ISLAMABAD: M/s Suzuki is considering the introduction of biogas-powered vehicles in Pakistan, aimed at replacing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) with a more sustainable fuel alternative that would also help save foreign exchange.
Sources informed Newzshewz that Pak Suzuki has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Agriculture University of Faisalabad to explore the feasibility of biogas as an alternative fuel. The company is setting up a model biogas plant in Manga Mandi, Lahore, with an investment of Rs. 30 million. This plant, which will have a production capacity of 1,500 cubic meters of biogas per day, will utilize manure from approximately 2,000 cattle.
The Pakistani Ambassador to Japan recently held a meeting with a delegation from Suzuki Motor Corporation, led by Mr. Masafumi Harano, Executive General Manager of Automobile Marketing for Asia, Latin America, and Oceania. The delegation also included Mr. Hiroshi Kawamura, Managing Director of Pak Suzuki Motor Company Ltd. During the meeting on December 26, 2024, the Ambassador expressed his belief that biogas could serve as a viable and affordable alternative fuel for Pakistan. The biogas-powered vehicles could use retrofitted CNG kits, costing around Rs. 100,000. Additionally, Pakistan already has a nationwide network of CNG stations, making the transition to biogas fuel more feasible.
The Ambassador also noted that the potential savings in the country’s import bill could be significant. With a daily consumption of 2.25 million cubic meters of biogas (equivalent to 900 tons per day), Pakistan could save up to $270 million by 2030. He welcomed the plans of Pak Suzuki and encouraged the company to continue its efforts, emphasizing the importance of making biogas-powered vehicles appealing to consumers.
Furthermore, the Ambassador proposed that relevant government departments accelerate the establishment of biogas plants, as they could provide a cost-effective way to reduce foreign exchange spending.
In related news, it was revealed that Suzuki Motor Corporation is planning to celebrate the 40th anniversary of its operations in Pakistan, with celebrations expected in April or May 2025. Suzuki has a special connection with Pakistan, as it was the first country where the company established a vehicle assembly plant.
Last year, Pak Suzuki produced 80,000 vehicles, although its annual production capacity is 150,000 units. The company employs 250,000 people and has achieved 76% localization in auto parts manufacturing. Pak Suzuki also plans to launch two new models—a van and a compact SUV—in the near future. Ends
