6 Simple steps to buy BitCoin, Ethereum or any other alt-coin from Pakistan easily and legally
Step 1: Make account on urdubit.com. Verify yourself
Step 2: Put money in urdubit and buy some bitcoins
Step 3: Download a wallet in your phone and withdraw the coins in your wallet.
Step 4: Open a account on poloniex.com and verify yourself.
Step 5: Transfer your bitcoin in Poloniex.
Step 6: Buy and trade in any currency on Poloniex
More than 50 per cent of Pakistan’s two wheeler market is based on unbranded Chinese models. Atlas Honda holds 45 per cent market share while Yamaha and Suzuki have been struggling hard to increase their market share but so far their efforts have proved futile.
One of the main reasons of unimpressive sales of Yamaha and Suzuki is absence of 70cc and 100cc models in their production lines while in contrast Honda CD 70cc virtually rules the market despite being costlier than its Chinese made rivals.
For example, Suzuki Access 125cc is the proud winner of India’s prestigious Overdrive Viewer’s Choice Scooter of the Year Award for 2016. The new all-rounder Access 125 was highly evaluated for its state of the art engine, fuel efficiency and power acceleration derived from the latest technology developed by Suzuki, as well as its pleasing body color and its design. Viewers and readers vote online and by phone for their favorite vehicles which shows the popularity of the Access 125.
As per international media reports, Yamaha’s sales in the US have taken a hit, similar to trends Harley-Davidson had reported in the company’s sales report for the second quarter of 2017. New motorcycle sales in the US were low due to a slowdown in the industry, and lack of buyer interest in motorcycles.
Now, Yamaha seems to be reporting a similar fate with the Japanese two-wheeler giant’s sales in the US. Not surprisingly, markets in Asia continue to be on the rise, leading Yamaha’s overall international sales. Overall, Yamaha has reported a 6.6 per cent increase in net sales of motorcycles for the first half of 2017.
Unit sales in emerging markets such as Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, and Taiwan increased, and despite decreasing in Indonesia due to the market slump there, the unit sales figure increased overall. Net sales increased, and operating income increased significantly thanks to the effects of product mix improvements and cost reductions, a release from Yamaha said.
In India, Yamaha sold nearly 200,000 two-wheelers from April to June 2017, but overall growth has remained flat for India Yamaha this year.
In India, Yamaha is all set to launch the new Fazer 250, the full-faired version of its quarter-litre FZ25. Globally, the most anticipated Yamaha launch will be unveiled at the EICMA show later this year, when Yamaha unveils the MT-07-based adventure tourer.
When contacted, expert of two-wheelers market in Pakistan, Mohammad Sabir Sheikh was of the view that Honda is a Seth (owner) based company who has the ability of making decisions daily as per requirement while in contrast Suzuki and Yamaha lack any decision making power. The Pakistani management of Suzuki and Yamaha need to indulge in a lengthy process of getting approval for any future decision.
He said the Pakistani management of Suzuki and Yamaha at lower level is very weak and they do not have expertise to understand how to compete in the market and take timely decisions. In Honda upper and lower management are more active than two Japanese bike makers.
Sabir said the dealership network of Honda is far better than Yamaha and Suzuki. At Akbar Road, the management of dealership network of Honda looks more aggressive and agile than the dealers of Yamaha and Suzuki who professionally are very weak.
He said there is no service network of Yamaha in the biggest market of Karachi while Suzuki has only one company based workshop. The service network of Atlas Honda dealers (3S) is very effective and more reliable than Yamaha and Suzuki.
Consumers complain lack of availability of spare parts (genuine and non genuine) of Yamaha and Suzuki while customers do not feel problem in getting almost all the quality of Honda parts in any market.
There is no authentic dealer for leasing of the bikes directly instead of banks while Honda 3S dealers offer direct leasing facility, he said.
Some Chinese companies in bike industry have achieved tremendous success as they are Seth (owner) based companies and take decisions on daily basis, he said.
The Seth based companies easily handle sales tax audit issue by greasing the palm of tax officials. If the Seth faces any hurdles in clearance of CKD kits at port stage then the Seth immediately takes action what to do next to overcome problem, Sabir said.
The Seth based companies also take quick decision relating to price increase/decrease based on market situation, he said.
Sales get depressed due to uncertain political and economic situation. Here again the Seth based companies offer incentive package to the dealers as well as customers to avert any immediate sales loss. Contrary to that, Yamaha and Suzuki send emails to Japan for getting approval for any decision. By the time reply comes from the Japan management the market situation changes, he said.
Sabir said Honda has been infamous for selling outdated models in Pakistan and the company may suffer in future, but fortunately it is ruling the market.
Branded companies should reduce dealership network all over the country and select those dealers who can make investment and must be experienced and they have ideally located 3S showrooms, he said.
