Automark

EV adoption is indeed a process, not an event. EV adoption is a gradual process involving multiple stakeholders and phases, and managing the end-of-life (EoL) phase for electric vehicle (EV) batteries is a critical part of this journey. An effective strategy for EV battery disposal, recycling, or repurposing must consider sustainability, cost efficiency, and minimal environmental impact.

1. Battery Health Monitoring and Diagnosis

Using advanced diagnostic tools to monitor the battery health in real-time ensures that issues are detected before they lead to major failures. This can reduce downtime, lower replacement costs, and improve overall EV reliability.

Key Areas for Monitoring:

• State of Health (SoH): Tracks the battery’s ability to hold charge compared to its original capacity. It provides an indication of how much the battery has degraded over time.
• State of Charge (SoC): Measures the current energy level of the battery as a percentage of its total capacity.
• Temperature Monitoring: Excessive heat during charging or discharging can degrade battery components. Monitoring temperature helps to avoid damage caused by overheating.
• Cycle Count: The number of charging and discharging cycles a battery has undergone. Batteries have a limited cycle life, and tracking this helps in estimating remaining useful life.
• Internal Resistance: Increases in internal resistance can signal the onset of aging in battery cells, affecting performance.

Advanced Tools for Battery Monitoring:

• On-board Diagnostics (OBD): Provides real-time battery health data through the vehicle’s on-board systems.
• Telematics and Cloud-based Monitoring: EV fleets can use telematics to remotely monitor battery health, enabling fleet managers to plan for maintenance or replacements.
• Machine Learning Algorithms: These algorithms can predict battery degradation patterns based on historical data, offering insights into when battery maintenance or replacement will be needed.

2. End-of-Life Scenario for EV Batteries

As electric vehicle (EV) batteries age and gradually lose capacity and eventually reach a point where they can no longer efficiently power the vehicle. Typically, EV batteries last between 10-20 years or up to 100,000-150,000 miles, depending on factors like usage patterns, battery technology, and environmental conditions. While advancements in battery technology and management systems are continuously improving battery life, effective strategies for end-of-life management are critical for sustainability and minimizing environmental impact.

Key Considerations in Battery Degradation

1. Capacity Loss: Over time, lithium-ion batteries lose their ability to hold a charge, which results in decreased driving range. Most EV manufacturers consider a battery at the end of its life when it loses about 70-80% of its original capacity.
2. Gradual Degradation: Battery degradation happens gradually, influenced by factors such as:

2. Driving habits: Aggressive driving or frequent deep discharges can speed up degradation.
3. Charging practices: Fast charging often, especially at high currents, can reduce battery life.
4. Temperature extremes: Both very high and very low temperatures negatively impact battery health. Efficient thermal management systems help mitigate this effect.
5. Maintenance and Software Updates: Proper maintenance and periodic software updates to the Battery Management System (BMS) can extend battery life by optimizing cell balancing, controlling charge/discharge cycles, and managing temperatures.

3. Battery Second-Life Applications

When an EV battery no longer provides efficient power for vehicle propulsion but still holds a significant charge, repurposing it for less demanding applications is a highly sustainable option. These second-life applications help extend the battery’s lifespan and reduce environmental impact.

Key Second-Life Applications:

• Energy Storage Systems (ESS):
  • Repurposed batteries can be integrated into home energy storage systems, where they store electricity from renewable sources like solar panels for later use.
  • Commercial Backup Power: Batteries can be used as backup power sources for businesses, especially during peak load times or in areas prone to power outages.
  • Grid Balancing and Stabilization: Utility companies can use second-life batteries to help stabilize the grid by storing excess energy during low-demand periods and releasing it during high-demand periods. This is crucial for integrating intermittent renewable energy sources like solar and wind into the grid.
  • Micro grid and Off-grid Solutions: In remote or rural areas without consistent grid access, second-life batteries can be part of small-scale power systems (microgrids) that provide reliable electricity.

Benefits of Second-Life Applications:

• Cost Efficiency: Repurposing batteries for ESS is often cheaper than manufacturing new energy storage devices, allowing consumers or businesses to save on energy storage solutions.
• Extended Battery Lifespan: Second-life use can add several years of productive life to a battery, reducing the frequency with which new batteries need to be manufactured.
• Environmental Impact Reduction: By repurposing, we delay the recycling or disposal process, thereby lowering the immediate environmental impact.

