Government EV Policy Updates — What You Need to Know

Government EV Policy Updates — What You Need to Know

The federal government published the updated National Electric Vehicle Policy in March 2025. Here's what it actually means for buyers, dealers, and the industry.

Key Changes for Buyers

1. Customs duty on imported EVs cut from 25% to 10% for CBUs under 50 kWh battery capacity.
2. Registration fee reduced by 50% in Punjab, Sindh, and ICT for EVs registered in 2025–2026.
3. Annual token tax waived for 5 years on new EV registrations.
4. Free white number plate (regular plates) — no more "green number plate" stigma during resale.

For Home Chargers

• GST on home wallbox chargers reduced from 18% to 5%.
• Net metering for solar-charged EVs is now explicitly allowed under NEPRA rules.
• DISCOs (LESCO, K-Electric, IESCO) must approve EV-only meter applications within 30 days of fee payment.

For Public Charging Operators

• Up to 40% subsidy on imported DC fast charger hardware (max PKR 30 lakh per unit).
• Concessional 5-year loans through SBP's refinance scheme at 4% markup.
• Land lease discounts at NHA service areas for verified charging operators.

For Local Manufacturers

• 5-year tax holiday on EV assembly plants commissioned before December 2027.
• Reduced sales tax (3%) on locally-assembled EVs vs 18% on petrol cars.

What's Still Missing

• No clear used-EV import policy — older Nissan Leafs and BYDs remain in a grey zone.
• No standard for charging payments — every operator has its own app.
• No consumer warranty enforcement — battery warranty disputes still go through normal civil courts.

Bottom Line for Buyers

A BYD Dolphin that cost PKR 72 lakh in late 2024 now lists at PKR 65 lakh — most of that drop is policy-driven. If you've been waiting, the math has shifted permanently in your favour.

We'll keep this post updated as SROs and provincial notifications roll out.