Sabir recalled that Yamaha Motor had dissolved its local joint venture in 2008. The Japanese bike giant had re-entered in Pakistan in April 2015 in a market dominated by 70cc bikes with an aim to provide latest engine and technology transfer claims.
“Neither the customers could get latest engine technology nor technology transfer was witnessed,” he said adding that even the exports prospect of Yamaha bike from Pakistan also appears bleak. Technology transfer and export of bikes open new job avenues.
He said the government should consider of allowing only those manufacturers who can make Pakistan a hub for export of items to other countries rather than just producing bikes in the country.
Yamaha Motor had initially invested Rs 5.3 billion. As on June 30, 2016, the company had 232 employees which were 200 when it started its operation in 2015. At that time the plant’s production capacity was 40,000 units per year.
Yamaha, one of the largest motorcycle makers in the world, in 2015 had aimed to produce up to 400,000 units annually by 2020.
All the tall claims by the top Japanese and local management of the company are now proving a bit hollow as the market dynamics have changed a lot, Sabir said.
However, to stay in the market, Yamaha Motor Pakistan introduced its third variant in the 125cc engine category in April 2017 but this time the target is rural consumers.
Yamaha previous models – YBR125 and YBR 125G – though started on a good not but failed to lure rural buyers mainly. These two models remained limited to urban population as the company had mainly targeted the youth.
The company has introduced the third model at price of Rs 115,500 aimed at giving a tough time to its competitors. The company’s executive again made a big claim of producing 150,000 units a year and can increase production capacity in case additional demand arrives.
The new Yamaha model has made some inroads which is evident from April onward sales. Sales of Yamaha bike was 1,589 in April 2017 which swelled to 2,025 in May 2017 and came down to 1,020 in June 2016. In July 2017, sales again rose to 1,731 units as compared to 939 units in July 2016.
Yamaha sales in 2016-2017 remained flat at 13,282 units versus 16,109 units in 2015-2016. According to the data of Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA), sale of Suzuki bikes in 2016-2017 stood at 18,478 units as compared to 17,456 units in 201-2016. In the first month of new fiscal year Suzuki sales stood at 1,545 units as compared to 1,423 units in 2016.
Sabir Sheikh said future sales scenario for both Yamaha and Suzuki may remain tight as Honda has increased its production capacity followed by introduction of a new 150cc model at a price of Rs 160,000 in May 2017.
Honda is all set to achieve production of 1.35 million units in coming years after recording production of 960,640 units in 2016-2017. He said Atlas Honda has been continuously breaking its monthly production and sales record in the outgoing fiscal year. The last highest ever production and sales record by an individual Japanese company was 90,800 and 93,060 units achieved in May 2017.
Surprisingly the second highest assembler of two wheeler in the country is a Chinese company United Auto Motorcycle instead of Yamaha and Suzuki, he said.
United Auto has also been achieving monthly production and sales laurels by breaking its previous records in 2016-2017. The company has achieved highest ever production and sales in November 2016 by with 32,773 units each.
He said even the production and sales figures of Suzuki and Yamaha are far lower than other Chinese competitors like Super Power, Super Star, Unique, Road Prince, etc.
This exclusive article published in Monthly AutoMark Magazine’s September-217 printed edition
The Al-Haj FAW Group has launched Pakistan’s first locally assembled Chinese car, FAW V2. This smart hatchback was first introduced in Pakistan in January 2015andsince then the Al-Haj FAW Group only imported the CBUs (Completely Built Units)from China and sold them in Pakistan. However, FAW V2 will now be assembledin Pakistan and the announcement for the local assemblyof FAW V2 was made by the Managing Director of Al-Haj FAW Group, Mr. Bilal Afridi,at an event held in Karachion 12th of August.
This new development will bring a refreshing change to the hatchback segment of Pakistan’s car market as FAW V2 will offer technological brilliance, better build quality, powerful performance and advanced safety features, all in one package in an affordable yet stylish hatchback.
The launch event of the locally assembled FAW V2 was hosted by the Managing Director of Al-Haj FAW Group. It included automotive dealers and vendors from all over Pakistan, media representative and the members of Al-Haj FAW group among theattendees. Mr. Bilal Afridi addressed the audience and expressed his gratitude towards all the stakeholders on the successful launch of the first-ever locally assembled Chinese car in Pakistan. He mentioned that the group had invested 2.5 billion rupees to setup the company and now 1.3 billion rupees are being invested to establish and improve the local assembly of FAW vehicles in Pakistan.
The Chinese representative of FAW Company, Mr. Yu Chuntian was also present at the event. He appreciated the efforts of Al-Haj FAW Group and hinted at the strengthening of ties between the Chinese-State-Owned FAW Company and the Pakistan’s Al-Haj Group which will open new avenues of investment in the automotive industry of Pakistan and improve the quality of FAW vehicles even more.
