Islamabad Police Swap Gasoline Fleet for BYD Electric SUVs
Pakistan's capital police force has replaced fifty gasoline vehicles with electric SUVs, aiming to cut fuel costs and improve patrol efficiency.
The Islamabad Police department has officially taken delivery of fifty electric vehicles, marking a significant shift in its operational fleet. On September 8, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif handed over the keys to senior police officials, including the Inspector General of Islamabad Police, Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi. This transfer of assets signals a broader move by Pakistani law enforcement to integrate electric mobility into daily duties, moving away from traditional internal combustion engines for its patrol units.
The new fleet consists entirely of BYD Atto 2 sub-compact SUVs, a model chosen for its balance of performance and cost. According to officials, the switch is driven by substantial economic benefits. The department estimates that these electric cars will save approximately 34 million Pakistani rupees in fuel expenses every month. This reduction in operating costs is expected to offset the initial purchase price of each vehicle within about ten and a half months, making the transition financially viable for the public sector.
Fleet efficiency drives the decision
Beyond the immediate savings on fuel, the police force anticipates that the electric vehicles will enhance their operational capabilities. The new cars are assigned to the recently established Capital Patrol force, a unit comprising 200 personnel. By utilizing faster-charging and more responsive electric powertrains, the department expects to reduce response times during emergencies. This improvement in field effectiveness is a key part of the strategy to modernize police operations in the capital.
Technical specs meet patrol needs
The BYD Atto 2 is equipped with a front-mounted electric motor that generates 130 kW of power and 290 Nm of torque. This setup allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds, providing sufficient agility for urban traffic. The car runs on a 45.12 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, which supports a driving range of up to 380 km on a single charge under standard testing conditions. For police operations, the ability to recharge from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes is a practical advantage, minimizing downtime during long shifts.
Local assembly plans for BYD
The acquisition of these vehicles also aligns with broader industry developments in Pakistan. Mega Motor Company, BYD’s official partner in the country, is preparing to open a local assembly plant in Gharo, Sindh. Scheduled to begin operations by the end of 2026, this facility aims to produce new energy vehicles for the local market. As the Atto 2 is currently BYD’s most affordable model in Pakistan, it is a strong candidate for local production, which could further reduce costs and increase availability for government and private buyers alike.
