| Brand / Model | Battery | Typical Price (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| Sazgar EV Rickshaw | Lithium / Lead-acid | 520,000 – 650,000 |
| Raftaar / Raftaar Eco Ride | Lithium-ion | 480,000 – 550,000 |
| Green Wheels E-Rickshaw | Lead-acid | 460,000 – 500,000 |
| United Electric Rickshaw | Lithium / Lead | 500,000 – 620,000 |
| Super Power E-Rickshaw | Lead-acid | 440,000 – 480,000 |
| BF Technologies E-Rickshaw | Lead / Lithium | 380,000 – 520,000 |
| Crown EV Rickshaw | Lead / Lithium | 400,000 – 550,000 |
| JAQ Motors E-Rickshaw | LiFePO4 Li-ion | 450,000 – 580,000 |
| Raksha EV Rickshaw | Lithium Polymer | 600,000 – 750,000 |
Fuel costs are rising, and the familiar roar of the traditional auto-rickshaw engine is slowly being replaced by a quieter hum. The streets of Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad are seeing a shift. Electric rickshaws, or E-rickshaws, are no longer a futuristic concept; they are a practical reality for drivers looking to cut operational costs and commuters seeking a smoother ride.
If you are considering making the switch to an electric three-wheeler, cost is likely your primary concern. The initial investment varies significantly based on the brand, battery technology, and passenger vs. cargo capability. This guide breaks down the current market landscape, detailing the prices and features of the most popular electric rickshaw models available in Pakistan today.
Why the Shift to Electric Rickshaws?
Before looking at the price tags, it is helpful to understand the value proposition. The upfront cost of an electric rickshaw might seem comparable to or slightly higher than a petrol-powered CNG rickshaw, but the long-term math tells a different story.
- Running Costs: Electricity is significantly cheaper per kilometer than petrol or CNG.
- Maintenance: E-rickshaws have fewer moving parts. There is no engine oil to change, no spark plugs to clean, and no gears to grind, leading to drastically reduced maintenance bills.
- Environment: With zero tailpipe emissions, these vehicles contribute to cleaner air in Pakistan’s smog-prone urban centers.
Popular Electric Rickshaw Models and Their Prices
The market offers a wide range of options, from budget-friendly lead-acid models to high-performance lithium-ion variants. Here is a breakdown of the leading brands and their typical price points.
High-End and Established Brands
For those looking for established durability and recognized brand names, companies like Sazgar and United have entered the EV space with robust offerings.
Sazgar EV Rickshaw
One of the most well-known names in the industry, Sazgar offers premium electric three-wheelers.
- Battery: Lithium / Lead-acid
- Price Range: PKR 520,000 – 650,000
United Electric Rickshaw
United brings its extensive automotive experience to the EV market with reliable build quality.
- Battery: Lithium / Lead
- Price Range: PKR 500,000 – 620,000
Raftaar / Raftaar Eco Ride
Focusing on efficiency, Raftaar provides a balance between cost and modern technology.
- Battery: Lithium-ion
- Price Range: PKR 480,000 – 550,000
JAQ Motors E-Rickshaw
Utilizing advanced LiFePO4 technology, JAQ Motors focuses on battery longevity and safety.
- Battery: LiFePO4 Li-ion
- Price Range: PKR 450,000 – 580,000
Raksha EV Rickshaw
Positioned as a premium option, Raksha models often come with higher-end polymer battery setups.
- Battery: Lithium Polymer
- Price Range: PKR 600,000 – 750,000
Mid-Range and Budget-Friendly Options
If you are looking for a lower barrier to entry, several brands offer reliable vehicles that utilize cost-effective lead-acid batteries or simplified designs.
Green Wheels E-Rickshaw
A solid contender for budget-conscious buyers who still want reliable performance.
- Battery: Lead-acid
- Price Range: PKR 460,000 – 500,000
Super Power E-Rickshaw
Known for their motorcycles, Super Power’s entry into the rickshaw market is competitively priced.
- Battery: Lead-acid
- Price Range: PKR 440,000 – 480,000
BF Technologies E-Rickshaw
Offering flexibility between battery types, BF Technologies covers a wide price spectrum.
- Battery: Lead / Lithium
- Price Range: PKR 380,000 – 520,000
Crown EV Rickshaw
Another giant in the parts and motorcycle industry, Crown offers versatile options.
- Battery: Lead / Lithium
- Price Range: PKR 400,000 – 550,000
Detailed Model Comparisons: Range and Features
Beyond the brand name, specific models offer different advantages depending on whether you need to transport passengers or cargo. The following table highlights specific models known for their efficiency and utility.
E-Ride Lite
- Price: PKR 220,000
- Battery: Lead Acid
- Range: 80 km
- Best For: Short urban trips. This is a compact, easy-to-maintain option perfect for navigating tight city streets.
Green Wheels Green Cargo
- Price: PKR 250,000
- Battery: Lead Acid
- Range: 90 km
- Best For: Small businesses. It is an affordable and reliable workhorse for local deliveries.
EcoMove Passenger
- Price: PKR 270,000
- Battery: Lithium-ion
- Range: 110 km
- Best For: Taxi services. It features comfortable seating and a stylish design to attract passengers.
Pak-E-Rick Pak-E Cargo
- Price: PKR 280,000
- Battery: Lithium-ion
- Range: 120 km
- Best For: Heavy-duty logistics. With fast charging and a durable frame, it handles heavier loads with ease.
AutoVolt Pro
- Price: PKR 300,000
- Battery: Lithium-ion
- Range: 130 km
- Best For: Long-distance operators. This premium build offers an advanced battery and low maintenance requirements for extended daily use.
Lead-Acid vs. Lithium-Ion: What Should You Choose?
When reviewing the prices above, you will notice a trend: Lithium-ion models are more expensive than Lead-acid models. Making the right choice depends on your daily needs.
Lead-Acid Batteries
These are the traditional batteries found in most older vehicles.
- Pros: Lower initial purchase price; technology is well-understood by local mechanics.
- Cons: Heavier, take longer to charge (8-10 hours), and have a shorter lifespan (usually 6-12 months before requiring replacement).
Lithium-Ion Batteries
These are the modern standard for electric vehicles (EVs).
- Pros: Lightweight, fast charging (2-4 hours), longer lifespan (3-5 years), and consistent power output even as the battery drains.
- Cons: Higher upfront cost.
If you have the capital, investing in a Lithium-ion model (like the AutoVolt Pro or Raftaar) often results in better savings over three years because you won’t be replacing batteries every few months. However, if your initial budget is tight, a Lead-acid model like the E-Ride Lite is a viable way to get started.
Making the Switch
The electric rickshaw market in Pakistan is diverse, catering to everyone from cargo haulers to passenger transport services. While prices range from an accessible PKR 220,000 for basic models to PKR 750,000 for premium specs, the operational savings remain a constant advantage across the board.
By choosing the right model for your specific range and load requirements, you can secure a vehicle that not only saves money daily but also contributes to a greener, quieter Pakistan.