In a landmark move for Pakistan’s auto industry, renowned business tycoon Mian Mohammad Mansha is entering the electric vehicle (EV) market through a joint venture with Chery Automobile Co., one of China’s largest car exporters.
The project will be spearheaded by NextGen Auto Pvt., a subsidiary of Nishat Group, which has allocated around $100 million for manufacturing and marketing operations. According to Muhammad Aqib Zulfiqar, the group’s Chief Financial Officer, the factory will officially begin assembling vehicles locally by October 2025, with a debut of five new cars under Chery’s Omoda and Jaecoo brands scheduled for launch this Friday.
A “No Brainer” Move
Speaking about the partnership, Zulfiqar called the decision a “no brainer,” pointing out that China leads the world in EV technology and cost efficiency. He said Nishat Group officials had visited China earlier this year and engaged with multiple manufacturers before finalizing Chery.
“In this category, China is much ahead of all other manufacturing hubs when it comes to advancements and cost,” Zulfiqar explained.
Read more: Chinese New Energy Vehicle companies plan to set up factories in Pakistan
Growing Competition in Pakistan’s EV Market
The collaboration adds to a fast-growing list of Chinese automakers entering Pakistan. Companies like BYD, Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp. (SAIC), and others have already launched EV models, and they have also declared plans to do so. BYD, China’s top EV manufacturer, will also start production in Pakistan next year with a local partner.
Industry experts say the rising competition could drastically transform Pakistan’s auto landscape, long dominated by Japanese brands.
Nishat Group’s Expanding Footprint
Nishat Group already has a strong presence in the auto sector, having introduced Hyundai vehicles to Pakistan in 2017. With business interests ranging from cement and garments to banking and insurance, the conglomerate sees EVs as its next frontier.
“We believe EVs are the future,” Zulfiqar said. “This is not just an investment in cars, but in a cleaner, more sustainable Pakistan.”
Government Push for Green Transport
The vastest target has been set by the federal gov to make 30 percent of all vehicle sales electric by 2030, with incentives such as reduced electricity tariffs for EV charging stations. However, Zulfiqar has put emphasis upon the need for quicker implementation of supportive policies, especially in granting licenses for more charging stations.
“The new model that we have glanced is new energy vehicles,” he noted. “Leaving it open and letting competition run free was not wise — structured support is key.”
Why It Matters
The arrival of Chery-Nishat’s EVs could help making electric mobility more affordable for Pakistani consumers and reduce over-dependency on fuel imports.
Moreover, it will support Pakistan’s climate goals. For Mansha and Nishat Group, it marks another bold step in shaping the country’s industrial future.