Bangladesh’s EV Potential Remains Untapped Amid Infrastructure and Policy Challenges

Bangladesh’s electric vehicle (EV) sector continues to show strong potential, but growth remains constrained by inadequate charging infrastructure, inconsistent electricity supply and the absence of a coordinated policy framework.

According to data presented at a seminar held on Saturday (27 June), around 6 million electric three-wheelers currently operate across the country, while only 669 EVs are officially registered with the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA).

The information was shared during a seminar titled “Electric Vehicle Adoption in Bangladesh: Challenges and Opportunities,” jointly organised by the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) and the Bangladesh Sustainable and Renewable Energy Association (BSREA).

Presenting the keynote paper, DCCI President Taskin Ahmed said EV adoption is accelerating globally as countries seek to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable development.

He noted that although Bangladesh has introduced tax and duty incentives, progress will remain limited without expanding charging infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted power supply, improving battery management, establishing technical standards and encouraging private investment.

Taskin also called for developing a nationwide charging network through public-private partnerships and adopting a long-term integrated EV policy.

Speaking at the seminar, Bangladesh Energy and Power Research Council Chairman Mohammad Wahid Hossain emphasised that uninterrupted electricity supply is essential for EV sector growth and proposed establishing a central coordination mechanism among relevant agencies.

Industries Secretary Abdun Naser Khan said a draft EV policy has already been prepared and is expected to be finalised following inter-ministerial consultations and stakeholder feedback.

SREDA Director Md Aminur Rahman stated that approvals have so far been issued for 32 EV charging stations, with nine currently operational.

Participants observed that wider EV adoption could reduce fuel import dependence, save foreign currency and lower environmental pollution, provided adequate infrastructure, financing and policy support are ensured.

//DBTech/DP/MI//