As fuel prices surge in Pakistan due to escalating conflict in the Middle East, the financial dynamics of operating sport utility vehicles (SUVs) are evolving, with plug-in hybrids and extended-range electric vehicles (EVs) emerging as the more economic alternatives.
Recent official data on petrol prices in Pakistan indicates that ex-depot motor spirit (petrol) is currently priced at approximately Rs321 per litre, highlighting the risky nature of daily transportation amidst the fluctuations in imported fuel costs.
Chery Master Pakistan Director advocates for EVs
Director of Sales and Marketing at Chery Master Pakistan Syed Asif Ahmed noted that with petrol prices reaching unprecedented levels, the financial rationale for driving an SUV is rapidly shifting towards plug-in hybrids and extended-range EVs.
Ahmed emphasised that the conversation surrounding new energy vehicles (NEVs) should extend beyond mere environmental considerations.
“For Pakistani commuters, particularly those who drive SUVs, this has become a clear economic choice,” he stated.
“When fuel prices escalate to such heights, the expense of operating a traditional petrol SUV becomes a significant strain on household finances.”
According to Ahmed, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) and Range-Extender Electric Vehicles (REEVs) now provide the most viable solution, noting that a standard petrol-powered C-segment SUV, which achieves around 10 kilometres per litre, incurs a cost of approximately Rs32 per kilometre to operate at current petrol prices.
In contrast, even a conventional hybrid, with an estimated fuel efficiency of about 18 km per litre, results in costs nearing Rs18 per kilometre.
“While a hybrid enhances efficiency, it remains susceptible to fluctuations in petrol prices,” Ahmed added. “The risk is diminished, but not entirely eliminated.”
He further stated that plug-in hybrids and REEVs change this scenario by enabling the majority of daily urban travel to be conducted using electricity rather than petrol.
Using the Chery Tiggo 9 PHEV as an illustration, he pointed out that this SUV is equipped with a 34.46 kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery and provides an electric range of 170km under the NEDC cycle.
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