Electric vehicles were a major focus at Pakistan’s largest car exhibition. Punjab’s chief minister, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, opened the three-day Pakistan International Auto Show 2026 at the Expo Centre in Lahore. Carmakers displayed electric and hybrid models alongside conventional cars, while industry representatives praised provincial subsidy schemes that have increased demand for their products.
The chief minister described the car industry as an important source of industrial growth, investment and employment. She said the Punjab government was committed to supporting local manufacturing, investment, technology and innovation, and that the show would help create business partnerships and encourage technology transfer.
Industry representatives praised her policies. Electric-vehicle makers welcomed the Green Taxi and CM Bike schemes, and tractor manufacturers praised the Green Tractor Scheme. They said the tractor programme had allowed the industry to become self-sufficient and had increased local production.
After the opening ceremony, Ms Sharif visited the stands and inspected electric vehicles, showing particular interest in an electric ambulance. She also looked at new cars, motorcycles and generators and examined a biogas-powered model displayed by Suzuki.
She spoke with foreign experts at the Honda, Suzuki and other stands about their products and praised the quality of goods made in Pakistan. Usman Aslam Malik, chairman of the Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts and Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM), and Syed Nabeel Hashmi, the event’s chief organiser, briefed her on the exhibition.
The show occupies four halls of the Expo Centre and has 150 exhibitors, including 44 international and 43 local companies. Suzuki, Kia, GAC, Chery, Sazgar, BYD, G-Tour, Hyundai and Honda are among the brands taking part.
Exhibitors displayed cars, motorcycles, electric and hybrid vehicles and locally made car parts. The large number of Chinese brands and electric models shows how quickly the market is changing. Much of the industry’s optimism also depends on continued government subsidy schemes.