The Director Marketing Division of Al-Haj FAW Group, Mr. Farhan Hafiztold the media about the capacity of the local assembly unit of FAW vehicles in Pakistan and said that the assembly unit had the capacity of producing 10,000 light vehicles per annum and the Group aims at making full use of their assembly unit’s capacity. The Al-Haj FAW Groupalso plans to take their unit’s production levels to 15000 vehicles produced per annum by the year 2020.
Let’s review the locally assembled FAW V2 and explore what makes it one of the finest hatchbacks available in the Pakistan car market.
FAW V2 has a modern design that makes it completely unique and different to other vehicles available in the hatchback segment. While it boasts astrong and stylish exterior, its interior is laced with cutting-edgefeatures to ensure maximum comfort fordriver and passengers.
The exterior of FAW V2 pleases the aesthetics of the onlookers and itsexceptional build quality makes itready for any road challenge.A number of standout exterior features are available as standard in FAW V2, which other companies only offer in the most expensive version of their vehicles.
Listed below are state-of-the-art exterior features of FAW V2:
The interior of FAW V2 is designed to offer a luxurious experience with some top-of-the-line features. From power steering and electric power windows to a digital odometer and central control panel, the interior of FAW V2 depicts sheer excellence and class. FAW V2 also provides a unique feature of engine cover sound insulation which keeps the cabin of the vehicle quiet and makes the ride of V2 comfortable and stress-free.
Some other attractive features of V2’s interior include:
The interior of FAW V2 is both stylish and utility-based. Unlike many other hatchbacks that are available in Pakistan, the FAW V2 also offers sufficient head room and leg roomfor the passengers. It also offers adequate cargo space so that you can set off on a journey without having to worry about carrying your extra luggage.
FAW V2 is equipped with a powerfulVCT-i 1.3 engine that produces 67 horsepower and 120Nm of torque. It is based on modern day automotive technologies and feeds the pleasure and power of a big car in a small hatchback. The EURO4 technology makes the engine highly fuel-efficient and offers a fuel average of 15-16km per litre in city and 18-19km per litre on the highways.
FAW V2 is claimed to be the safest hatchback available in the Pakistani market, all thanks to itsstate-of-the-art safety features:
FAW V2 guarantees maximum safety for all passengers ina vehicle. It’s smart and active safety technologies play an important role in event of a dangerous road accident and prevent the passengers from serious injuries.
The locally assembled FAW V2 is now available in Pakistan. The price of FAW V2 has not been changed and the locally assembled V2 will be available at the price of Rs. 1069,000.
By Syed Sarim Raza / M. Hanif Memon
The new automotive policy was formally launched in March 2016, it was announced by Mr. Miftah Ismail, Chairman of the Board of Investment. The policy was aimed at enhancing consumer welfare boosting competition and attracting new player, these are all positive objectives / desires. The negative aspect of the policy is that Government tried to penalized the existing players all of them are Japanese well known brands globally and played a significant role in the development of local auto industry.
Unfortunately as a nation, we are not able to visualize frequent global developments and cannot match ourselves with the development speed of the rest of the world as a result we try to control / hide our own shortcoming thru formulation and adoption of polices which are based on biased approach. Our this psychology can also be seen in New Auto Policy 2016-21 but net result is a total failure and confusion.
It was claimed in the policy that it envisages development plans for the automobile industry in the country to facilitation higher volumes, attract investment, ensure enhanced competition and offer high quality in line with emerging opportunities within the country and the region. The prime importance in the policy has been given to the consumer welfare through provision of quality, safety choice and value for money. One of the objectives was that Auto Industry Development Committee AIDC shall also be reorganized on a logical ground.
It was also mentioned / noticed in the policy that at present, customers have to pay the full amount at the time of booking of cars inclusive of duties and taxes where as the cars are delivered to customer after several months. In cars any price escalation should be paid by the customer before taking delivery, the customers are required to pay price as on the date of delivery there is no institutional mechanism to respond to consumer feed back as vehicles manufacturer do not take note of complaints made by a consumer about quality and frequent escalation of car prices. To address this issue in Auto Development Policy certain measures were also included.
Furthermore it was the wish of Board of Investment and Ministry of Industries & Production that well known European car makers should come to Pakistan. In this connection Board of Investment Chairman, Mr. Miftah Ismail himself announced in November 2016, that Renault will start producing vehicle in Pakistan in 2018. He confirmed the French car manufacturer had already submitted its application to the Government for the manufacture of vehicle. The application is now under process at the Board of Investment and the Engineering Development Board. He also informed that this will be first time that a European car manufacture will set up a plant in Pakistan. Even in last year during Eid ul Azha holiday, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and Mr. Miftah Ismail personally visited France and met the top leadership of Renault. Now there is total silence about the progress of Renault project in Pakistan. As per informed sources Renault feels that New Auto Policy do not offer anything substantial for a new car project in Pakistan and now having no interest in this market. German car maker Audi a company of Volkswagen Group reportedly has approached the Board of Investment with a proposal to start an OEM plant in Pakistan and submitted a letter of intent to the Board of Investment for consideration.
