By Imtiaz Rastgar Manufacturing and Export Consultant at PMX Consulting (www.pmx.com.pk)
In the current landscape of Pakistan’s automotive industry, the drive toward achieving the export targets outlined by the Government’s Auto Industry Policy is more critical than ever. To compete in global markets, local manufacturers must focus on two pillars: cost-competitiveness and sustainable production. While much attention is given to raw materials and labor, one of the most significant “hidden” costs on the factory floor is the “fourth utility”—compressed air.
For automotive parts manufacturers and assembly plants, optimizing compressed air systems isn’t just a maintenance task; it is a strategic move to increase the bottom line and meet international standards.
Driving Efficiency with VSD and PM Technology
The latest range of SKY Air Compressors offers a direct solution to the high energy overheads typically found in Pakistani manufacturing. By integrating Variable Speed Drive (VSD) Technology and Permanent Magnet (PM) Motors, these systems address the inherent inefficiency of traditional fixed-speed compressors.
Standard compressors often run at full capacity regardless of the actual air demand, leading to massive energy waste. In contrast, VSD technology allows the compressor to adjust its motor speed to match the real-time demand of the production line. When paired with PM Motors, which offer superior electrical efficiency over standard induction motors, the result is a significant reduction in kilowatt consumption. With a motor power range spanning 7.5 to 560 KW, SKY provides scalable solutions for both small component workshops and large-scale assembly plants.
Aligning with Global Sustainability Goals (UN SDGs)
As global supply chains increasingly demand “green” manufacturing credentials, Pakistan’s auto industry must align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Implementing high-performance, energy-saving compressed air systems directly contributes to several key goals:
- SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy): By reducing energy consumption through VSD technology, manufacturers lower the strain on the national grid and reduce their carbon footprint.
- SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): Adopting PM Motors represents an upgrade to modern, resilient industrial infrastructure that promotes resource-use efficiency.
- SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production): Improving compressed air efficiency ensures that energy vital resources consumed responsibly, minimizing waste in the production of automotive goods.
Empowering Exports through Reliability
To achieve the government’s ambitious export targets, “Made in Pakistan” must mean “Reliable.” Production downtime is the enemy of export deadlines. One of the standout features of the SKY offering is their Aftermarket & Service Network, which spans all over Pakistan.
Having local access to specialized maintenance and genuine parts ensures that the Rotary Screw Air Compressors—which deliver volume flows from 1.2 to 100 m³/min—remain operational at peak efficiency. This reliability allows manufacturers to maintain the consistent output required to fulfill international contracts and improve their overall profitability.
Efficiency in the engine room is the first step toward excellence in the showroom. By embracing energy-saving technologies, Pakistan’s auto industry can lower its operational costs, fulfill its sustainability commitments, and take its rightful place as a competitive player in the global export market.
This exclusive article has been published in Automark’s January-2026 printed edition. Written by @imtiaz-rastgar
