BYD Pakistan EV Assembly: Local Production to Begin by 2026

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant BYD is set to begin assembling EVs in Pakistan by July or August 2026, marking a significant expansion of its global footprint and a major milestone for the Pakistani auto industry. The plant under development near Karachi is part of a strategic joint venture with Mega Motor Company, a subsidiary of Hub Power Company (HUBCO), and reflects BYD’s growing focus on emerging markets.

Assembly Plant Near Karachi: 25,000 Units Per Year

The assembly facility; currently under construction since April 2025, will initially operate with an annual capacity of 25,000 vehicles on a double-shift basis. BYD’s Vice President of Sales and Strategy for Pakistan, Danish Khaliq, stated that while the plant will start by assembling imported parts, local production of non-electric components is also planned.

Although the timeline for full-capacity production hasn’t been confirmed, the initial output will cater solely to the domestic Pakistani market. However, the company is also considering exports to right-hand drive markets in the region, depending on logistics and cost feasibility.

BYD Shark 6 Pickup Launches Friday

The company is gearing up to launch its third model in Pakistan; the BYD Shark 6, a plug-in hybrid pickup truck, this Friday. This follows the earlier delivery of imported EVs that began in March 2025. While exact sales numbers haven’t been disclosed, Khaliq noted that deliveries had surpassed internal targets by 30%, indicating strong demand.

Market Outlook: BYD Targets 30–35% Market Share

According to Khaliq, Pakistan’s EV and plug-in hybrid segment is expected to grow three to four times in 2025 compared to 2024, when only around 1,000 units were sold. BYD is aiming for a 30–35% share of this rapidly growing segment, with high hopes pinned on the success of the Shark 6 and future locally assembled models.

EV Charging Challenges and Government Support

Plug-in hybrids remain a more viable option in Pakistan due to the limited EV charging infrastructure. To tackle this, the Pakistani government reduced power tariffs for EV chargers by 45% in January 2025, aiming to boost the uptake of electric vehicles and support the creation of private charging stations.

Financial Performance

Based on HUBCO’s financial disclosures, BYD Pakistan earned around 444 million Pakistani rupees (~$1.56 million) in profit during the March 2025 quarter. This early profitability reflects the strong potential for the EV market in the region.

Competition and Industry Landscape

The Pakistani market is seeing increased activity from international EV brands. MG already offers a plug-in hybrid SUV, and Haval is also preparing to enter the segment. BYD’s early move into local assembly gives it a significant head start and positions it as a key player in shaping Pakistan’s electric mobility future.

Conclusion

BYD’s investment in local EV assembly in Pakistan is a transformative step, signaling confidence in the country’s potential to become a regional hub for electric and hybrid vehicle production. With the BYD Shark 6 launching soon, a 25,000-unit plant underway, and ambitious market share targets, Pakistan’s electric vehicle landscape is poised for rapid evolution, driven by one of the world’s top EV manufacturers.