At the same time Volkswagen commercial vehicles is also showed interest to setup a manufacturing / assembly plant in Pakistan. It is learnt that Audi – Volkswagen Group wanted to invest in MKD / SKD (Medium Knocked Down / Semi Knocked Down) model with only assembly in Pakistan. However, that proposal did not match with the criteria for incentives as laid down in auto policy for new entrants.
The most primary objective of the policy was to bring new investment and create healthy competition among the players which tend to be in the benefit of consumer. Almost one and half year has been passed but not a single objective is achieved as yet. On the contrary due to this policy a fresh new investment of about USD 660 million was rolled back by Pak Suzuki Motor Company in March / April 2017.
In December 2016, Pak Suzuki managing director Hirofumi Nagao called on then Finance Minister to discuss his company future investment plan and inform him that Pak Suzuki is ready to invest 660 million in Pakistan to set up a second plant. The new project will be completed within two years and may start production by the end 2018. But nothing was offered to the existing players in New Automotive Policy 2016-21 so Pak Suzuki did not make fresh investment in new plant.
The second failure of the policy was witnessed in the case of Dewan Farooque Motors Limited which has applied for the revival of its car assembly plant and requested for grant of Brownfield Investment under Auto Development Policy for the production of Shahzore (LCV) and Sangyang (SUV’s) vehicles. There was some confusion / reservation of Engineering Development Board about the total period of closure of the DFML assembly plant. The matter was put on the 24th meeting of the Auto Industry Development Committee (AIDC). The committee held a detailed discussion on the application of DFML and unanimously approved the grant of Brownfield status to DFML. But Engineering Development Board refused to implement this approval on the pretext that this approval can be effective only after the suitable amendment in the auto policy but presently no change is possible since it is mentioned in the policy that it can be revised after two years while it is only in its first year of implementation. Resultantly all activities at DFML plant was suspended.
Simultaneously M/s. Al-Haj FAW Motors (Pvt) Ltd, manufacturer of trucks, prime mover, light commercial vehicles and vans had also applied for a Greenfield status to manufacture cars. EDB had sought advice from the committee keeping in view the investment categories i.e Greenfield Investment or Brownfield Investment as provided in the New Auto Policy. The committee was of the view that the policy in the present form and shape had no room for declaring an existing player Greenfield Investment.
Auto Industry Development Committee (AIDC) 25th meeting was held on 18th May 2017. So far it was the last meeting of the Auto Industry Development Committee (AIDC). It seems that Auto Industry Development Committee (AIDC) has no role in implementation / decision taken under the new automotive policy 2016 – 21 by the ministry of industry and production. Although it was mentioned in the auto policy that Auto Industry Development Committee (AIDC) shall continue to play its advisory role. Furthermore in a surprise move Government dissolved the Engineering Development Board for alleged involvement of its staff in corruption and malpractices as hurdles in the way of billions of dollars in investment flows into automobile sector, in June 2017. Engineering Development Board was not promoting industry, it was protecting it. According to Garry Pussell – Ashraf Khan Study out of the 1006 products which Engineering Development Board listed as locally produced 91 percent had only one producer, 405 percent had two producers and only 4 percent had three or more producers. This indicated a highly protective regime that has badly hurt the consumers, particularly in auto sector.
It is observed that after the disbanding of Engineering Development Board and mysterious silence of Auto Industry Development Committee (AIDC) Secretary of Industry and Production and Secretary Board of Investment took direct charge of implementation of New Auto Policy 2016 – 21. They both act very swiftly, which was a very positive sign. They invited all new entrants in a hurriedly called meeting on 6th June 2017 in Islamabad at ministry of Industries and Production office, having no prefixed agenda.
Interestingly the team of engineering Development Board which is supposed to be disband were also present and responding all the question and quarries raised by new entrants. In this meeting the following companies were present.
Subsequently second meeting was also called on 12th July, 2017, In between two meetings. Ministry has granted Greenfield status to the following new entrants.
If we analyzed all company’s affairs, very minutely which were granted Greenfield status. We will find a very discouraging situation.
The ministry of industries has awarded Greenfield investment status to Regal Automobile Industries Ltd for establishing its plant in Pakistan. Tayaba Motors has challenged the Greenfield status of Regal Automobiles Industries Ltd in the court of law, claiming it was already manufacturing same variants of pickups and passenger vans.
