[🇧🇩] 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.​

 

[Saif]

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.​

 

[Saif]

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.​

 

[Saif]

The Financial Express | First Financial Daily of Bangladesh

Get latest stock share market news, financial news, economy news, politics news, breaking news, Bangladesh economy news at The Financial Express.

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Govt encouraging shift to EVs to reduce carbon emissions: Mintoo

UNB

Published :
May 20, 2026 22:12
Updated :
May 20, 2026 22:12

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo has said the government plans to introduce electric vehicles in larger scale than they are today, in a bid to reduce carbon emission and build an environment-friendly transportation system in the country.

“The government is already planning to introduce 'electric vehicles' to develop an environmentally friendly transportation system and reduce carbon emissions,” he said.

The minister made this remark, when International Labour Organization (ILO) Country Director for Bangladesh Max Tuñón met him at his ministry office on Tuesday, said a PID handout on Wednesday.

He told the IL0 Country Director that the government has taken various effective initiatives under the ‘Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)’ policy to ensure sustainable waste management. The government is working relentlessly to make plastic waste management more organised and mandatory, he said.

The Environment Minister said his ministry has taken various initiatives to strengthen Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) installation for industrial waste management.

Besides, he said the government has taken initiatives to install large-scale solar panels (solar power) nationwide to reduce pressure on electricity and increase the use of renewable energy.

ILO Country Director for Max Tuñón expressed interest in expanding ongoing cooperation in Bangladesh’s environment, forest and climate sectors and placed special emphasis on Just Transition in issues of mutual interest involving the Environment Ministry and other ministries.

Noting that the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) workshop would be held in Gazipur next month, he emphasized the pioneering role of

the Environment Ministry in maintaining international standards in plastic recycling, waste management and environmental protection

He urged for working in coordination with various non-governmental organizations and development partner countries in this regard.

During the meeting, they also discussed strengthening cooperation in tackling plastic pollution, conservation of environment, sustainable development, pollution control, expansion of renewable energy, carbon credits, climate financing, circular economy and biodiversity conservation.

Two additional secretaries of the Environment Ministry and senior officials from the ILO country office in Bangladesh were present at the meeting.​

 

[Saif]

Charging ahead: EVs outpace growth predictions

Electric cars are getting cheaper, more efficient and can travel farther than ever. China is driving the transition, but Europe and other countries are catching up fast

www.thedailystar.net

Charging ahead: EVs outpace growth predictions

Deutsche Welle

Photo: Deutsche Welle

The global market for electric vehicles (EVs) is growing much faster than expected. In just six years, sales have increased tenfold, with around 21 million electric cars sold worldwide in 2025.

​

• In 2019, EVs made up just 1% of new car sales globally​
• In 2025, that figure rose to 25%​
• By May 2026, 63% of new cars sold were electric​
• Of the world's 1.4 billion cars, 85 million are now electric.​

China and Europe are leading the charge, but the market is growing rapidly in other parts of the world, too.

China leads the way in electric mobility

China has long been investing in solar and wind energy, as well as battery technology — the most critical component in electric vehicles.

Thanks to advanced research and mass production, electric car battery costs have dropped dramatically. Today, they cost just a quarter of what they did 10 years ago, and prices continue to fall.

China is the world's largest car market, and consumers are reaping the benefits of their government's industrial strategy. EVs have cost less than combustion engine cars since 2024, the state has been rapidly expanding charging infrastructure for years, and electricity in China is very affordable.

In 2015, electric vehicles made up just 1% of new car sales in China. By April 2026, that share had climbed to 61%.

Not all EVs are equal

Electric cars run on electricity and charge with a cable. Globally, two thirds of these EVs are so-called Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), which are powered by electricity alone. The remaining third also have a gas engine for backup on longer trips — these are known as Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs).

So-called Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs), by contrast, always require gas or diesel to power their combustion engine. An electric motor provides some assistance, with the electricity generated solely through regenerative braking. This technology reduces fuel consumption somewhat in city driving — but HEVs are not counted as electric vehicles in international statistics.

One in three new cars in Europe is now electric

In 2018, electric vehicles accounted for just 1% of new car registrations in the EU. By April 2026, almost one in three new cars sold was an EV.

