Xiaomi Electric Car Launch in Pakistan Delayed

The much-anticipated arrival of Xiaomi's electric vehicles (EVs) in Pakistan has been postponed, and the launch is on hold (Source: Business Recorder). After car enthusiasts got excited about the brand's arrival in Pakistan, Xiaomi's local partner, Air Link Communication Limited, said the launch will be delayed.

What's the reason?

Xiaomi is experiencing a huge surge in its domestic market in China. Therefore, Xiami EV's launch in Pakistan faces a huge setback.

In a corporate briefing session held on Thursday (October 23, 2025), Air Link Communication (AIRLINK), which has the franchise for Xiaomi smartphones and plans to introduce its electric vehicles (EVs), explained what caused the delay in the launch of Xiaomi's EVs in Pakistan.

The management explained that the unexpected rise in the demand for Xiaomi's electric vehicles in China's local market is the core reason. That's why Xiaomi is focusing more on producing left-hand-drive vehicles to meet domestic market demand first.

Here are some key takeaways of this recent conference;

• The company is still in talks with the Pakistani government about export approvals and about where assembly or local manufacturing might take place.
• Two units of the Xiaomi SU7 model were already imported into Karachi in 2024, signalling intent, but the full rollout hasn't been confirmed yet.

What's Its Significance for Pakistan's Car Market?

• For Car Buyers: For Pakistani auto lovers and car enthusiasts, Xiaomi EVs' entry was seen as an affordable alternative to electric vehicles. Delay means fewer or limited choices available now.
  
• For Local Industry: If a renowned company like Xiaomi starts production in Pakistan, it could help the electric vehicle industry by manufacturing local EVs rather than importing them. But the delay means losing those benefits.
• For EV Adoption: Pakistan is encouraging EV adoption, but delays could slow momentum.
• For Local Investors: AirLink's profit may improve in the future due to tax incentives, but the schedule for its electric vehicle project is still uncertain. It's not a good indicator for local investors, as important factors such as tariffs, regulatory hurdles, an unstable currency, and limited charging infrastructure are key reasons behind the delay.

Overall, these challenges haven't slowed or postponed Xiaomi's entry, but they can negatively influence the overall growth of the EV industry in Pakistan.

Key Things to Watch

Although the official launch date isn't revealed yet, or Xiaomi isn't planning EV production in Pakistan anytime soon, still, here are key things to watch;

• When will Xiaomi announce a fixed launch date in Pakistan?
• Will the Pakistani government approve export/assembly permissions soon, or will paperwork delay things?
• How will competitors or local investors react? If Xiaomi delays, other brands can invest in more domestic EV production to fill the gap and shape the Pakistani UV market. 
• What will be the final pricing if Xiaomi finally launches? Will it still be reasonable for local buyers compared to other EVs?

Bottom Line

In a nutshell, the delay in Xiaomi's launch in Pakistan isn't a disaster but a missed opportunity to fast-track EV adoption and competition in the local market.

If you are also waiting for Xiaomi's car, now may not be the right time, as you have to wait for the final announcement. If you are in a hurry or can't wait, consider other brands or models that are already available.