KARACHI: Pakistan marked a historic automotive milestone when a specialized Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) vessel, the MV Grande Shanghai arrived at the Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited (KGTML) carrying a massive consignment of over 2,000 electric vehicles (EVs).
The successful arrival of the first-ever Ro-Ro EV shipment reflects the efforts of Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, in promoting modern and efficient maritime trade. The shipment largely consists of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) from the Chinese automaker BYD. The arrival of this fleet drastically accelerates the availability of popular EV models like the BYD Atto 2 (starting around PKR 72.9 lakh), Atto 3 (around PKR 89 lakh), and the Shark 6 pickup across local dealerships in cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.
This marks the first time Pakistan has used the RoRo method for auto imports, allowing vehicles to be driven directly off the ship to bypass crane loading and significantly lower transport times and costs. Describing the development as a historic moment for Pakistan’s maritime industry, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry claimed it would promote modern and efficient maritime trade.
He said the arrival of the first Ro-Ro shipment of electric vehicles represents a major breakthrough in the country’s shipping and logistics sector. He noted that Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) shipping allows vehicles to be driven directly onto and off the vessel using built-in ramps, eliminating the need for cranes or container handling.
This method is faster, more efficient, and more cost-effective than conventional container shipping. Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the successful handling of the first Ro-Ro EV shipment at Karachi Port demonstrates Pakistan’s growing capability to facilitate modern maritime trade. He added that the expansion of advanced port infrastructure and shipping services will further strengthen the country’s trade potential and improve logistics efficiency.
The minister emphasized that Karachi Port is steadily moving toward international standards by adopting modern shipping practices and enhancing port facilities, paving the way for increased global connectivity and trade competitiveness.
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