Master Motors, on the other hand, has challenged the process initiated by the Engineering Development Board to grant Greenfield status to Foton JW Auto Park (Pvt) Ltd under the new policy, which provides attractive tax and duty concessions for new industry players. It argued that Foton JW Auto Park (Pvt) Ltd was already manufacturing trucks and it could not be treated for Greenfield Investment under the new policy. Master Motors further claimed that there was no joint venture with the Chinese company according to records of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan.
As a result of work on projects being developed by Regal Automobile Industries (Pvt) Ltd and Foton JW Auto Park (Pvt) Ltd had come to a halt due to the court cases.
It is very strange in case of the conflict between Master Motors and Foton JW Auto Park (Pvt) Ltd that Shahnawaz Motors which is one of the oldest automobile trading company in Pakistan, represents Daimler AG Germany and authorized general distributor of Mercedes Benz Passenger Car since 1958, also claim to be an authorized distributor of Foton Motors Group China. Could we understand that New Auto Policy 2016-21 is making back lash. It discourages local assembly and encourages CBU imports because no one is challenging Shahnawaz Motors.
Same case with the Regal Automobile Industries (Pvt) Ltd. they have already established their dealers network and selling vehicle thru CBU Imports. Nobody can make objection on their trading business nobody can stop them but unfortunate they stopped the further establishment of their automobile plant due to court cases. How new auto policy can help them out to start production in Pakistan.
It was also learnt through informed sources that Hyundai Nishat Motors (Pvt) Ltd and Kia Lucky Motors Pakistan Ltd did not sign the new entrant agreement which is a mandatory to be signed between the Government and the investor before the start of plant. The reason being they and their principals, having certain reservation upon this agreement’s contents. Surprisingly Ministry keeps these documents very secrete. In my opinion the draft of this agreement should be public so every new investor should know the bindings / responsibilities before the entry. Furthermore both companies are thinking to import the vehicle in CBU condition again question arises that unknowingly, New Auto Policy 2016 – 21 is pushing the new entrant towards CBU imports rather to attract facilitate them for the early establishment of the assembly plant.
Now only remain the United Motors (Pvt) Ltd who is in high esteem and hopeful that their plant will be ready for the assembly of vehicles by the end of December 2017. According to informed sources situation is not very straight for United Motors (Pvt) Ltd too.
Habib Rafiq (Pvt) Ltd – HRL Motors is among the new entrants but they did not make any tangible progress towards the development of assembly plant. However they unveil their first CBU imported car Zotye Z100 in Pakistan on a very high price tag and without any after sale service or spare parts availability arrangements. I do not think that they have any plan to enter in CKD business in near future. The two other new entrants’ i.e Pak-China Motors (Pvt) Ltd and Cavalier Automotive Corporation (Pvt) Ltd has made very little progress in this direction and they have to go a long way.
However Khalid Mushtaq Motors (Pvt) Ltd is consistently progressing well. It is reported that their assembly plant building is almost complete. They are planning to launch their local product in any time in first quarter of 2018.
By our special correspondence from Lahore and published in Monthly AutoMark Magazine’s September-2017 printed edition
By: Syed Sarim Raza
Toyota is the name of confidence, limitless passion and motoring excellence for car enthusiasts in Pakistan. Toyota is one of the most famous car brands in Pakistan and has enjoyed some spectacular sales figures for a large variety of its vehicles in Pakistan over the years. From large sedans in GLi, XLi and Altis to off-roaders in Land Cruiser Prado, Hilux and Fortuner, Toyota has left no stone unturned when it comes to providing a wide variety of vehicles to car buyers in Pakistan.
Toyota has redefined motoring excellencein Pakistan by offering advanced technology in its cars that are available in the market at highly affordable prices. The brand is particularly famous for its stylish sedans in Pakistan, a country where urban cars are the ultimate preference of car buyers. Toyota believes in upgrading its vehicles on a regular basis to meet the evolving standards of automotive industry and with this approach, Toyota has given a facelift to its 2018 Altis Grande in Pakistan. The new and upgraded model is now equipped with more advanced technological features and boasts a superior new design that is clearly a sight to behold.
The new design of Altis Grande reveals everything about the innovative mindset of designers at Toyota who have truly crafted a masterpiece in the all-new Altis Grande. The facelifted sedan now has an authoritative stance with a more refined front fascia. The front-end has integrated daytime running lights and a newly designed slim and sleek grille. Bi Beam LED headlights that are being nestled between the stylishly designed front-grille, add more impetus to Grande’s looks and enhance the illumination while consuming lesser power.
Grande’s side mirrors have received a new Auto Reverse Link Mode. This mode is automatically activated when the vehicle is being reversed. The front fog lamps are aesthetically adjusted into the front air diffusers which increase the visibility on the road while driving. The side skirts and mud flaps are of body color and go well with the exquisite design language of the vehicle. There is also a smart trunk opener which opens the truck with the touch of a button. Other advanced featuresintroduced into the facelifted model are the front and back camerasthat particularly help a driver while parking a vehicle. The exterior of the vehicle boastsimproved aerodynamics and advanced technologies for remarkable driving experience.
