Lahore’s roads already carry electric buses. On 26 February 2026, they gained a new sight: electric taxis handed over to men and women who will drive them for a living.
For anyone weighing a switch to EV driving, the scheme raises two practical questions. How much do you actually pay, and is the next round open?
Quick Overview
- Launched 26 February 2026 by the Chief Minister as Pakistan’s first provincial e-taxi scheme.
- First phase: 1,100 electric vehicles, backed by a reported Rs4 billion subsidy.
- More than 30 per cent of vehicles are reserved for women.
- Reports describe interest-free instalments spread over five years.
- Down-payment support figures differ between reports. See below.
What Is the E-Taxi Scheme?
It is part of the Punjab Transport Vision 2030. Drivers acquire an electric taxi on subsidised terms and run it on ride-hailing platforms or as a taxi.
Each vehicle carries a panic button linked to the Punjab Safe Cities Authority. Reports mention GPS tracking, smart meters and a range of about 250 to 300 km per charge.
Who Is Eligible?
The scheme’s eligibility notice was not available to us in full. Reports list:
- Permanent resident of Punjab with a valid CNIC
- Punjab domicile
- Driving licence
- Selection from available e-taxi models listed on the portal
Women applicants get priority through the reserved quota. Check the portal for age limits and income conditions.
Subsidy and Instalments
Two different down-payment descriptions were published on launch day:
- Aaj News reported the government covering 60 per cent of the down payment for women and 50 per cent for men.
- ProPakistani reported the government covering 15 per cent, with the vehicle costing the driver around Rs690,000.
These cannot both be right. We have not seen a primary notice that settles it, so we will not quote a single figure. Confirm on the official portal before you commit.
The Rs4 billion subsidy figure is widely repeated. An earlier PakWheels report mentioned Rs3.5 billion.
How to Apply
- Open the official portal (reports name e-taxi.punjab.gov.pk). Avoid look-alike sites.
- Register with your CNIC.
- Choose from the listed e-taxi models.
- Upload your documents and submit.
- Await verification. Shortlisted applicants are told by SMS or email.
- Complete financing formalities before delivery.
Documents Required
- CNIC
- Punjab domicile certificate
- Driving licence
- Any documents specified during application
Important 2026 Status
First phase launched; later phases announced but no confirmed new application window.
Keys were handed to selected beneficiaries at the 26 February event. The Chief Minister also announced plans to expand EV transport, including green buses in every tehsil. We found no official notice of a second e-taxi application round.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using unofficial portals that charge “registration fees”
- Quoting a down payment from a blog without checking the portal
- Ignoring running costs such as charging, insurance and tracker fees
- Assuming a female quota guarantees selection
- Overlooking resale restrictions that may apply to subsidised vehicles
Frequently Asked Questions
Can women apply?
Yes. More than 30 per cent of vehicles are reserved for women.
Do I pay interest?
Reports describe interest-free instalments over five years. Read the finance agreement.
Where does the taxi operate?
The pilot began in Lahore, with a gradual rollout planned for other districts.
Is there another EV scheme?
Yes, the student electric bike plan. See the Punjab student bike scheme guide.
Can I get a business loan to run a fleet?
Look at Asaan Karobar Finance for SME financing.
Final Takeaway
The e-taxi scheme is real and offers an affordable way into EV driving. The details vary by report, so rely on the portal and the bank’s paperwork, not on a headline.
This is an independent informational guide and is not an official government website.