4.Recycling

When second-life applications are not feasible due to poor battery health or significant degradation, recycling is the next best step. Recycling ensures the recovery of valuable materials and minimizes environmental harm.Up to 90% of the materials in an EV battery can be recycled, reducing the need for new raw materials and minimizing environmental impact.

Key Considerations for Recycling:

• Material Recovery: EV batteries contain precious metals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and manganese. Recycling allows for the recovery of these materials, reducing the need for new mining and the associated environmental impacts.
• Safety: Due to the hazardous nature of battery materials, batteries should be sent to certified recycling facilities that adhere to strict safety and environmental guidelines. Proper disposal helps prevent issues like toxic chemical leaks or fires.
• Reducing Landfill Waste: Recycling keeps EV batteries out of landfills, where they would otherwise contribute to soil and water contamination through leakage of harmful chemicals.

Advanced Recycling Techniques:

• Hydrometallurgy: This process uses liquid solvents to extract valuable metals from battery cells, with high recovery rates for critical materials like lithium and cobalt.
• Pyro metallurgy: This method involves high-temperature smelting to recover metals. Though less efficient than hydrometallurgy, it can be useful for large-scale recycling operations.
• Direct Recycling: This emerging technique aims to recycle battery components without fully breaking them down, preserving the original structure of materials and potentially allowing for a more cost-effective recycling process.

5. Collaboration with Recycling Partners

To ensure batteries are recycled efficiently and sustainably, it is essential to form strategic partnerships with certified battery recycling companies. These partnerships can streamline the process and help manage costs.

Key Strategies for Collaboration:

• Select Certified and Reputable Recycling Partners: Work with companies that have the appropriate certifications for safe battery handling and recycling. These certifications ensure compliance with environmental regulations and industry best practices.
• Establish a Battery Return and Recycling Program: Partner with recycling firms to create a convenient battery return system for consumers and businesses. This can involve setting up collection points at dealerships or service centers where consumers can easily drop off their old batteries.
• Integrate with the Supply Chain: Recycling partners can become part of the supply chain for new battery manufacturing. Recovered materials like lithium and nickel can be supplied back to battery manufacturers, creating a circular economy.
• Data Sharing and Transparency: Maintain open communication with recycling partners to ensure data transparency on the recycling process, recovery rates, and environmental impact. This can be part of sustainability reporting for both the EV manufacturer and the recycler.
• Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

Recycling is crucial because mining the raw materials for EV batteries, such as lithium and cobalt, has significant environmental consequences. Additionally, the production of EV batteries is energy-intensive and produces CO2 emissions. Recycling reduces the demand for newly mined materials, lowers the environmental footprint, and complies with emerging regulations. For example, the European Union has set stringent recycling targets for manufacturers, mandating the recovery of specific percentages of critical metals by 2027 and 2031.

Importance of Battery Recycling

Recycling EV batteries helps reduce the environmental impact associated with raw material extraction and battery production. It also supports the circular economy by reintegrating valuable materials back into the supply chain, reducing the need for new batteries and lessening the overall environmental burden.

EV Battery Recycling Future in Pakistan

The future of the battery recycling industry in Pakistan holds significant potential, particularly with the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and the growing emphasis on sustainable practices. Here’s an overview of the key factors that will shape the industry:

1. Growing EV Market

As Pakistan continues to adopt EVs, driven by government policies like the Electric Vehicle Policy 2020-2025, the demand for lithium-ion batteries will rise. With more EVs on the road, there will eventually be a higher volume of batteries reaching the end of their life cycles, creating a demand for efficient recycling solutions.

2. Policy and Regulatory Support

The success of the battery recycling industry in Pakistan will largely depend on supportive government policies and regulations. Pakistan’s EV policy already encourages the local manufacturing and assembly of EVs, and it could be expanded to include specific guidelines for battery recycling. Developing stringent regulations on battery disposal and incentivizing recycling efforts can drive the growth of this sector.

3. Environmental and Economic Imperatives

Battery recycling is essential for mitigating the environmental impacts of mining raw materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel. In Pakistan, where environmental concerns are increasingly important, the recycling industry can play a crucial role in reducing waste and minimizing the environmental footprint of the EV market.

Economically, the battery recycling industry can contribute to job creation and the development of new business opportunities. By recovering valuable materials, recycling can reduce reliance on imports of raw materials, strengthening local supply chains and supporting Pakistan’s industrial base.

4. Technological Advancements

The future of battery recycling in Pakistan will also be influenced by advancements in recycling technologies. Developing efficient and cost-effective methods for recycling lithium-ion batteries is crucial. As global technologies evolve, Pakistan can benefit from adopting and adapting these innovations to suit local needs.

