Deepal S05 On-Money Trend Emerges in Pakistan
The on-money trend has rapidly emerged in Pakistan’s automobile market just months after the vehicle’s official launch. The electric SUV entered the local market in November 2025 with an ex-factory price of around Rs. 9,999,000. Despite being a newly introduced model, the car quickly became part of Pakistan’s long-standing “on-money” culture.
Dealers and market intermediaries now demand additional payments ranging from Rs. 500,000 to Rs. 1.7 million above the official price. Because of this situation on-money issue has become a major topic among car buyers and industry observers.
Many customers expected quick delivery after booking the vehicle. However, supply shortages and production delays have created a gap between demand and availability. As a result on-money practice continues to grow across major cities.
Launch Success Turns into Market Speculation
The Deepal S05 attracted strong interest from Pakistani consumers soon after its launch. Buyers showed enthusiasm for the model because it combines modern electric vehicle technology with premium features and competitive pricing compared to other imported EVs.
The vehicle offers advanced driver assistance systems, modern infotainment features, and an electric powertrain designed for improved efficiency. These factors increased demand significantly, which allowed the on-money trend to gain momentum in the resale and dealership market.
Auto market analysts believe the combination of high demand and limited supply has created ideal conditions for speculation. When supply cannot meet demand quickly, investors and dealers often take advantage of the situation. This pattern explains why on-money premium appeared within just a few months of its introduction.
Company Responds to Delivery Delays
The model is locally marketed and distributed by Master Changan Motors in Pakistan. The company recently issued a statement acknowledging delivery delays and apologizing to customers who have been waiting for their vehicles.
According to the company, the delay occurred due to the late arrival of CKD kits required for local assembly. Production temporarily slowed down because of these supply chain issues. However, the company confirmed that its assembly plant in Karachi has resumed full production.
The management also assured customers that pending orders will receive priority delivery. Despite these assurances, the on-money demand in the market remains high due to the backlog of bookings.
Buyers Express Frustration Over Delays
Many customers have voiced their frustration on social media groups and automotive forums. Several buyers claim they completed full payments during the initial booking period in November 2025 but have still not received their vehicles.
Some customers report that delivery timelines remain unclear. Others say dealership representatives provide inconsistent information regarding expected delivery dates. This uncertainty has contributed to the rapid growth of the on-money premium in the open market.
Buyers who want immediate delivery often choose to pay the extra amount demanded by dealers or investors who already hold booking slots. Because of this situation, delivery slots themselves have become tradable assets. As a result, the on-money practice continues to expand in the secondary market.
Artificial Shortage Raises Concerns
Industry experts say the rising on-money trend may indicate an artificial shortage in the market. Limited supply naturally raises prices, but some critics believe certain dealers may prioritize customers willing to pay extra premiums.
This practice has appeared before in Pakistan’s automobile market with popular vehicle launches. In many cases, booking holders resell delivery slots for profit while genuine buyers struggle to obtain vehicles at official prices.
Analysts warn that the continued spread of the on-money culture could harm consumer confidence. The situation may also discourage buyers who expect transparent pricing and reliable delivery commitments.
Impact on Pakistan’s Growing EV Market
Pakistan’s electric vehicle sector is still in its early development stage. Government policies aim to encourage EV adoption by offering tax incentives and promoting environmentally friendly transportation.
However, experts believe practices such as on-money could slow consumer trust in this emerging market. When buyers face unpredictable prices and delayed deliveries, many hesitate to invest in new technology vehicles.
Automotive analysts emphasize that transparent booking systems and strict dealership monitoring can help resolve such issues. Clear delivery schedules and fair allocation policies could also reduce speculation in the market.
The Real Challenge for Master Changan Motors
For Master Changan Motors, the success of the Deepal S05 now depends on more than strong sales figures. The company must also rebuild customer trust and ensure transparent vehicle allocation.
Industry observers believe the company’s response in the coming months will determine whether the on-money problem fades or continues to grow. If production remains stable and deliveries improve, the extra market premium may gradually disappear.
Until then, the on-money trend remains a key challenge in Pakistan’s automotive sector, highlighting the need for better regulation, fair dealership practices, and stronger consumer protection in the rapidly evolving EV market.
