Electric bikes are gaining popularity

KARACHI:

Out of a total of 18 electric vehicle (EV) motorcycle brands, ten have gained more popularity compared to fuel-powered bikes in the market. Another eight brands are expected to appear in March, according to experts and analysts.

“Ten branded companies have started selling EV motorcycles, while another eight companies will launch their products in mid-March as the Engineering Development Board (EDB) has already issued licenses to 34 companies, including electric rickshaws. Over 100 showrooms are being designed and decorated well across the country due to more educated customers including women, students and others who want to buy them,” said Auto Sector expert and analyst Muhammad Sabir Sheikh while talking to The Express Tribune . . He added that although the sale of EV bikes remained weak due to the winter season, it will regain momentum in March.

All ten brands, including Yadea, Aima, Metro, Evee, Benling, YJ Future, Tailg, Winner, Crown and Ramza, have received their respective Completely-Knocked Down (CKD) kits and assembly bikes for sale. Sheikh pointed out that the crumbling infrastructure of Karachi, Hyderabad and Sukkur is causing problems for EV bikes with small tire sizes of 10 to 12 inches, while fuel bike tire sizes are 18 to 20 inches. EV bikes need a smooth road surface as seen in the infrastructure of Islamabad, Faisalabad, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Sialkot and others. EV bikes have gained huge popularity in Thailand, China, Europe, Vietnam and other places where the roads are like a smooth carpet.

An economical EV bike, which consumes only 2 units of electricity in a single charge for 5 to 6 hours, can cover 80 to 100 kilometers. EV bikes, depending on the models with various features, are sold in the market for prices ranging from Rs 150,000 to Rs 360,000.

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“More companies are coming and healthy competition is being observed. Customers love EV bikes because of two main advantages: firstly, greater savings ranging from Rs 1 to 1.50 per kilometer compared to fuel-powered bikes that cost Rs 6 to 7 per kilometer, and secondly, the price difference, which was much more important, it is gradually shrinking and affordability is increasing,” said Yadea CEO Mohammad Salman. He explained that EV bikes are better than fuel bikes due to favorable aspects like 500% saving per kilometer, no maintenance, no filter, no regulation, no engine, no pollution, no noise, cost efficiency and many more.

Salman highlighted the features of the EV bikes, including being environmentally friendly, with the frame, motor and battery carrying warranties of 36 months, 24 months and 18 months, respectively. Other features include a digital and colorful speedometer with full digital display, more comfort, under-seat bin capacity, durable and high-quality plastic body parts and advanced technology.

He described this opportunity as a blessing in disguise, allowing people to reduce their fuel budgets and the government’s biggest chunk of fuel being phased out. The sales are increasing day by day and the dealership network is being strengthened in the country due to the growing demand for the bike. Salman said that customers are fully satisfied as brand name showrooms offer after sales services through dealership networks in the country.

“People are installing solar systems on the roof of houses to reduce electricity costs. After kitchen and utility costs, fuel bike commuting costs are huge. This is why embracing the world’s trend towards electric bikes suits all commuters within or outside the country,” he concluded.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 27^u2024.

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