Collaborations with international partners, research institutions, and private sector investments will be vital in bringing cutting-edge recycling technologies to Pakistan. This can also help in setting up infrastructure and facilities dedicated to battery recycling.

5. Public Awareness and Industry Collaboration

Public awareness about the importance of recycling and the environmental benefits of EVs is critical for the success of the battery recycling industry. Educational campaigns and industry collaboration can promote responsible disposal and recycling practices among consumers and businesses.

Industry collaboration, particularly between automakers, battery manufacturers, and recycling companies, can create a more cohesive ecosystem for battery recycling. Establishing partnerships and shared facilities could help in scaling up the recycling industry.

6. Potential Challenges

Despite the opportunities, there are challenges that Pakistan might face in developing a robust battery recycling industry, including:

• Infrastructure Gaps: Developing the necessary infrastructure for battery collection, transportation, and recycling can be challenging, especially in remote areas.
• High Initial Costs: Setting up recycling facilities requires significant investment, and the initial costs might be a barrier.
• Regulatory and Compliance Issues: Ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and maintaining high standards in recycling practices will be essential.

Key Takeaway:

The future of the battery recycling industry in Pakistan holds great potential, driven by the increasing adoption of EVs and a growing emphasis on sustainability. With a balanced approach that includes policy support, technological innovation, industry collaboration, and public awareness, Pakistan can establish an efficient battery recycling industry. This industry will not only bolster the EV market but also contribute to environmental preservation and foster economic growth.

This exclusive article has been published in Automark Magazine’s October-2024 printed/digital edition. Written by @Asif Mehmood

Dear readers, while writing in my article published in Automark edition September 2024, titled Enhancing Educational Relevance: A Fresh Perspective on the Industrial Advisor Board. Universities and technical institutes often collaborate with the government and industries in research work which forms policies and regulations related to sustainability, safety, and emission standards. It is an important collaboration between industry, academia, and students to enable businesses not to be out of date with regulatory changes so that compliance can be smoothened. In the highly regulated automobile industry, being abreast with the latest standards in emissions, safety, and environmental issues determines market access and repute.

Such partnerships thereby contribute to the development of a skilled workforce, increase the productivity of industries, and lead to the enrichment of quality of life. The question now is will we arm our youth with the technical skills necessary for them to become assets or let them drift to become liabilities to themselves, their families, and country? The choice is ours. If we want them to become meaningful contributors to society, the only direction to take is to nurture them properly through quality technical education. It is in collaboration with these institutions that the industry would be better positioned to predict these changes in regulations and hence prepare for them. Such collaboration is crucial, particularly in the development of safety standards for emerging technologies like autonomous driving and ADAS, wherein universities are on the front lines researching the reliability and safety, and ethical implications of autonomy that sooner inform emerging regulation.

The automotive world is a veritable pillar in the world economy, with very tough challenges but also particularly exciting opportunities. Today, these partnerships between industry and academia have never been so important to be competitive. This paper explores how it benefits both parts and, more specifically, how academia can draw on them to benefit growth and innovation within the automotive world. The interrelation between the automotive sector and academic institutions develops an important engine of progress, defining the future of automotive engineering while creating further growth. In terms of collaboration, both the industries as well as academia gain from each other through shared research, talent development, and knowledge exchange. This creates expertise as well as an innovative boost for both partners. Where the car industry meets points like sustainability, automation, or electrification, such a partnership is surely essential. These new technologies therefore go a long way in developing new technologies, creating a skilled workforce, and even achieving an increasingly more sustainable and competitive automotive future.

Benefits of Industry-Academia Partnerships: Industry-academia interaction can stimulate growth in innovation into pioneering technologies and products. It could lead to innovations that will appear in the advanced level of materials, energy-efficient powertrains, and safety systems. Companies can fine-tune their competitive edge in the global market by unifying strengths from both sectors. For instance, while collaboration allows businesses to innovate new products and services that not only fit the changing demands of a consumer but also reduce costs and improve the efficiency of operations. What is more, these partnerships create a steady pipeline of skilled professionals ready for the challenges of the automotive industry. Students learn by participatingin internships, co-ops, and research projects, ensuring graduation with just the right set of skills and knowledge required to succeed in this highly evolving sector. Not merely part of a growth industry, these collaborations help to solve key issues for society, such as climate change, energy security, and better transportation infrastructure. It would mean that sustainable transportation solutions can be created through collaborative industry and academic work, emission cutting and energy efficiency boost for a more sustainable future.

