Rehan Shahid , 
Dec 26, 2024
The PakWheels Auto Show 2024 transformed Pakistan’s automotive landscape into a vibrant celebration of ingenuity, passion, and community spirit on Wednesday. This wasn’t just an event; it was a showcase of cutting-edge technology, roaring supercars, and high-octane performances that united car enthusiasts, innovators, and businesses from across the nation.
Powered by Exide, the show brought together a dazzling array of supercars, superbikes, and groundbreaking automotive innovations, paying tribute to the dynamic evolution of Pakistan’s car culture.
Gadinsider was on-site to capture the energy and speak to key players, highlighting how this event has become a cornerstone of the country’s automotive calendar. From the thrilling growl of high-performance superbikes to the quiet promise of lithium-powered energy solutions, the show offered a glimpse into the future of mobility and sustainability.
Thousands of enthusiasts attended, driving in with their modified vehicles, luxury supercars, and precision-engineered performance bikes, creating an unforgettable atmosphere charged with excitement and innovation.
Drifting and daring performances
The audience was energised by drifting displays and high-octane performances by car owners and riders, who demonstrated the power and precision of their machines. Spectators marvelled at one-of-a-kind vehicles, including Mercedes-Benz, Rolls Royce, BMW, Ford Mustang, and Corolla Cross, alongside vintage models like the Volkswagen Foxy. Superbikes such as the Kawasaki Ninja, Suzuki heavy bikes, Honda heavy bikes, and Harley Davidson added further allure to the event.
Modified cars with custom designs and high-performance engines showcased the creativity and dedication of their owners. Revving competitions and acceleration demonstrations from supercar owners also left the crowd in awe, solidifying the event's entertainment value.
First impression squad: Uniting Pakistan’s automotive enthusiasts
One of the event’s highlights was the First Impression Squad, Pakistan’s premier community for sports vehicles. Speaking to Gadinsider, Squad Admin Noman shared insights into the group’s unique ethos: “We are Pakistan’s first group that unites the sports vehicle community, encompassing supercars, superbikes, and 4x4s. Unlike other groups, we operate as one unit and move forward together.”
With over 200 members, including 150 superbike enthusiasts and 100 car owners, the group has built a reputation as Pakistan's leading force in the automotive scene. Reflecting on challenges, Noman noted issues with law enforcement during rides, particularly for superbikes: “If a superbike is moving at 100 km/h, stopping immediately isn’t possible, creating problems. That’s why we prefer rides during lighter traffic hours.”
To ensure safety during events, the group conducts pre-event briefings to promote responsible behaviour during public rides. At the PakWheels Auto Show, the First Impression Squad showcased their commitment to fostering an automotive society. With synchronised group displays and a diverse lineup of vehicles, the squad brought an additional layer of dynamism to the event.
Exide: Transforming energy solutions
Exide’s presence at the auto show underscored its leadership in energy innovation. Dr Kazim Akhtar, Exide’s Research and Development Manager, introduced their new lithium-based batteries designed for residential and commercial energy storage. “Our products, including the Gastery, Dragon, and Atlantic Series, are compact, durable, and perfect for solar systems. These batteries last over 10 years and require no maintenance,” he explained.
The company’s vision extends beyond local markets. Exide’s Country Head Salman Tawfik emphasised the brand’s export ambitions, stating: “Our products cater to both local and international markets, including the Middle East and Afghanistan. Their quality and affordability set them apart from competitors.”
Tawfik also highlighted the increasing demand for Exide’s energy solutions amid rising electricity tariffs. “People need consistent power for basic appliances, and with net metering issues, even urban consumers are turning to battery-based systems,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Exide plans to introduce hybrid inverters and microgrid systems for remote areas to address energy access challenges and government tariff policies. “Our goal is to provide reliable, sustainable energy solutions for a wide range of applications,” Tawfik added.
A community of innovation and passion
The PakWheels Auto Show 2024 was more than an exhibition; it was a platform where innovation met community, uniting enthusiasts and businesses to celebrate the future of automotive and energy solutions in Pakistan.
Superbikers performed exhilarating stunts for the audience, demonstrating their skills with daring and precision. Attendees also had the opportunity to interact with vehicle owners, learning about the unique aspects of customised interiors and enhanced exteriors.
Meanwhile, a series of events on the main stage provided additional entertainment, adding another dimension to the programme. PakWheels also organised a dedicated stall featuring car and bike parts for sale, attracting attendees interested in sourcing high-quality components and accessories for their vehicles.
The diversity of automotive excellence on display included luxury vehicles like Rolls Royce, Deepal, and Mercedes-Benz, as well as vintage classics such as the Volkswagen Foxy. The powerful roar of muscle cars like the Ford Mustang and the sleek designs of superbikes like the Kawasaki Ninja epitomised the passion and innovation driving Pakistan’s automotive culture forward.
The PakWheels Auto Show 2024 was a testament to the transformative power of collaboration and creativity, offering a glimpse into a future where automotive excellence and sustainable energy solutions go hand in hand.