The interior welcomes the driver and passengers with state-of-the-art features for comfort, entertainment and convenience. Grande has a 3D interior design that depicts sheer luxury and class with soft touch padding, enhanced space and an ergonomic appeal. There is a push start button to start the engine while the steering wheel offers superior control with mounted audioand driving controls. Toyota Grande facelift also features an Optitron Meter which is equipped with 4.2-inch color TFT Display that provides important information to the driver about speed, driving range, fuel consumption and Eco-monitor. The 9-inch dash infotainment system, bucket type front seats and rear reclining seats with split folding are among other convenience features offered inside the cabin of Toyota Grande facelifted model. A sunroof is also available which further adds to the beauty of the interior.
The engine in the all-mew Grande makes the vehicle one of the most powerful stylish sedans available in the Pakistan’s automotive market. It has a 1.8-litre, 7-speed CVT-i (with paddle shift) engine that produces 138hp and 173Nm of torque. Despite being a luxurious sedan, the advanced engine technologies of Toyota Grande make it a highly fuel-efficient vehicle. It offers a fuel average of 14.8 KM/L. The fuel tank capacity of Toyota Grande facelifted model is 55 L.
Toyota Grande is a modern day vehicle that is loaded with advanced driver-assist and safety technologies to make every ride with this amazing vehicle safer than ever. Toyota has introduced some of the latest safety features in its facelifted model of Grande.
These safety features are:
The all-new Grande is now available in Pakistan. Toyota lovers can buy this absolutely amazing sedan with an updated design in just PKR 2,224,000
By Hanif Memon
A high-profile Chinese delegation, representing Sinotruck Limited, visited the Pakistan Association of Auto Parts and Accessories Manufacturers’(PAAPAM) South Office here in Karachi to meet with senior members of the PAAPAM to discuss possible future ventures between the two countries for the manufacturing of trucks and their auto parts.The ten-member strong delegation was led by Mr. Wang from Sinotruck, while the delegation of PAAPAM was led by Chairman Mashood Ali Khan. Members from Dysin Automobiles Pakistan and Paapam were also present.
Chairman and senior members of PAAPAM briefed their Chinese counterparts about the technologies, resources, and expertise of the Pakistani parts manufacturers in the field of trucks and the production of their auto parts. The Chinese members were also told about the growing auto industry of Pakistan, and how it is already heavily involved in the production of motorcycles, cars, buses, and trucks, and in the production and assembling of their auto parts. Wang spoke of his desire and interest to utilize Pakistani expertise and labor in the production of auto parts for their trucks. Moreover, he said that they were interested in setting up a production plant for trucks in Pakistan and wants to be involved in successful businesses with Pakistan for years to come.
Members of PAAPAM invited the Chinese members to visit their plants, and to create a link where Pakistani members could visit their Chinese friends and learn from them about the latest technologies and utility of labor.
In four provinces, different rules for motorcycle registration and vehicle registration exist in federal territories, Islamabad and Azad Jammu Kashmir.
Punjab excels with other provinces where vehicle registration system is operated under the most advanced system.
The authorized dealers of vehicles are authorized to register vehicles or bikes at the time of sale. The dealers have been given permission to register or submit data of vehicle and the buyer in the Punjab Excise and Taxation Department.
In contrast, dealers in Karachi have been asked to make complete application form, CNIC copy of the applicant, authority/registration letter of the assembler in favor of the buyer and sales tax paid invoice by the dealer and by the assembler including pay order of registration charges in favor of motor registering authority of Karachi.
Due to these cumbersome and lengthy processes the buyer and the dealer will have to wait due to half day of Friday and Saturdays and Sundays being the holiday. When the dealers’ representatives or agents go to the MRA Karachi – the officials try to find loop holes and create unnecessary objections. After greasing the palm of the officials – all the problems are solved.
“The Chief Minister of Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah should take notice over the corruption in MRA Karachi,” chairman Association of Pakistan Motorcycle Assemblers (APMA), Mohammad Sabir Sheikh said.
Contrary to this, he said the Punjab government has fixed the charges or fees on issuance of golden or famous numbers to the buyers of two and four wheelers such as 1111, 5555, 0786, 0110, 6666, 9999 etc.
In Sindh, Sabir claims that the officials take bribe for issuing golden or choice numbers. These officials are misusing their powers and the higher ups in the Sindh government are watching the situation from the sidelines.
If a bike is produced by Pak Suzuki Motor Company or by Atlas Honda Limited and this bike is invoiced in up country then MRA Karachi demands Rs 2,000 per bike (extra money) by saying that this invoice does not belong to Karachi district.
The tax officials are cashing on soaring demand of choice or golden number from the buyers. Bike owners like to have a special or unique numbers in which golden number or number of equal digits is gaining popularity.
