Mansoor Sadiq

Taking advantage of automobile sector’s shift towards hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), Sazgar Engineering Works Limited (SEWL) in collaboration with China’s Great Wall Motors (GWM) has successfully launched the country’s first locally assembled HEV. ‘HAVAL H6 HEV’ has been introduced in three variants following its launch in November 2022, grabbing massive public attention.

Amid escalating prices of petroleum products globally, the world is fast moving towards electric and hybrid vehicles. Pakistan is among the countries where HEVs are making inroads. Mian Muhammad Ali Hameed, the SEWL Executive Director, told WealthPK that Sazgar was aiming to “revolutionise” the automobile industry in Pakistan by bringing in the latest technologies.

Highlighting key features of HAVAL H6, he said it was the first locally assembled hybrid unit in Pakistan with state-of-the-art car and internationally-recognised safety features. “The distinguishing features include 240 horsepower, 530NM torque, 19-inch alloy wheels, front radar, fully automatic parking, autonomous reverse, blind spot detection, lane change assist, astern side warning braking, intelligent dodge, rear collision warning, ventilated and four-way electric seats, anion air purifier, heads up display and ambient lightning.”

He said HAVAL H6 was the Third Generation Vehicle with smart key entry, and facilitated with parking sensors, and digital and multimedia control. He maintained that the vehicle had also been facilitated with a 360-view with assistance of six cameras, adding three variants of HAVAL H6 had been introduced. He said 1.5 turbo was priced at Rs7.8 million, 2.0 variant priced at Rs8.8 million and HAVAL Premium was priced at Rs9.7 million. He said the vehicles can be booked with payment of Rs1 million and Rs1.2 million, respectively, with a delivery time of four months.

Ali Hameed revealed that experts of GWM spent a good amount of time studying infrastructure, environment and public demand before launching the HEV in Pakistan. “Under the guidance of GWM, strict quality assessment has been maintained at every assembly stage.” Responding to a query about what makes HAVAL different from other SUVs (sport utility vehicles), he said HAVAL presented a tablet-style information display and leather interior with colour options. “Its 1.9-inch alloy wheels and 2.0T full LED lights are another great addition to the vehicle. Electric seats and dual-zone climate control make it different from other advanced vehicles.”

He continued that the new crossover HAVAL H6 had six airbags, parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera. “Moreover, TPMS, ABS brakes, and traction control are among the other safety features. Adaptive cruise control, auto reverse, auto park, lane assist, blind spot motor, and other driver-aid functions are also available in the vehicle, which makes it more valuable and demanding SUV of this range in the country.”

It is worth mentioning here that HAVAL H6 has emerged as one of the largest selling brands worldwide during the last two years with approximately seven million HAVAL SUVs sold in 60 countries. Meanwhile, Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA) has termed launch of HAVAL H6 as a positive sign for automotive sector, bringing a ‘greener, smarter and better travel experience’ to consumers. It said the new addition will help speed up the transition from traditional fuel-based vehicles to new energy vehicles in Pakistan.

An analysis of the country’s automobile sector shows that till a few years ago, there was little acceptability for new brands, but this trend is changing rapidly as new companies are introducing cars with added features as compared to the established players. “With its smart features and beautiful interior, HAVAL H6 is sure to grab consumers’ attention,” said Rana Asim, a resident of Lahore, who has booked the HEV. “I am anxiously waiting to drive my ‘dream’ car.” It is also worth mentioning that SEWL has also successfully emerged as the market leader in Pakistan’s production of electric rickshaws.

Credit : Independent News Pakistan-WealthPk