Punjab prepares to launch e-taxi project after cabinet approval

Following the Punjab Cabinet’s approval of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s e-taxi initiative, the provincial transport department has initiated steps for its execution.

NESPAK has formulated both a comprehensive business plan and a financial framework to support the project’s rollout.

As per official documentation, a total of 1,100 electric taxis will be introduced under this pilot phase.

These vehicles will be made available to fleet operators, individual drivers, and ride-hailing services. The Punjab government will bear the costs associated with markup, token taxes, and vehicle registration.

Out of the total, 1,000 vehicles will be allotted to fleet owners. Each fleet operator will be allowed to acquire up to ten vehicles.

Additionally, 100 e-taxis will be distributed at the individual level, including a reserved quota of 30 vehicles specifically for women.

Fleet owners will be required to make a 40% down payment, with the remainder financed by the Bank of Punjab. For individual male applicants, the down payment will be 30%, whereas women applicants will need to contribute 40%.

Read more: Sharjeel Memon reviews measures for launch of EV Taxi Service in Karachi

Applications for the e-taxi scheme will be accepted through the PITB online portal, and the process will include e-billing.

The pilot project will focus on Lahore, where all 1,100 electric taxis will be introduced in collaboration with the Bank of Punjab.

Selected suppliers will be responsible for establishing service centers and ensuring the availability of spare parts.

Moreover, suppliers will be required to install charging stations at key locations, with one station to be set up for every 25 taxis. Each e-taxi is expected to deliver a minimum range of 300 kilometers on a full charge.