Electric Bikes in Pakistan

The popularity of electric bikes (e-bikes) in Pakistan has skyrocketed in recent years, driven by rising fuel prices and growing demand for eco-friendly transport. However, a new report has raised serious concerns: nearly 90% of electric bikes in the country are using unsafe and substandard batteries, putting riders and the public at risk.

Growing Use of E-Bikes in Pakistan

With petrol prices fluctuating and concerns about environmental pollution increasing, e-bikes have become an attractive alternative for daily commuters. Thousands of Pakistanis, especially in urban centers like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad, are shifting to e-bikes for their low running cost and convenience.

But the growing demand has also encouraged manufacturers and local assemblers to cut corners. Instead of installing certified lithium-ion batteries, many e-bikes are fitted with low-quality or refurbished batteries that do not meet international safety standards.

The Safety Risks

Unsafe and poorly manufactured batteries can cause multiple hazards, including:

• Overheating and Fire Risk: Substandard batteries can overheat during charging and ignite.
• Low Battery Life: Poor-quality batteries degrade much faster, forcing consumers to replace them frequently.
• Risk of Explosions: Faulty charging systems combined with cheap cells may lead to explosions in extreme cases.
• Unstable Performance: Power delivery is often irregular, causing unexpected breakdowns during rides.

Experts warn that without urgent regulation, the trend could lead to a surge in accidents and damage the reputation of Pakistan’s e-bike industry.

Quick Detail Table

Issue	Details
Market Share	Around 90% of e-bikes using unsafe/non-certified batteries
Main Problem	Low-quality lithium or lead-acid batteries being used
Risks	Fire, overheating, explosions, short lifespan
Consumer Impact	Frequent replacements, high costs, safety concerns
Suggested Solution	Government regulation, certification, quality checks

Why Manufacturers Use Unsafe Batteries

The main reason is cost-cutting. Certified lithium-ion batteries are expensive, while local assemblers often import cheap alternatives to keep e-bike prices low and attract buyers. For example, a high-quality battery can cost up to 40–50% of the total price of the e-bike, making many companies reluctant to invest in safer technology.

This situation leaves buyers with little choice, as most low-cost e-bikes in Pakistan are powered by such batteries.

Government’s Role

So far, there has been limited regulation on battery safety standards for e-bikes in Pakistan. Experts suggest that the government should:

• Enforce certification standards for imported and locally manufactured batteries.
• Monitor the after-market sales of replacement batteries.
• Promote incentives for companies that adopt safe lithium-ion technology.
• Launch awareness campaigns for consumers on how to identify safe and unsafe batteries.

Consumer Awareness

Buyers need to educate themselves before investing in an e-bike. Checking the battery type, warranty, and certification is crucial. Spending a bit more initially on a high-quality battery can save money and prevent accidents in the long run.

Future of Electric Bikes in Pakistan

E-bikes have the potential to revolutionize Pakistan’s transport system by reducing fuel consumption and pollution. However, unless safety issues are addressed, the industry risks losing consumer confidence. For sustainable growth, manufacturers, policymakers, and consumers must work together to ensure that only safe and certified batteries are used in the market.

Final Word

The revelation that 90% of electric bikes in Pakistan are using unsafe batteries is alarming. While e-bikes are a promising solution to the country’s fuel and environmental challenges, the lack of quality control in battery manufacturing and installation poses serious risks. Ensuring strict regulations, consumer awareness, and a shift toward certified technology will be critical in shaping a safe and sustainable future for electric mobility in Pakistan.