[🇧🇩] Automobile Industry of Bangladesh including parts

[Saif]

PRAN to invest Tk 500cr in motorcycle, e-scooter venture

PRAN-RFL Group, a leading conglomerate in Bangladesh, is set to invest Tk 500 crore over the next three years to manufacture and market motorcycles and electric scooters.

www.thedailystar.net

PRAN to invest Tk 500cr in motorcycle, e-scooter venture

PRAN-RFL Group, a leading conglomerate in Bangladesh, is set to invest Tk 500 crore over the next three years to manufacture and market motorcycles and electric scooters.

The group aims to produce its own eco-friendly electric scooter brand, RYDO, while also taking over the manufacturing and distribution of the renowned Indian brand TVS in the local market, according to a press release.

The move is expected to create direct and indirect employment for 5,000 people.

A motorcycle assembly and manufacturing plant will soon be established at the Habiganj Industrial Park.

“Today, motorcycles and bicycles are not just modes of transportation for young people; they have become lifestyle products,” said RN Paul, managing director of RFL Group.

Under a recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU), PRAN-RFL will invest Tk 400 crore in phases to produce “Made in Bangladesh” TVS motorcycles.

Mahmudur Rahman, chief operating officer of RFL’s bike business, said that marketing of TVS motorcycles will commence by the end of February, with full-scale production at the Habiganj factory starting within this year. The initial target is to produce 5,000 units a month.

RFL has already begun assembling RYDO scooters, which are electric vehicles, with an initial investment of Tk 50 crore.

“By 2027, we aim to offer high-quality RYDO electric scooters at around Tk 50,000,” Paul said, adding that the group plans to manufacture almost all components locally within the next year to ensure affordability.

To address charging infrastructure challenges, the group is installing fast-charging stations at its retail outlets in partnership with Glafit Bangladesh Limited.

The country’s motorcycle market is currently valued at Tk 7,000-Tk 8,000 crore, with annual growth of 16-17 percent. Industry experts expect national production capacity to reach one million units by 2027.​

 

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Runner Automobiles ties up with China's BYD in EV push

Runner Automobiles has approved a landmark supply and manufacturing agreement with China's electric vehicle giant BYD Auto Industry Company, a move widely seen as a turning point for Bangladesh's evolving automobile industry. The decision came at a meeting of the board of directors of Runner Autom

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Runner Automobiles ties up with China's BYD in EV push

FE REPORT
Published :
Mar 25, 2026 11:39
Updated :
Mar 25, 2026 11:39

Runner Automobiles has approved a landmark supply and manufacturing agreement with China's electric vehicle giant BYD Auto Industry Company, a move widely seen as a turning point for Bangladesh's evolving automobile industry.

The decision came at a meeting of the board of directors of Runner Automobiles on March 20, where the board also reviewed the prevailing business climate and charted the company's strategic priorities.

"The partnership is expected to mark a significant milestone for Bangladesh's automotive sector, creating opportunities for local manufacturing and technology transfer," reads a stock exchange filing on Tuesday.

The board expressed strong confidence in the long-term strategic value of the partnership.

The agreement will enable Runner Automobiles to collaborate closely with BYD in supply, manufacturing, and potentially assembly operations.

The agreement marks one of the most high-profile collaborations in Bangladesh's automotive sector to date. For Runner Automobiles, it represents a strategic leap toward advanced manufacturing and technological integration.

The deal would facilitate technology transfer, allowing Runner to gain access to advanced EV platforms, battery systems, and manufacturing expertise-areas where BYD has established global dominance.

The partnership is also expected to accelerate the development of Bangladesh's domestic automobile manufacturing capabilities, which have so far remained limited compared to regional peers.

Following the news, Runner Automobiles' stock jumped 9.97 per cent to Tk 37.5 per share on Tuesday on the Dhaka Stock Exchange.

The Chinese firm, headquartered in Shenzhen, is a global leader in electric vehicles (EVs), batteries, and clean energy solutions.

BYD's expertise in battery technology and EV ecosystems positions the partnership as a potential catalyst for Bangladesh's transition toward greener mobility solutions.

The deal comes at a time when Bangladesh is exploring pathways to cleaner and more sustainable transportation. With global pressure mounting to reduce carbon emissions, electric vehicles are gaining traction as a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered cars.

Runner's business performance

Runner Automobiles returned to profit in FY25, driven by robust sales growth, particularly in the three-wheeler segment, after enduring losses for the previous two years.

