Xiaomi EVs arrive in Pakistan: Air Link potential partnership sparks excitement

Xiaomi’s electric cars, specifically the SU7 Max model, have been spotted at Karachi port, fueling speculation about Air Link’s plans to launch electric vehicles (EVs) in Pakistan

KARACHI: In a significant development, Xiaomi’s electric cars, specifically the SU7 Max model, have been spotted at Karachi port, fueling speculation about Air Link’s plans to launch electric vehicles (EVs) in Pakistan. The move is expected to revolutionize the country’s automotive landscape.

Air Link, a leading manufacturer of Xiaomi cell phones in Pakistan, has not officially confirmed the development. However, industry insiders suggest that the company is poised to expand its partnership with Xiaomi beyond smart phones.

Xiaomi’s foray into the EV market began in March this year with the launch of its first electric vehicle, the SU7, in Beijing. The basic model is priced at 215,900 yuan (approximately PKR 8.55 million). Xiaomi’s CEO, Lei Jun, has stated that he’s putting his reputation on the line with the SU7 EV, challenging Chinese car giant BYD and Elon Musk’s Tesla.

Pakistan’s EV market is gaining momentum, with Master Motors introducing high-end Changan Deepal EVs and DFML assembling affordable Honri 2.0 and 3.0 models. Chinese automotive giant BYD has also entered the Pakistani market.

Air Link’s CEO, Muzzaffar Hayat Piracha, has expressed his company’s vision for technology transfer and positioning Pakistan as a global technological hub. He aims to expand into EVs and advance IoT products, driving foreign exchange through exports.

This development marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s automotive and technology sectors, with potential implications for the country’s economy and environment. As the EV market continues to evolve, consumers can expect exciting new options and innovations in the coming years.

It was also not clear how many units were imported, and whether this was a precursor to a wider plan to assemble the vehicle in Pakistan.

Back in China, where the sector has grown rapidly, Xiaomi launched its first electric vehicle in Beijing in March this year. After electric two- and three-wheelers, Pakistan is now seeing the influx of electric cars.

Master Motors introduced its high-end Changan’s Deepal EVs while DFML began assembling relatively affordable EVs – Honri 2.0 and 3.0. Chinese automotive giant BYD has also made its official entry into the Pakistani market.

Recently, GNEXT Technologies, Apple’s authorised distributor for Pakistan, tapped Air Link Communication Limited as its premium partner in the country.

Air Link’s share price Monday settled at Rs130.32 on Monday after a gain of Rs3.68 during trading.

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