Key Areas of Collaboration: Globalization has left virtually every country with a strong fight for a more prominent share of the market. This is the reason that most governments create policies to be competitive, innovative, and economically ahead of the rest. Given this context, there is no doubt that industry-academia partnerships are the necessities, mainly in fields such as the automobile sector. Collaboration in research activities is helping both parties overcome some of the biggest challenges which the industry faces, including development of electric vehicles, on-road autonomous drive technologies, green materials, and advanced manufacturing techniques. University-industry collaboration has been identified as one of the innovation drivers. Researchers from the academic side provide up-to-date theoretical knowledge, while partners from the industrial side provide know-how and can apply ideas to real challenges. Academic and industry involvement will provide access to new, up-to-date research findings and developing technologies as they are learned. Industry also provides valuable data in areas such as the performance of their vehicles, consumer behavior, and future market trends. This synchronization not only identifies new opportunities but also works on new upcoming obstacles. In addition, many automotive companies invest in academic research by providing funding for critical breakthroughs that will ensure innovative solutions can transition from the lab to the marketplace. Industry experts often interact with academia through the organization of workshops, lectures, and seminars besides providing financial support. Such interaction fosters an exchange of knowledge environment that could help build the upcoming engineers while continuing learning and cooperative efforts.

Talent Development: This industry gives the students practical experience through internships and co-op programs. Co-op programs combine studying and working so that the student can gain work experience in his field of study. What mainly makes studying in a co-op program interesting is that it allows students to build a clear career path by offering them practical work experience besides studying, while academia prepares them for roles in industry with specialized curricula and research opportunities. Many automotive companies collaborate with universities in their internship programs and cooperative education offerings, thereby allowing students to get hands-on experience working on actual engineering problems. Academic institutions also provide executive education programs that upscale industry professionals in this very field of interest. The programs frequently run under the themes of digital transformation, sustainability, and emerging technologies, keeping professionals ahead of the game where changes occur at a fantastic pace in the automotive landscape. This therefore makes the educational programs relevant and up-to-date with the current industrial trends, which enables the graduates to possess the set of skills obtained and enter the workforce fresh and updated. A very perfect example is the provision by Toyota investment in T-TEP institutes: they offer sizable investment through funding both training and hardware, plus ongoing support. So far, under this program, thousands of students have graduated, and around 60% of them have been absorbed into the Toyota Network, a very encouraging outcome that underlines the positive societal impact of such collaborations.

Policy and Regulation: Academia plays a crucial role in research-based inputs useful in framing important decisions made by policymakers in the automotive sector. It encompasses policy pieces on emissions standards, safety regulation, and infrastructure planning. They can push for policies that will boost growth and innovation in the sector through close collaboration between industry and academia. For example, such partnerships would go on to lobby government incentives for adopting electric vehicles or push for more investment in autonomous driving. It is refreshing then to note that a confluence of industry and academia could help drive technological progress and propel a more forward-thinking and sustainable automotive future.
If these strategies are involved, then collaborating problems can be turned into mutual opportunities that would push growth and innovation in ways that will benefit both academia and industry. However, despite these great promises of industry-academia partnerships, challenges exist, including cultural, timelines, and priorities differences between industry and academia. However, with these being sorted out, and a mutual culture developed between industry and academia, a symbiotic relationship must be created so that innovation and success are cherished. Over such obstacles, industry and academia can

• Established lines of communication: This helps ensure a mutual understanding of the mutual goals as well as expectations through regular communication and cooperation.
• Establish joint metrics: Establishing joint metrics of success can align the interests of the industry and academics, which signals benefitting both parties.
• Infrastructure investment: Investment in research facilities and other support services for students to enhance collaboration and ensure the success of partnerships.

Takeaway from this article:

Stronger ties with the academe would reap rich dividends for the automobile industry. Cooperation in research, talent development, and policy will give a boost to innovation and sustainable competitiveness in the automotive landscape. We must identify and then align the expertise of these technical institutes with industrial needs. In the face of globalization, almost all automobile companies have aligned their own industrial need with technical institute expertise across the world and ensured that fresh graduates were better equipped to understand industry norms and requirements. This is the right step forward for technical and vocational education, and it has a fair chance to elevate Pakistan and its people at the world level. It is now the time to act. By these steps, we will not only build a stronger interface of industry and academia but will also enrich the earning potential for Pakistani youths-that will bring much-needed strength to the economy of Pakistan in the near future.