The motorcycle manufacturer made a consolidated profit of Tk 102 million in FY25 against a loss of Tk 61 million in FY24. Runner also suffered a loss of Tk 880 million in FY23.

Returning to profit, the company declared a 10 per cent cash dividend for FY25, compared to the 11 per cent paid for the previous year.​

 

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Govt to withdraw import duty on electric school buses: NBR

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has decided to eliminate all import duties on electric school buses as part of a strategic move to reduce fuel consumption in the transport sector. “This initiative is the first phase of a broader government plan to promote energy efficiency in public tran

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Govt to withdraw import duty on electric school buses: NBR

BSS
Published :
Apr 07, 2026 17:36
Updated :
Apr 07, 2026 17:36

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has decided to eliminate all import duties on electric school buses as part of a strategic move to reduce fuel consumption in the transport sector.

“This initiative is the first phase of a broader government plan to promote energy efficiency in public transportation,” said NBR Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan during a pre-budget discussion for the 2026-2027 fiscal year held at the Revenue Building in the city.

Unlike many fiscal changes that take effect with the new national budget, he said, the duty waiver for electric school buses will be implemented immediately.

The NBR Chairman confirmed that a Statutory Regulatory Order (SRO) will be issued shortly to grant this exemption.

“We will not wait for the upcoming budget to implement this initiative,” the Chairman stated, adding that while the national budget will see significant changes regarding the electric vehicle (EV) sector, this specific measure is being fast-tracked.

During the discussions, leaders from various transport organizations, including the Bangladesh Automobile Assemblers and Manufacturers Association (BAAMA) and Bangladesh Reconditioned Vehicles Importers and Dealers Association (BARVIDA), proposed lowering registration costs for EVs by providing clearer definitions based on CC and kilowatts.

The Chairman acknowledged that VAT refunds have been stalled for a year and a half due to the lack of an automated system, a situation he described as unfair and promised to rectify as operations move online.

The NBR has declined requests to reduce taxes on jet fuel, citing concerns over theft prevention.

Additionally, while petroleum dealers requested zero-duty imports for truck chassis to replace 25-year-old vehicles, the NBR remains focused on balancing environmental goals with revenue requirements.

The meeting saw participation from a wide range of industry leaders, including representatives from the motorcycle, shipbuilding, and aviation sectors.​

 

[Saif]

Rancon, Mitsubishi form JV to make vehicles in Bangladesh

Rancon Auto Industries Ltd (RAIL) has entered a strategic partnership with Japan’s Mitsubishi Corporation to manufacture vehicles in Bangladesh for sale in domestic and regional markets.

www.thedailystar.net

Rancon, Mitsubishi form JV to make vehicles in Bangladesh

Japan-based company will take a 25 percent equity stake in Rancon Auto Industries Ltd

Star Business Report

Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, minister for finance and planning, attends a strategic partnership announcement programme between Mitsubishi Corporation and Rancon Auto Industries Limited at Sheraton Dhaka in Banani today. Romo Rouf Chowdhury, group managing director of Rancon Holdings Limited, was also present. Photo: Mehedi Hasan

Rancon Auto Industries Ltd (RAIL) has entered a strategic partnership with Japan’s Mitsubishi Corporation to manufacture vehicles in Bangladesh for sale in domestic and regional markets.

Under the agreement, Mitsubishi will take a 25 percent equity stake in RAIL, which began local production of the Mitsubishi Xpander in June last year.

Announcing the joint venture at an event at Sheraton Dhaka today, Rancon Holdings Group Managing Director Romo Rouf Chowdhury said the partnership would mark a major step forward for the country’s automotive sector.

“This partnership between Mitsubishi Corporation and Rancon will play a pivotal role in advancing Bangladesh’s automotive industry by integrating global expertise with deep local market insights. This landmark strategic alliance -- the first of its kind in the country’s automotive sector -- underscores the strength of Bangladesh-Japan trade relations,” he said.

He added that the strategic investment is expected to enhance access to affordable and convenient vehicle financing, expand after-sales services, ensure spare parts availability, and strengthen distribution networks across the country.

“It will also facilitate the transfer of technology and knowledge to develop a highly skilled local workforce, while contributing to government revenue through VAT and taxes,” said Chowdhury, adding the company’s automobile arm has gradually built its manufacturing base since starting operations in 2017.

RAIL, which focuses on multi-brand vehicle manufacturing and assembly, began with the local assembly of the Mitsubishi Outlander. It later expanded its portfolio to include the Fuso BM117, Mercedes OF1623, Proton X70, as well as trucks and pickups from JAC and GMC.