Northern Europe is taking the lead. In Norway, nearly all new cars sold are now electric (99%), followed by Denmark at 82% and Sweden at 65%. Governments across the region support climate-friendly mobility and are expanding charging infrastructure.

In the UK, 39% of new cars registered in April 2026 were electric, followed by Germany at 37% and France at 32%. Across all three countries, EV sales doubled compared to the same month the previous year.

Fewer electric cars in the USA

The US market has stagnated in recent years. Between 2023 and 2025, EVs accounted for around 10% of new car registrations. By April 2026, that share had dropped to below 6%.

Tesla is widely regarded as a pioneer of the modern electric vehicle industry. Its Model Y and Model 3 remain the best-selling electric cars in the world, though they are followed by a string of Chinese models.

China dominates global EV production, manufacturing 71% of all electric vehicles worldwide. Europe is second at 17%, ahead of the US at just 5%. South Korea and Japan each account for 2%, with India at 1%.

Momentum in Asia and Latin America

In many developing and emerging economies, the share of EVs in new car sales is significantly higher than in the US. That's also the case elsewhere in Asia and Latin America. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), several Asian countries are well ahead of the curve. In Nepal, 68% of new registrations were electric in 2025, followed by Singapore (63%), Vietnam (41%) and Thailand (23%). In Turkey, the figure stood at 22%.

Latin America is also seeing strong growth, with EV sales across the region tripling in just two years. Uruguay had the highest share of EVs in new car sales in the first quarter of 2026 at 31%, followed by Costa Rica (16%), Colombia (15%) and Brazil (10%). In Mexico, the US's southern neighbor, the figure was 6%.

E-Pioneer in Africa: Ethiopa

In Africa, Ethiopia stands out. In 2024, it became the first country in the world to ban the import of new and used combustion engine vehicles. Since then, the number of electric alternatives on its roads has nearly quadrupled to over 100,000.

Some 96% of Ethiopia's electricity comes from affordable hydropower, making EV driving around eight times cheaper than running a combustion-engine vehicle. The government's goal is to use domestically generated electricity to cut the country's costly dependence on imported oil.

Cost of EVs versus gas cars

Electric vehicles have historically carried a higher price tag than their combustion-engine counterparts. In 2025, according to the IEA, EVs were around 27% more expensive in the US, 19% more in Germany, and 11% more in Brazil and Turkey.

But prices are falling fast. Some models in China are available for under €10,000 ($11,600), and in 2025 new electric cars there cost on average 20% less than comparable combustion engine models.

In Europe, most EVs are still priced above €20,000. But cheaper models are increasingly coming to market, and government subsidies are helping to bring costs down further.

Improved tech leads to greater range

Premium electric vehicles once topped out at around 500 kilometers (310.7 miles) on a single charge, and fast-charging options were often limited.

Today, some high-end EVs can travel over 800 kilometers on a single charge. Fast-charging stations are being built at an increasing pace worldwide, and one premium BYD model can reportedly add 700 kilometers of range in just 10 minutes using what the manufacturer calls a "Flash Charger." Regular fast chargers take about 20 minutes to add a 300 km range.

EVs are efficient and cheaper to run

Gas engines waste around 80% of their energy as heat, and diesel engines around 60%. Electric motors, by contrast, utilize 80% of their energy, losing no more than 20% as heat.

This efficiency translates directly into lower energy consumption. A typical EV uses around 15 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per 100 kilometers, compared to 50 kWh for a comparable combustion engine vehicle, roughly equivalent to 6 liters (1.3 gallons) of gas.

Home charging is generally the cheapest option. In Europe and the US in 2024, it cost over 40% less than filling up at a gas station, and globally the saving averaged 60%.

Public fast charging is considerably more expensive. But even then, driving electric is on average 15% cheaper than driving a combustion engine car.

Iran war accelerates shift to electric vehicles

Electric cars are quiet, produce no toxic emissions and no CO2 on the road — benefiting both public health and the climate. Many countries are actively encouraging the transition for these reasons.

High oil prices driven by the Iran war, combined with falling battery costs, will push EV sales even higher, according to the IEA. The agency projects that around 23 million electric cars will be sold this year — nearly 30% of all new vehicles worldwide — with the trend continuing upward.

According to Bloomberg New Energy Finance's Electric Vehicle Outlook, EVs could account for as much as 80% of global new car sales by 2030.​