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Electric vehicle manufacturers in Pakistan have come under scrutiny for using substandard and low-quality batteries, triggering alarm bells in government circles. This development threatens consumer safety and the credibility of the fast-growing EV sector.

EV Demand Surges Amid Global Energy Shocks:
Pakistan is seeing a sharp rise in electric vehicle sales and demand after the US-Israel-Iran conflict pushed oil prices significantly higher. EVs are also vital for achieving national clean mobility targets and contributing to international climate goals.

Regulatory Crackdown on Battery Standards:
The government has decided to roll out a strict quality testing system for EV batteries. The matter was raised in a recent executive committee meeting of the National Coordination and Management Council (NCMC), where deep concerns were expressed.

The NCMC meeting, co-chaired by the federal minister for economic affairs and the national coordinator, was attended by key stakeholders including representatives from the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) Secretariat.

Council members noted that several EV assemblers are not following prescribed safety and quality standards for batteries. Uncertified components could lead to major risks including fire hazards, poor performance, and loss of public trust in electric vehicles.

Action Plan for Quality Assurance:
The NCMC directed the Engineering Development Board (EDB) to work closely with the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NEECA) and other stakeholders. They must develop a comprehensive inspection, testing, and verification mechanism.

This new system will enforce certification requirements, regular inspections, and continuous compliance monitoring for both manufacturers and importers.

The Ministry of Industries & Production, EDB, and NEECA have received clear instructions to begin immediate work. The goal is to establish testing protocols aligned with international standards for electric vehicle batteries.

Industry experts highlight that substandard batteries can drastically reduce vehicle range, cause unexpected breakdowns, and create safety issues for users. A robust framework is essential to protect consumers and sustain sector growth.

Officials believe timely intervention will boost investor confidence and help Pakistan build a reliable EV ecosystem. Local manufacturers may need technical support to upgrade their supply chains and meet the new benchmarks.

This regulatory push comes at a pivotal moment as the country accelerates its shift toward green transportation. With rising EV adoption, ensuring component quality has become a national priority for long-term sustainability.

Stakeholders have welcomed the move, hoping it will create a level playing field and encourage responsible manufacturing practices. The government has assured a transparent and collaborative implementation process.

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