This exclusive article has been published in Automark Magazine’s October-2024 printed and digital edition. Written by #Muhammad Rafique

Dear Readers in an increasingly globalized economy, foreign investment plays a pivotal role in the growth and development of emerging markets like Pakistan. However, the integration of foreign partners into the local economy brings with it a set of socio-economic responsibilities that must be addressed by both regulators and businesses. This article explores the socio-economic responsibilities of regulators and foreign partners in Pakistan, particularly concerning customer advance payments for products in production / yet to be supplied, the steps taken to safeguard customer interests, and the key performance indicators (KPIs) that can be established to protect all stakeholders involved.

Socio-Economic Responsibilities of Regulators

Regulators in Pakistan, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), have a crucial role in ensuring a stable and conducive environment for foreign investment. Their responsibilities encompass several key areas:

1. Establishing a Legal Framework: Regulators must develop and enforce a comprehensive legal framework that governs foreign investments. This framework should align with international standards while addressing local needs, covering areas such as labor laws, environmental regulations, and corporate governance.
2. Monitoring Compliance: Continuous oversight is essential to ensure that foreign partners adhere to established regulations. This includes conducting regular audits, inspections, and requiring detailed reporting from businesses to maintain accountability.
3. Consumer Protection: Protecting consumers from unfair practices is a fundamental responsibility of regulators. This involves implementing policies that ensure product safety, transparency in pricing, and mechanisms for dispute resolution.
4. Promoting Fair Competition: Regulators must prevent monopolistic practices and promote a competitive market environment. This ensures that foreign partners do not exploit their market position to the detriment of local businesses and consumers.
5. Facilitating Economic Development: Regulators should create an environment that encourages foreign investment while simultaneously promoting local businesses. This can be achieved through incentives for foreign partners to invest in local infrastructure and community development projects.

Socio-Economic Responsibilities of Foreign Partners

Foreign partners operating in Pakistan also bear significant socio-economic responsibilities, which include:

1. Compliance with Local Laws: Foreign businesses must adhere to the legal framework established by regulators, including labor laws, environmental regulations, and tax obligations. Compliance fosters trust and stability in the business environment.
2. Economic Contribution: Foreign partners should actively contribute to the local economy by creating jobs, investing in local suppliers, and supporting local businesses. This not only stimulates economic growth but also enhances the overall socio-economic landscape.
3. Community Engagement: Engaging with local communities is essential for foreign partners. This includes investing in social initiatives that improve the quality of life for residents, suchas education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. By fostering positive relationships with local communities, foreign partners can enhance their reputation and ensure sustainable operations.

4. Transparency and Accountability: Foreign partners should maintain transparency in their operations, particularly regarding financial transactions and business practices. This includes clear communication about advance payments, production timelines, and any potential risks involved. Accountability mechanisms should be in place to address any grievances from customers or local stakeholders.
5. Sustainability Practices: Implementing sustainable business practices is crucial for foreign partners. This involves minimizing environmental impact, ensuring ethical labor practices, and contributing to the long-term well-being of the communities in which they operate. Sustainable practices not only protect the environment but also enhance the brand image and customer loyalty.

Protecting Customer Interests: The Role of KPIs

To safeguard customer interests, particularly in scenarios involving advance payments for products in production, it is essential to establish clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). These KPIs serve as measurable values that indicate how effectively a company is achieving its key business objectives. Here are some critical KPIs that can be implemented:

1. On-Time Delivery Rate: This KPI measures the percentage of products delivered on or before the promised date. A high on-time delivery rate indicates reliability and helps build customer trust, especially when advance payments are involved.
2. Quality Assurance Metrics: Establishing quality control KPIs, such as defect rates or customer satisfaction scores, ensures that products meet the required standards. This is vital for maintaining customer confidence, particularly when they have made advance payments.
3. Customer Complaint Resolution Time: This KPI tracks the average time taken to resolve customer complaints. A shorter resolution time reflects a company’s commitment to customer service and can help mitigate dissatisfaction related to advance payments.
4. Financial Transparency Index: This KPI assesses the level of transparency in financial dealings, including how advance payments are managed. It can include metrics such as the frequency of financial reporting and the clarity of communication regarding payment usage.
5. Production Efficiency Ratio: This KPI measures the efficiency of the production process, indicating how well resources are utilized to meet production targets. High efficiency can lead to timely product delivery, which is crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction.
6. Customer Retention Rate: This KPI measures the percentage of customers who continue to do business with the company over a specific period. A high retention rate suggests that customers are satisfied with the products and services, which is particularly important when advance payments are involved.
7. Supplier Performance Metrics: For companies relying on external suppliers, tracking supplier performance through KPIs such as delivery accuracy and quality of materials can help ensure that production timelines are met, thereby protecting customer interests.

