IMC unveils first hybrid electric vehicle

LAHORE: Indus Motor Company (IMC) displayed its commitment to local manufacturing, sustainability and innovation by unveiling its first-ever ‘Make in Pakistan’ hybrid electric vehicle at the Pakistan Auto Show (PAPS) in Lahore.

The event was attended by IMC’s Senior Director of Manufacturing Makoto Kubota and Director of Manufacturing Wali Muhammad Khan. Over the past 30 years, IMC has made significant investments in localisation efforts, enhancing the production of high-quality vehicles while creating jobs and promoting the growth of local industries.

IMC representatives also urged the government to implement sustainable policies that will foster long-term growth in the local auto industry. They said that by adopting policies favouring increased localisation and manufacturing, Pakistan can further strengthen its automotive sector.

IMC also emphasised the need for continued long-term policies for hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and battery-powered hybrid electric vehicles (BHEVs) in accordance with the AIDEP 21-26 framework. The company has recently expanded its footprint beyond Pakistan, initiating vehicle exports to Oceanian countries, raw material exports to Egypt, and providing human resources expertise to Japan.

The local auto industry views the influx of used car imports as unfavourable. Industry stakeholders urge the government to devise policies that prevent the excessive and illegal import of used cars, which can undermine local production, hinder job creation and negatively impact the national economy.