Earlier this month, Habib Rafiq Limited (HRL), in collaboration with Zotye Holding Group, introduced the Zotye Z100 – a hatchback – in Pakistan. HRL have long been associated with construction and engineering projects across Pakistan, while Zotye Holding Group are one of the top five Chinese automobile manufacturers.

Muhammad Javed, CFO, HRL says that Pakistan has high growth potential as far as the automobile sector is concerned, and therefore, HRL, under its diversification plan, has decided to venture into it. He adds that the company plans to enter the market with an investment of approximately three billion rupees as the sole distributor, manufacturer and assembler of Zotye passenger cars; HRL intends to set up a complete manufacturing process with wielding, assembly and testing lines within a year-and-a-half.

“In the meanwhile, we will introduce completely built imported units (CBUs) in the market.”

"Pakistan has high growth potential as far as the automobile sector is concerned, and therefore, HRL, under its diversification plan, has decided to venture into it."

The Z100 is available in different variants with engine capacities ranging between 1000cc and 1800cc which are priced between Rs 1.1 million and Rs 1.2 million. The price, says Javed, is “less than any other brand in Pakistan in this category”. Features include five-speed manual transmission, power shutters for all four doors, power mirrors, electronic power steering (EPS), 14-inch alloy wheels and a 4.5 turning radius for easy manoeuvrability. The car is available in a range of colours and safety features that “are better than similar vehicles in the market.” After-sales services will be provided by HRL.

The target market for the Z100 falls into two groups. The first are middle-income segments whose monthly earnings range between Rs 60,000 and 100,000. The second are “companies that provide cars for their employees; since company cars are usually replaced with new ones every three to five years, they have created a steady demand for cars like the Z100 which is cost-effective and efficient.”

Keeping in view the market conditions, HRL Motors believes that Zotye’s unique features and design, backed by reliable after-sale service, will do wonders in the Pakistani market. Going forward, HRL plan to launch Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) and Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HCVs) manufactured by the China-based Dayun Group.