The opportunity of getting golden number has become a source of handsome earning for the brokers of excise and taxation department and the officials of the government departments. These officials and brokers are taking heavy bribes from the impatient customers.
Sources said numbers like 5555 and 1111 are being allotted after paying bribe of Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 to the brokers and officials.
They said the game of money making has been in vogue as the government has not fixed any fees or amount for obtaining golden or choice numbers, sources said adding that the brokers and excise officials are taking full advantage of non availability of any official fee or amount of choice numbers.
In the last one month some 30,000 register numbers were given to the bike buyers. There are 10,000 numbers in one series of bike and other vehicles in which nine golden identical numbers exist like 6666, 9999 etc which are being allotted to the buyers by the dealers in connivance with the excise and taxation officials, sources added.
In Karachi around 1,400 bikes are being registered daily in the government department which means that in the 22 days some 36 golden or choice numbers were issued after exchange of heavy bribe between the dealers, buyers and the government officials, sources said.
The golden or choice numbers for religious buyers are different like 0786, 0110 etc which are also in high demand as compared to other golden numbers.
Numbers in pairs like 6262-5252 are also famous on which bribe rate hovers between Rs 1,000-1,500 per buyer.
Sabir said the Sindh government in the current fiscal year has increased the fee for duplicate registration book to Rs 2,000 from Rs 500.
He said the CM Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah should see the possibility by officially fixing a reasonable fee or amount for golden or choice numbers so that the practice of charging illegal fee should be curbed. He said fixing a fee or amount below the bribe rate would definitely bring additional revenues to the government’s coffers besides controlling the menace of bribe.
He said the excise and taxation department was already getting more revenues due to surging registration of bikes and other vehicles. Fixing a reasonable fee for choice and golden numbers would further boost government’s earning.
Some leading brands are enjoying boom period of bike sales in which Atlas Honda Limited has beaten all the assemblers by achieving record sale of 960,105 units in the country during 2016-2017 as compared to 811,034 in 2015-2016.
A Chinese bike assembler – United Motorcycle, has emerged as the second highest bike sellers, posting record sale of 326,298 units in 2016-2017 as compared to 262,773 units while Road Prince has sold 207,244 units versus 167,241 units in 2015-2016.
The new fiscal year will bring new sales laurels for Atlas Honda which aims to sell more bikes than 2016-2017 for which it has already raised its combined plant capacity to 1.3 million units per year.
Bike demand has emerged due to improving law and order situation in the country especially in Karachi and improving farm income.
According to the annual report of Atlas Honda Limited 2017, enhanced economic fundamentals, better security situation and increasing real incomes reflected in rising demand of consumers’ durables including two-wheelers. A strong consumer appetite for bikes in both urban and rural areas was the major growth driver. Low petrol prices, higher trend of urbanization and demographic shift to youth also supported the demand of two-wheelers.
Sabir Sheikh said another trend among young generation is the usage of heavy bikes which are being imported. Bike assemblers are also importing little quantity of heavy bikes. As a result the import bill of bike imports went up 1.5pc to three million dollars in 2016-2017 from $2.945 million in 2015-2016.
Local Chinese bike assemblers have started introducing heavy bikes for the last one and half years though they look like toys and cannot match with the quality of Japanese products.
Omega Industries, the assembler of Road Prince motorcycle bikes, had introduced RX-130, 250cc recently with a price tag of Rs 400,000.
Super Power had unveiled 200cc bike at a price of Rs 200,000 followed by ZXMCO 250cc price of 2,45,00 and Ravi 150cc etc.
Sabir Sheikh said a new trend is emerging of rolling out over 125cc heavy bikes based on majority of imported parts but so far the consumers have shown lukewarm response due to high prices. The assemblers will have to improve their quality to match with Honda 150cc which was recently introduced at an attractive price. Honda 150cc would give tough time to the Chinese competitors because of its quality and price, APMA chief added.
“One thing has proven so far that these 150-250cc bikes are not for low and middle income group people. A well off young generation can afford these bikes,” he said.
To encourage competition among assemblers and bringing down price of heavy bikes, Sabir said the government needs to simplify the procedure of obtaining permission for parts imports which is currently lengthy and cumbersome.
People are taking time to adjust with heavy bikes. They had shown tremendous response to Suzuki 150cc but later shifted to other brands. Honda 150cc may prove a game changer in the heavy bike category, he said.
Yamaha came with a fanfare but it is now struggling for its survival. The company closes its financial year 2016-2017 on a depressing note with sale of 13,282 units as compared 16,109 units in 2015-2016.
Pak Suzuki bikes slightly came out from the red by recording slight jump in sales to 18,478 units in 2016-2017 from 17,456 units in 2015-2016.
This exclusive article on auto sector of Pakistan, published in Monthly AutoMark Magazine’s August-2017 printed edition.