Conclusion

In conclusion, foreign partners must prioritize building strong relationships with local communities, ensuring transparency and accountability, and implementing sustainable practices to foster a positive business environment. By doing so, they not only enhance their reputation but also contribute to the overall well-being of the regions in which they operate.

Moreover, establishing clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) is essential for protecting customer interests, especially in scenarios involving advance payments. By focusing on metrics such as on-time delivery rates, quality assurance, customer complaint resolution times, financial transparency, production efficiency, customer retention, and supplier performance, companies can effectively monitor their performance and make necessary adjustments to meet customer expectations.

Ultimately, a commitment to these principles will lead to improved customer satisfaction, stronger community ties, and sustainable business growth. Foreign partners that embrace these strategies will be better positioned to navigate the complexities of international operations while ensuring that they meet the needs of both their customers and the communities they serve.

This exclusive article has been published in Automark Magazine’s October-2024 printed and digital edition. Written by #Aqeel Bashir

Nothing describes the amity between the man and the machine better than a good long ride, one after the other, whenever possible. The man hunched over the handle bars, sitting in the saddle for long hours, I wonder if it is a sedentary lifestyle or a sporty one. He is not on the road but a part of it and the surroundings at the same time.

As if my recent Kashmir trip, (where I explored Ganga Top in Bagh District, Lasdana, Toli Pir Top and Banjosa lake) had not been enough. I set out on another amazing ride from Islamabad after a brief gap of three days. The destination was my hometown, Joharabad in District Khushab and since I was riding my bike so I had to take the highway skirting through Chakwal and Kallar Kahar to reach Joharabad, because unfortunate as it is, motorcycles are not allowed on the Motorway. It was a travel in time as I was on the Chakwal-Kallar Kahar road after 27 years, which was the regular old route before M2 was opened for the traffic.

The plan was to ride nonstop till Kallar Kahar and then proceed on the Kallar Kahar-Cho a’ Saiden Shah road to visit Kattas Raj Temples. Lucky for me that the August weather was not in its usual frenzy so the ride and the Kattas Temple visit was quite comfortable despite the sunshine.

Kattas Raj Temples have a great significance in the Hindu religion and the place witnessed regular visits of yatrees from all over India before the partition. After partition, the temples were abandoned and rather went into oblivion. This was my second visit of the temples, the first one being in 2006 when the whole area gave a deserted look, the historic pavements covered in leaves that had been lying there for decades.

After 2007 some uplift work was done here upon special request of the Indian government and later in 2017, upon the orders of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, a lot of renovation work was carried out here so the site is now in a very decent shape for its visitors. Hindu yatrees visit the area in November every year, regularly since 2012.

The history of Kattas Raj Temples dates back to the year 700AD when its construction was completed. Legend has it that lord Shiva was in deep grief after the death of his wife Satti and he arrived at thisplace in deep sorrow, and as he wept his tears filled the area that turned into a pond. There are twelve temples here, almost all still in a very good condition despite all these years, which speaks for the brilliant craftsmanship of the engineers of the time.

The pond has a depth of about 25 to 30 feet and followers of Hindu faith believe that their sins are washed away if the take bath in the pond water. The pond had almost dried up by the year 2010-11, whereafter a tube-well was installed close to it, which now regularly supplies fresh water to the pond. Bathing in the pond is prohibited for the visitors though.

 On one side lies the Berragi Haveli where they used to have a library at the time. Decorative artwork adorns the ceiling of Ramachandra temple, and the colours are eye catching. Havan Kund, where Hindus would always keep a fire burning, now gets a fire that remains alive throughout the day although outside the temple. I always feel that historic buildings are veiled by a sense of mystery. A visit of such enigmatic relics tends to flash an image in your mindas though you have traveled back in time.

Kattas Temples should be preserved as a heritage asset, it is unfortunate how neglected this place has been in the past. As against last time, I was happy to see that now the site is under proper management. I captured some video clips with brief history of the temples, which will be available on my youtube channel “7th gear by Talal.”

I resumed my journey after the visit of the temples. Lunch at the TDCP resort Kallar Kahar was as delicious as the ride had been fabulous. This was my first ride on the bike through the Kattha mountain range as well and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Some of the mountains here present an amazing look, like the walls of a huge fort.

