Electric Bikes Response to PAMA report on Unsafe Electric Bike Batteries in Pakistan

Introduction

Electric Bikes Response to PAMA report. The recent Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA) report, revealing that almost 90% of electric bikes in Pakistan use unsafe batteries, sent shockwaves throughout the country’s automotive and energy sectors. With growing consumer concern and potential policy implications, the industry’s reaction has been swift, defensive, and, in some cases, transformative.

This article explores how manufacturers, suppliers, and government stakeholders are responding to PAMA’s findings and what actions are being taken to ensure safer, more reliable electric mobility in Pakistan.

Immediate Reaction of Electric Bikes to the PAMA Report

When the PAMA report first surfaced, many electric bike manufacturers were taken aback. The revelation not only damaged market trust but also threatened the credibility of Pakistan’s growing EV (Electric Vehicle) industry.

Industry leaders publicly expressed concern over the findings, acknowledging that while affordability had driven the rise of e-bikes, safety oversight had been insufficient. Some companies even called for joint action between the public and private sectors to establish clearer safety standards.

Manufacturers’ Statements and Clarifications

Leading local e-bike brands such as Jolta, Evee, and Metro quickly issued clarifications.
They claimed that:

• Their batteries were imported from reputable Chinese manufacturers.
• Only a small portion of the market was responsible for unsafe practices.
• They welcomed PAMA’s investigation and supported the introduction of battery certification protocols.

Some smaller brands, however, stayed silent — raising further questions about transparency and accountability within the market.

Commitment to Battery Safety Compliance

To rebuild consumer confidence, several manufacturers have now pledged to upgrade their battery systems. These upgrades include:

• Integrating Battery Management Systems (BMS) to prevent overheating.
• Partnering with certified battery suppliers.
• Implementing in-house testing before final assembly.

This marks a turning point, as many companies previously outsourced these checks due to cost constraints.

The Role of Importers and Distributors

Importers — who supply most of Pakistan’s e-bike batteries — are also under scrutiny. Many distributors have admitted that cheap, uncertified imports flooded the market due to high demand and limited regulation.

To fix this, major importers have begun:

• Verifying suppliers’ international certifications (such as UN 38.3).
• Reducing bulk orders from unverified battery factories.
• Exploring regional partnerships for quality battery production.

These steps aim to align Pakistan’s supply chain with global EV safety standards.

Government and Regulatory Response

Following the report, government bodies such as the Engineering Development Board (EDB) and the Ministry of Industries and Production initiated consultations with PAMA and EV stakeholders.

Discussions are underway to:

• Create battery safety testing labs in Pakistan.
• Establish import regulations requiring certification.
• Update the Electric Vehicle Policy 2020 to include safety and inspection protocols.

This signals a stronger commitment from policymakers to ensure the safe expansion of Pakistan’s EV ecosystem.

Collaboration Between Stakeholders

A notable outcome of the PAMA findings is increased collaboration between manufacturers, engineers, and energy companies.

Several initiatives have emerged:

• Public-private partnerships to establish EV training centers.
• Joint ventures with Chinese and European firms for advanced battery technology.
• Development of local battery assembly plants to reduce dependence on low-quality imports.

Such collaborations could redefine Pakistan’s role in the regional EV market.

Industry Associations Taking the Lead

Organizations like PAAPAM (Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts & Accessories Manufacturers) have supported PAMA’s call for stricter regulation.
They’ve proposed:

• A national certification board for EV components.
• Training workshops for local assemblers.
• An annual EV safety audit conducted by independent experts.

This proactive stance demonstrates that the local industry recognizes the need for reform.

Impact on Consumer Confidence

Initially, consumers reacted with fear and frustration. Many worried that their e-bikes could be unsafe or prone to malfunction.

However, transparent communication from major manufacturers — combined with increased safety awareness — is slowly restoring public trust.

Companies offering extended warranties, battery replacements, and service campaigns have seen a rise in brand loyalty despite the controversy.

The Push for Localization and Innovation

Pakistan’s EV market has long relied on imported technology. The PAMA findings, however, have motivated local innovators to seek homegrown solutions.

Startups and engineering students are experimenting with:

• Safer lithium-iron-phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries.
• Smart charging systems that detect faults automatically.
• Battery recycling programs to reduce waste and dependency on imports.

This shift toward innovation could define the next chapter of Pakistan’s EV development.

Challenges Ahead

Despite these encouraging responses, the road to reform is far from smooth.

• High costs of certified batteries may push prices beyond consumer affordability.
• Limited testing infrastructure delays quality verification.
• Lack of skilled EV technicians hinders consistent maintenance.

Without continuous oversight and investment, these challenges could slow down progress.

Positive Signs for the Future

Amid challenges, optimism remains. Pakistan’s EV sector is young but evolving fast. PAMA’s findings acted as a much-needed wake-up call, forcing industry stakeholders to prioritize safety over speed.

If the current trajectory continues, Pakistan could soon see:

• The launch of locally certified battery brands.
• The establishment of EV research centers.
• A more structured regulatory framework ensuring quality assurance.

Conclusion

The industry response to PAMA’s findings has been both reflective and action-oriented. While the report exposed serious safety lapses, it also ignited a wave of accountability and innovation.

Manufacturers are upgrading standards, importers are verifying sources, and policymakers are preparing new regulations. In short, Pakistan’s electric vehicle industry is entering a phase of responsible transformation — one that promises safer rides and a cleaner future for all.