Pakistan’s first fully locally manufactured car, “Proficient,”

Pakistan’s first fully locally manufactured car, “Proficient,” was proposed in the late 1980s by engineer Khalil-ur-Rehman. The car was developed in Karachi under Winmark International.
The vehicle was composed of 95% Pakistani-made parts. The engine, gearbox, and body were all manufactured in Pakistan. Only the glass and a few electrical components like spark plugs were imported.
The car was built in a modest workshop that had no electricity, water, or telephone. The engine block was cast in mud molds and baked in a kiln-like furnace.
Unfortunately, the government at the time did not provide this project with the incentives and facilities that were extended to foreign companies, such as exemption from sales tax. When the makers of “Proficient” requested permission to manufacture a 1000cc family car, the request was denied—yet Suzuki was granted approval for the same.
Due to governmental hurdles, financial constraints, and lack of encouragement, the project could not continue for long. Engineer Khalil-ur-Rehman passed away in 1993, heartbroken, and his dream remained unfulfilled.
The story of “Proficient” is a symbol of self-reliance and the potential of local industry in Pakistan—a dream that sadly failed due to lack of governmental support.