The sun was fading in my eyes as I reached the outskirts of Joharabad. It was a day long trip of about 270km as I reached my hometown, but my journey is far from over!

This exclusive article has been published in Automark Magazine’s October-2024 printed and digital edition. Written by #Talal Hussain Malik

The United States, a highly developed mixed economy, continues to lead as the world’s largest economy by nominal GDP, and is second only to China in terms of purchasing power parity (PPP). In 2024, the U.S. holds the sixth highest per capita GDP (nominal) and eighth by PPP, reflecting its strong economic output and high standard of living.

Key to this economic strength is the nation’s productivity, bolstered by a well-developed transportation infrastructure and rich natural resources. American households enjoy high average incomes, ranking sixth among Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) member states. Despite having the highest median household income in 2021, income inequality remains one of the highest among developed nations. The U.S. plays a pivotal role in global trade, being the world’s largest importer and the second largest exporter, with free trade agreements spanning key partners such as Canada, Mexico, and South Korea.

The flexibility of the U.S. labor market, though offering fewer job security guarantees due to its hire-and-fire policies, adds to the economy’s adaptability and efficiency in responding to market demands.

The Aftermarket Auto Parts Industry in the U.S.

One sector witnessing continuous growth is the U.S. aftermarket auto parts industry. As of 2022, this market was valued at USD 18.2 billion, with projections indicating growth to USD 22.7 billion by 2032. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.50% from 2024 to 2032. The consistent rise in vehicle ownership and the aging fleet of cars in the U.S. contribute to the expansion of the aftermarket industry. Consumers increasingly seek cost-effective alternatives for vehicle maintenance, repair, and upgrades, making aftermarket parts an essential segment of the broader automotive market.

Furthermore, the tractor market, which reached a value of USD 23.7 billion in 2021, is expected to grow modestly, reaching USD 24.5 billion by 2027. This slow but steady expansion underscores the importance of agricultural machinery within the U.S. economy and aligns with the broader growth of industrial sectors.

Key Economic Indicators:

• Population: 333 million
• GDP Annual Growth: 3.1%
• GDP Per Capita: USD 76,239
• Inflation Rate: 2.5%
• Interest Rate: 5.50%
• Government Debt to GDP Ratio: 123.8%
• Import Tariffs: 1.5% to 14% (Vary by parts)

Key findings

The products with greatest export potential from United States to World are Motor vehicles for the transport of <10 persons, Soya beans, and Human & animal blood, blood fractions & immunological products. Soya beans shows the largest absolute difference between potential and actual exports in value terms, leaving room to realize additional exports worth $27 bn. (Source: ITC)

Transportation Options

• By Air: The travel duration between these cities in a non-stop flight is usually  around 16h 35 m. Karachi to New York flights 
• By Sea:The quickest way to get from Karachi to New York by ship will take about 31 days 18h and departs from Port Qasim (PKBQM) and arrives into New York (USNYC). There are vessels departing 2-4 times a week on this route.

Key Events in USA 2024~2025

Upcoming Exhibitions

In conclusion, while the U.S. economy continues to thrive, with sustained growth and innovation in key sectors like the aftermarket auto parts industry, challenges such as income inequality and fluctuating market conditions remain. However, the flexibility of its labor market, strong trade relationships, and technological advancements are expected to keep the U.S. economy on a growth trajectory for years to come.

By Mashood Khan
Director – Mehran Commercial Enterprises – Expert Auto Sector / Former Chairman PAAPAM

This exclusive article has been published in Automark Magazine’s October-2024 printed and digital edition.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) focuses that the use of fossil fuels, especially unabated coal, must be phased out with in next ten years, if we have to achieve a net-zero target in line with the goals set out in the Paris Agreement. COP-28 as one of its key outcomes also finally emphasized the need to transition away from fossil fuels, calling countries to accelerate their energy transition programs. With decreasing cost of technologies, innovative financing mechanisms and global trends, decarbonization efforts not only improve the environment profile, but they also make a better economic case over the longer run.

However, despite these opportunities, “energy transition has a cost and logistical needs” that are imperative to drive this transition. Further, the poly-crisis-driven by Post COVID recovery challenges, regional turmoil, supply chain issues and economicus-certainties has limited fiscal space of underdeveloped and developing countries that are entrapped in debt burdens. Many of the Asian as well as some of the Pacific countries have faced significant socio-economic losses further decreasing the capital availability for a swift and effective energy transition. In the backdrop of these opportunities and challenges, it is high time for these countries to develop coordinate plans and joint response for mobilizing the necessary finance and analyze the needed reforms of the international financial structure.

