A Vision of Sustainable Mobility

In a world increasingly driven by sustainability, Palki Motors Limited has emerged as a game-changer in Bangladesh’s transportation sector. Established in October 2022 by visionaries Mustafa Al Momin and Jahid Hasan, the company has taken on the ambitious mission of redefining mobility. With a focus on manufacturing affordable, eco-friendly electric vehicles, Palki Motors addresses critical challenges faced by commercial drivers while contributing to a greener future.

Palki Motors is not just a business; it’s a movement. Through innovation and a deep commitment to social responsibility, the company is empowering underprivileged communities and combating the environmental impact of traditional vehicles. This article dives into the journey of Palki Motors, its groundbreaking contributions, and the bright future it envisions for sustainable transportation.

The Birth of Palki Motors

A Spark of Innovation

The seeds of Palki Motors were sown during Mustafa Al Momin’s time as an Electrical Engineering student at BRAC University. Fascinated by AC motors and inspired by abandoned cars near police stations, Momin wondered if old vehicles could be given a second life using electric motors.

Despite pursuing higher education in the United States and securing a stable job, the idea stayed with him. After years of soul-searching and immersing himself in the lives of CNG drivers, Momin finally acted on his vision. Along with Jahid Hasan, an experienced sales and marketing expert, he founded Palki Motors Limited to create affordable electric alternatives to CNG vehicles.

Addressing Real-World Challenges

Empowering Commercial Drivers

Bangladesh’s commercial drivers, particularly CNG drivers, face numerous challenges. Long working hours, high rental costs, and rising fuel prices eat into their earnings. Palki Motors’ affordable electric vehicles (EVs) are designed to ease their burdens.

Priced at around Tk 5 lakh, the flagship “City Boy” electric car offers drivers a way to save significantly on operating costs. These vehicles are cheaper to run, easy to maintain, and provide comfort with features like air conditioning, rolling windows, and an infotainment system.

“CNG drivers pay around Tk 1,100 daily to vehicle owners and spend more on fuel. Our cars are designed to help them save money while improving their quality of life,” says Momin.

Combating Environmental Pollution

Dhaka, like many cities, is grappling with air pollution. While CNG vehicles are cleaner than petrol or diesel options, they still emit harmful gases like CH4 and CO. Palki Motors’ EVs produce zero emissions, making them a sustainable solution for the environment.

By 2027, the company aims to reduce 260,000 tonnes of CO2 annually through the sale of 20,000 electric cars and 20,000 electric lorries.

Innovative Features of Palki Motors’ Vehicles

Cutting-Edge Design

Palki Motors’ vehicles are compact yet practical. The City Boy car can seat four people, including the driver, and travel 150 km on a single charge. It takes just two hours to recharge and features a medium voltage drivetrain, onboard charger, sunroof, and air conditioning.

Engineered for the local market, the cars are designed to handle Bangladesh’s muddy and flooded roads. “We chose components carefully to meet the needs of our drivers and passengers,” explains Apal Saha, a Mechanical Engineer at Palki Motors.

Battery-Swapping Technology

One of the company’s standout innovations is battery-swapping. This feature allows drivers to exchange drained batteries for fully charged ones in just two minutes, ensuring they stay on the road and maximize their earnings.

Overcoming Challenges in Car Manufacturing

Building a Factory in Dhaka

Starting an electric vehicle manufacturing company in Bangladesh comes with its challenges. Finding a suitable location for the factory was a significant hurdle for the Palki Motors team. Eventually, they secured a facility in Dhaka, where they now handle welding, painting, and testing.

While the company imports certain parts like car bodies from China, the goal is to localize production further. With a solar-powered assembly plant spanning 7,000 square meters, Palki Motors is committed to sustainable manufacturing practices.

Navigating Legal and Regulatory Barriers

As of now, the City Boy car is not fully road-legal. Palki Motors is working closely with Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) to acquire the necessary permits. To meet deadlines for pre-orders, they have secured temporary permissions for test drives.

The company is optimistic about overcoming these hurdles and delivering its first batch of cars soon.

Recognition and Global Impact

Palki Motors’ dedication to innovation and sustainability has not gone unnoticed. In 2025, the company won the prestigious Zayed Sustainability Prize in Abu Dhabi, receiving $1 million in funding. This recognition has enabled Palki Motors to scale up production from 10 vehicles a month to 100.

“Winning this prize motivates us to push harder. We believe in technology’s power to uplift communities, and we’re excited to expand globally,” says Momin.

With over 23,000 beneficiaries to date, the company is proving that sustainable transportation can drive economic and social change.

A Vision for the Future

Expansion Plans

Palki Motors is more than a car manufacturer. It’s a catalyst for change. The company aims to expand its reach, both in Bangladesh and internationally. Plans include producing electric lorries and partnering with ridesharing platforms to make EVs accessible to more drivers.

Strategic collaborations with financial institutions will also help drivers finance their vehicles, reducing upfront costs and encouraging wider adoption.

Long-Term Goals

Palki Motors envisions a future where electric vehicles dominate Bangladesh’s roads, reducing pollution and fostering economic empowerment. By investing in research and development, the company aims to continuously improve its products and make sustainable transportation a reality for all.

Why Palki Motors Matters

Palki Motors is not just transforming transportation—it’s addressing some of Bangladesh’s most pressing issues. From reducing carbon emissions to improving the livelihoods of underprivileged drivers, the company’s impact is far-reaching.

Its focus on affordable, locally manufactured EVs sets it apart from competitors, making sustainable mobility accessible to a broader audience.

Be a Part of the Revolution

Palki Motors represents the future of transportation in Bangladesh. Through innovative design, eco-friendly practices, and a commitment to social good, the company is paving the way for a greener, more inclusive future.

If you believe in the power of sustainability and innovation, support Palki Motors’ journey. Whether you’re a driver looking for a better alternative or an investor interested in making a difference, Palki Motors invites you to join their mission.

The road ahead is electric—let’s drive towards it together.