Affordable, low-maintenance bikes attract government employees, delivery drivers and students
RAWALPINDI:
Following the continued rise in oil prices, the sale and demand for electric and battery motorcycles have increased significantly on the open market.
Government employees, takeaway delivery drivers and ride-hailing users have increasingly started using e-bikes as a cost-effective alternative.
Electric bicycles and battery-powered scooters are now commonly seen on city streets, being ridden in large numbers by students, young people and delivery drivers. Motorcycle dealers have also started offering electric scooters and bikes, both with cash and installment payments.
The trend of using electric scooters is growing especially among students, working women and other women commuters.
In Pakistan, prices of electric bicycles (e-bikes) vary depending on the brand, battery capacity and features. They are usually available from around Rs 170,000 to over Rs 600,000.
Popular brands include Jolta, Pakzon, United and Vlektra. These bikes help reduce fuel consumption and have lower maintenance costs as they do not require gasoline or motor oil.
Each model offers a different range. A fully charged electric scooter can travel up to about 100 kilometers, while a single battery usually provides a range of about 80 kilometers. Another advantage is that these vehicles operate almost silently.
Dealers say the electric scooters are offered with a full warranty and can be purchased in installments with an advance payment of Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000. Monthly installments typically range between Rs 5,000 and Rs 10,000, depending on the initial payment, while most dealers offer payment plans of up to one year.
Users say that electric bikes significantly reduce fuel costs. Haris Ali, an electric bike user, said dealers claim that a battery can travel 80 to 100 kilometers while a full electric charge can exceed 100 kilometers, but in reality the effective range is closer to 50 kilometers before the bike starts losing power. However, he added that since the bikes do not run on gasoline or diesel, owners save money on engine tune-up and maintenance.
Worker Ayesha Sultana said she bought a low-capacity scooter in installments and has saved substantially on gasoline costs. Dealers also report that many motorcyclists have sold their gasoline motorcycles and switched to electric models.