Energy insecurity and climate vulnerability of Asian Region. Asia is a home of almost 4.5 billion people that account for almost 60% of the globa lpopulation. However, ongoing economic crisis the region is facing a three-fold challenge of socio-economic development, energy security and environmental sustainability. According to Asian Development Bank (ADB)around 350 million people in Asia does not have access to reliable electricity while 150 million does not have access to it at all. The increasing energy demand limited non-renewable resources and high reliance on fossil fuels (68% fossil fuels in power generation), the region is highly exposed to price volatility and economic risks. Now at the same time, the region is also confronting an increasingly challenging climate landscape, characterized by morefrequent and severe climate-related disasters such as heatwaves, cyclones, droughts and floods.
The region currently accounts for 60% of global emissions from power generation, leading to increased climate vulnerability. This is particularly concerning as it compounds the existing vulnerabilities of a region that is home to some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.

Pakistan is listed in developing country with tough political and economic conditions, posing a serious challenge to develop a policy that supports the energy transition from fossil fuels to renewables. Pakistan is blessed with a huge 3425.796 GW renewable energy potential including wind (346 GW), solar (2,900 GW), hydro (59,000 GW), geothermal (100 GW) and biomass (20 GW) even though Pakistan is producing electricity mostly from imported fossil fuels (coal, furnace and natural gas) with 58.8% share followed by 25.8% hydro, 8.6% nuclear and only 6.8% from solar and wind sources. Renewables contribute only 32.6% in the total energy mix of Pakistan.

Ministry of Energy (Power Division), Government of Pakistan developed a policy entitled, “Alternative and Renewable Energy (ARE) Policy 2019” with the aim of increasing the renewable capacity by 30% by 2030 with most of the electricity produced from indigenous energy sources including biomass, wind and solar. However, this target cannot be achieved with the present transmission and distribution network. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) claims that except for China, the countries under its Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) project would have to invest from USD 25 billion to USD 49 billion to upgrade their power transmission and distribution infrastructure. The big challenge Pakistan is facing the ageing power grid infrastructure with limited network capacity is a major bottleneck for supporting the integration of renewables while maintaining grid stability. To enable the power grid to evacuate power from both renewable and non-renewable energy projects, more investment is needed to upgrade the power network infrastructure, including its modernization and digitalization.

Energy storage is also vital for a renewable-powered energy future. It bridges the gap between intermittent renewable energy generation and stable energy demand in terms of energy supply and grid reliability. Nowadays, batteries have gained considerable ground as the power of many of the technologies that will enable the transition towards net zero. Research, development and infrastructure investments in energy storage are vital for the widespread adoption of renewable energy.

Energy Efficiency has also gained global attention among policymakers in recognition of its pivotal role in enhancing energy security, affordability and environmental sustainability. Addressing Pakistan’s energy challenges also requires a strategic shift towards energy efficiency. In response to growing energy demand, the focus has traditionally remained on capacity expansion rather than conservation. This approach has led to increased capacity payments and inefficient energy use. Enhancing energy efficiency presents a significant opportunity to curtail energy imports, offering a cost-effective solution to address national energy challenges. This approach not only mitigates environmental concerns but also eases production costs and fosters economic growth.

The International Energy Agency (IEC) reveals that energy efficiency, the ‘first fuel’ in clean energy transitions, offers swift, cost-effective CO2 mitigation, reducing energy bills and enhancing energy security. Institute for European Energy and Climate Policy released a recent study, ‘’Energy Efficiency visible in the energy mix’. If something isn’t visible, it won’t be prioritized, which is one of the reasons energy efficiency does not come first in planning, policy-making and investment. For energy efficiency to be considered on a level playing field with other energy resources, energy efficiency improvements need to be monitored and then energy efficiency data needs to be integrated into the overall energy picture. The energy transition will also open doors for green job creation, enable businesses, attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth.
As a climatevulnerable nation, Pakistan can mobilize substantial global funding under a ‘Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETPs)’. These partnerships facilitate targeted and catalytic funding, mobilizing resources from various channels to support the energy transition.This requires a comprehensive action plan based on a holistic approach along with clear targets, timelines, policy continuity and stakeholder engagement. In this way, Pakistan can pave the way for a sustainable and green energy future.

This exclusive article has been published in Automark Magazine’s October-2024 printed and digital edition. Written by #Asif Masood