000 vehicles per year, operating on two shifts. Initially, the plant will assemble vehicles using imported parts, and over time, it will incorporate more locally made components.

First Locally Assembled Models

BYD hopes to roll out its first Pakistan-assembled EVs in July or August 2026. These will include both pure-electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), depending on demand and infrastructure availability.

The early production focus is expected to be on models suited to everyday life in Pakistan, where charging stations remain limited. Plug-in hybrids may be more practical initially, but fully electric options will also be available.

Why This Matters for Pakistan

This move is important for several reasons:

• It will reduce import costs because locally assembled vehicles pay lower duties than fully built imports.
• It could make EVs more affordable for Pakistani buyers.
•  Local assembly helps support jobs and skills development in the automotive sector.

Pakistan has seen increased interest in EVs, particularly in cities such as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, where people are increasingly choosing EVs for daily driving and longer trips. 

Market Growth and Expectations

BYD began importing EVs into Pakistan in early 2025. The company reports early sales have exceeded its internal targets by about 30%, indicating strong buyer interest.

With the local assembly starting in 2026, BYD expects the EV and PHEV market in Pakistan to grow three to four times in 2025 compared to 2024. They aim to capture about 30–35% of the total EV market in the coming years.

Future Possibilities

In addition to serving the local market, BYD may export vehicles to right-hand-drive markets, depending on market conditions and demand.

The assembly plant is a significant step toward developing Pakistan’s EV industry. It could also encourage other automakers to consider local production, thereby expanding the charging infrastructure and EV adoption nationwide.

Final Thoughts

BYD’s plan to start assembling electric and hybrid cars in Pakistan by 2026 is a promising sign for EV buyers and the automotive industry. With local assembly, Pakistan may soon see more affordable EV options and increased confidence in electric mobility.