Dysin Automobiles Limited, one of the most rapidly growing automotive companies in Pakistan, has launched the Zhongtong Intercity Bus in a glittering ceremony held in Lahore. Dysin Automobiles Limited is renowned for its value added services and successful representation of Sino Trucks in Pakistan.
The ceremony was attended by CEO Dysin Automobiles Imran Malik, COO Mir Asad Waseem, Director Sardar Jawaid Durrani, Head of Sales & Marketing Ahmed Sana Zaidi, Project Manager Rehan Raheem Bhatti, and Marketing Manager Muhammad Umar Irshad. The Chief Guest was SardarQaiser Abbas Khan Magsi, Chairman Standing Committee Transport, Punjab.
The Zhong Tong Bus has been tested extensively globally to conform to the benchmark of quality and performance of other such buses being used across the globe. Dysin Automobiles has selected two variants, Elegance and Navigator, for the Pakistani market.
The bus is a symbol of high quality, performance, style, elegance, comfort, and financial value for local business partners and also for the users. Integrated with craftsmanship of Chinese excellence and leverage of European technology, the bus is an ideal solution in every aspect with low cost of ownership. Dysin Automobile hopes that the product will prove to become an indispensable asset for transporters.
Zhongtong Bus is ranked in the top three best-selling buses manufactured in China, with more than 25,000 unit sales annually. The bus is manufactured in a state-of-the-art assembling facility in Jinan, with Zhongtong being a symbol of technology, performance, innovation, and economic value within China and overseas markets.
FAW announced the launch of local assembly of their passenger car, FAW V2, in an event held on 12th August, 2017 in Karachi
FAW V2 is the first Chinese passenger car to be assembled in Pakistan. The Managing Director of the company, Mr. Bilal Afridi hosted the event, which was attended by all of their nationwide dealers and vendors.
FAW is the fastest growing Chinese automotive company formed in collaboration with Al-Haj in 2007. The 50,000-sq. m factory of 600+ employees is built on 105,000-sq. m land with a capacity of 10,000 units pa/single shift.
Mr. Bilal Afridi mentioned in his speech about the initial investment of 2.5 billion Rupees made to set up the company and a further investment of 1.3 billion Rupees for an improved local assembly setup and ED Paint technology in their cars.
He talked about the commitment of his company to continuous advancement in technology, premium 3S customer service and dealership network, in all major cities of Pakistan in addition to 3 years/60,000km warranty.
FAW claims that their local assembly will help them serve its customers better and give them quality assurance of the vehicles. The company aims to increase their production to 15,000 units per annum by year 2020 and introduce new models in Pakistan.
The V2 hatchback with 1300cc engine is currently being imported as Completely Built Unit (CBU). Introduced in our market in 2014, the V2 has gained a satisfactory reputation among the consumers and the demand is steadily on the rise.
The company started its operation here in Pakistan with 7 acres land and now is proud to have an operating land of 27 acres. This shows the commitment of the company & is definitely not among those who come & leave.
“Our vehicles bring another category in the market where we provide luxury features of a car at affordable prices. We are now being recognized for quality, economy and technological brilliance. Our products ranging from heavy vehicles to light vehicles cater every need of our commercial and domestic sector and we are rapidly gaining people’s trust.”
He further stated: “As a result of good response and with encouragement of our customers, we have further invested rupees 1.3 billion in new assembling process and ED paint technology to improve our V2 with local assembly right here in Pakistan.”
A locally assembled V2 would likely mean lower prices compared to the CBU while a lower displacement engine would also ease out buyers in taxation & registration costs. V2 is probably the most fuel efficient 1.3L car available on Pakistani roads. The current in-city average is about 15-16km, and on highways it reaches 18km in a liter. By end of 2017, Al-Haj FAW expects to produce 500 V2 units a month. We Have further plans to export our right hand drive cars in China and other international markets.
About Al-Haj:
The very first ‘Al-Haj’ companies was launched in 1960 by Late Haji Sakhi Gul at Jumrud Khyber Agency in District Peshawar, with their initial business in trading of Tires, Textiles, electronic goods, Logistics & Leasing. Now company expands its business to Assembling of HCV, LCV & Passenger Vehicles, Import of Passenger vehicles, Real Estate, Oil Exploration & Al-Haj Foundry. The Group is in the process of continuous growth under the able guidance of Mr. Haji Shah Jee Gul Afridi, the Chairman of the Group.
About FAW:
FAW “First Automobile Works” was founded in Changchun on 9 th June 1953 by Chairman Mao Zedong. In 1992, the name “First Automobile Works” was changed to “China FAW Group Corporation”. FAW Group is a global leader in vehicle manufacturing industry with more than 60 year history of innovation. FAW has a state-of-the-art government-certified engineering development and test centre. – PR