The company upgraded its factory in 2023 with a modern paint facility. The following year, it launched the locally painted and assembled Mitsubishi Xpander, which quickly gained traction, with monthly sales exceeding 100 units, making it the highest-selling brand-new vehicle in Bangladesh.

Despite this growth, Chowdhury said the country’s automobile market remains largely underdeveloped.

With one of the lowest per capita vehicle ownership rates in the region and a population of around 200 million, he said Bangladesh offers strong long-term demand potential as the middle class expands.

Against this backdrop, Rancon initiated discussions with Mitsubishi Corporation to leverage its manufacturing and distribution expertise. The talks culminated in the joint venture, under which Mitsubishi Corporation acquired a 25 percent stake in Rancon Automobile Industries through foreign direct investment.

“This is a proud moment for us,” Chowdhury said, adding that the partnership reflects growing international confidence in Bangladesh’s industrial prospects.​

 

[Saif]

Latest models dominate Dhaka Auto Show

The three-day 19th Dhaka Auto Series of Exhibitions began in the capital on Thursday, showcasing the latest vehicle and electric vehicle models, as well as a wide range of electric motorcycles...

www.newagebd.net

Latest models dominate Dhaka Auto Show
Staff Correspondent 23 April, 2026, 22:42

Visitors look at cars on display at International Convention City Bashundhara in the capital on Thursday, the first day of the three-day event. | New Age photo

The three-day 19th Dhaka Auto Series of Exhibitions began in the capital on Thursday, showcasing the latest vehicle and electric vehicle models, as well as a wide range of electric motorcycles.

Organised by CEMS-Global USA, the multiple concurrent exhibitions began at the capital’s International Convention City Bashundhara as a strategic platform for industry growth, facilitating business development, networking, product launches, market expansion and technology transfer.

At Dhaka Motor Show, a part of the bigger event, Toyota Bangladesh Limited showcased its lineup, including the Toyota Corolla Cross, Toyota Avanza, Toyota Veloz and Toyota Rush.

Premmit Singh, managing director of Toyota Bangladesh Limited, told New Age that the company had showcased six models at the ongoing motor show, including three newly introduced hybrid vehicles, RA4 Hybrid, Yaris Cross Hybrid and Yaris Sedan Hybrid, as part of its strategy to promote hybrid technology as a suitable mobility solution for Bangladesh.

He said that the newly introduced models were priced between Tk 5 million and Tk 11 million, adding that special promotional offers had been introduced during the motor show.

‘The RA4 Hybrid is targeted at senior executives and banking professionals in top management positions, while the Yaris Cross Hybrid is designed for small families and young women drivers or early-career professionals,’ he added.

The hybrid sedan, meanwhile, is aimed at corporate executives and professionals in the broader business sector, he added.

He also said that Toyota Bangladesh had just begun its expansion in the country and planned to gradually broaden its product lineup, aiming to introduce more models in the coming days, with a focus on advanced technology, higher standards and improved safety features for Bangladeshi consumers.

A notable number of Chinese automakers also participated in the event. Chinese automaker Wuling has officially entered the Bangladesh market through RANCON Auto Industries.

They showcased three models, including plug-in hybrid ‘Darrion,’ while fuel-powered ‘Almaz RS’ and ‘Cortez’ are locally assembled.

The Cortez is priced at Tk 2.5 million, the Almaz RS at Tk 3.2 million and the Darrion at Tk 4.3 million. Englishlanguage tutoring

The seven-seater Darrion can travel up to 125 kilometres on battery alone and up to 1,000 km with a full fuel tank and charge combined.

Japanese brand Mitsubishi Motors unveiled its new model ‘Destinator,’ priced at Tk 6.5 million, marking its official entry into the local market.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh Auto Industries Limited showcased a prototype EV under the brand ‘MEV,’ named ‘Surge Z.’

The fully electric version is expected to offer a range of 350-450 kilometres per charge and the company plans to begin local assembly within six months, with an estimated price between Tk 4 and 4.5 million, said Mir Masud Kabir, the company’s managing director.

This year’s exhibition featured over 70 companies from 10 countries, including Japan, India, China, Malaysia, Germany and the United Kingdom.

Leading brands on display include Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, Honda, MG Motor, Proton, Changan, GAC Motor and Dongfeng Motor Corporation.

A number of global motorcycle brands also participated in the shows.

Meherun N Islam, president and group managing director of CEMS-Global USA and Asia Pacific, inaugurated the exhibitions with the presence of government officials from the relevant ministries and departments.

The exhibition will continue till April 25.​