Punjab Sets Launch Date for E‑Taxi Scheme in January 2025

The Punjab government has officially announced the launch of its E‑Taxi Scheme on January 17, 2025, starting with an initial rollout of 20,000 electric taxis in Lahore, and later expanding to Faisalabad and Rawalpindi. Spearheaded by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, this landmark initiative aims to empower the youth of Punjab through interest-free ownership plans, promoting eco-friendly transport while tackling unemployment.

Under the scheme, Honri VC20 and VC30 electric vehicles will be provided at prices 40% below market rate, estimated between PKR 2.4 million and PKR 3 million. These vehicles will be available on easy, interest-free installments, with monthly repayments directly deducted from ride-hailing earnings, ensuring financial convenience and accountability for drivers.

The project goes beyond vehicle provision—it aims to transform Punjab’s urban landscape by promoting green mobility. Solar-powered EV charging stations will be installed every 3 kilometers across Lahore, with plans to extend coverage across other major cities. The government is collaborating with local assembly partners to reduce production costs and create additional jobs within the province.

To apply, candidates must be Punjab residents aged 21 to 55, possess a valid LTV license, and have a clean driving record. Special quotas are reserved for women, disabled individuals, rural applicants, and those trained by TEVTA or NAVTTC. Applications can be submitted online, with required documents including CNIC, LTV license, photo, and proof of residence.

The financial model offers 3–5 year repayment plans with down payments as low as 10%, aiming to make ownership achievable for lower- and middle-income individuals. The government has also introduced tax incentives and fee waivers to make electric taxis more affordable.

The program was initially launched as a pilot phase with 1,100 electric taxis and limited charging infrastructure. After strong public interest and successful implementation, the project was scaled up to its current target of 20,000 vehicles. Additional infrastructure, like GPS-enabled tracking systems and driver safety features, has been added to ensure a modern, tech-friendly experience.

More than 60,000 applications have already been received, indicating a massive public response. The government expects this scheme to not only reduce urban pollution and fuel dependency but also to create thousands of jobs, especially for young people and women.

This E‑Taxi Scheme reflects a visionary step toward economic upliftment, sustainable transport, and a cleaner Punjab. With the official rollout beginning January 17, the province is set to become a national leader in green public mobility.

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