PM Electric Bike Scheme 2026: Rs 80,000 Subsidy, Eligibility and What to Check Before You Buy

Petrol prices keep climbing, and many riders are asking whether an electric bike makes sense. The government has made that question easier with a subsidy of Rs 80,000 per electric motorcycle. Here is what we know about the scheme, based on reports published through mid-2026.

What is the PAVE programme?

PAVE stands for Pakistan Accelerated Vehicle Electrification. It runs under the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) Policy 2025 to 2030, which the federal cabinet approved on 26 August 2025. The Engineering Development Board (EDB) manages the programme. The government has committed Rs 100 billion over five years, with Rs 9 billion set aside for the current fiscal year.

How much is the subsidy?

• Electric motorcycles: Rs 80,000 per bike
• Electric rickshaws: Rs 400,000 per rickshaw

EDB CEO Hamad Ali Mansoor said these electric motorcycles are priced Rs 50,000 to Rs 60,000 lower than comparable models in the market, and that riders could save up to Rs 8,000 a month on fuel. Your own saving will depend on how much you ride.

Who can apply?

As reported when the scheme launched in February 2026, applicants for an electric motorcycle need:

• A valid Pakistani CNIC
• To be between 18 and 65 years old
• A valid driving licence or learner's permit
• An active bank account

Reports also say that 25% of the bikes are reserved for women. Typical documents include a CNIC copy, your licence, passport-size photographs and bank account details, and students are asked for a student ID or proof of admission. Rules can change, so always read the latest conditions on the official portal.

Phase 1 and Phase 2

The first phase was a pilot with a target of about 41,000 vehicles. The Express Tribune reported in early May 2026 that only 5,409 electric bikes had been delivered so far, so uptake was slow.

In May 2026 the government approved Phase 2. It adds 76,000 electric bikes and 2,170 rickshaws and loaders, bringing the target for the fiscal year to 119,170 vehicles. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis through the PAVE portal. Reports differ on exactly how the Rs 80,000 reaches the buyer. Some describe a lower price at the time of purchase, while others say the money goes to the manufacturer after delivery and registration. Confirm the current method before you pay anything.

Checklist before you buy an electric bike

• Buy only from an approved maker. The bike must come from a manufacturer registered and approved under PAVE, or it will not qualify for the subsidy.
• Use the official government portal only. Be careful with look-alike websites and agents who ask for fees to "guarantee" your application.
• Check the battery. Ask about battery type, warranty length and the cost of replacement.
• Match the range to your routine. Work out your daily distance and where you will charge.
• Look for service support. Make sure there is an authorised service centre in your city.
• Compare with a petrol bike. Add up the purchase price, fuel or charging cost and maintenance over a few years.

Also keep in mind that the used electric bike market in Pakistan is still young, so resale may work differently from petrol bikes such as the Honda CD 70 or CG 125.

This article reflects reports available up to mid-2026. Terms, funding and phase status can change, so check the official PAVE portal before you apply.

Sources

• The Nation: Government launches PM's Electric Bike and Rickshaw Scheme 2026
• PakWheels: Govt launches Prime Minister's Electric Bike and Rickshaw Scheme 2026
• ProPakistani: Govt approves new subsidy plan under EV policy
• The Express Tribune: Banks reject 91% of e-bike requests