Public Reactions Intensify Over FBR’s Rs6bn Honda City Car Procurement

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has faced public backlash for deciding to buy 1,010 new Honda City 1.2L CVT cars, which will cost around Rs 6 billion.

Reportedly, a notice was sent to Honda Atlas Cars (Pakistan) Limited on January 10, 2025, confirming the issuance of a Letter of Intent for the purchase; this prompted criticism on social media.

In the first stage of the purchase, the FBR will pay Rs3 billion for 500 vehicles. In the second stage, they will partially cover the cost of the remaining 510 units. With 75 cars coming in January, 200 in February, and the rest spaced out over the following months, delivery will commence this month and finish by May 2025.

Special Specifications

The FBR has asked Honda Atlas Cars to incorporate a range of custom features into the vehicles, including:

• A navigation system equipped with a reverse camera and online trading platforms.
• Premium interior finishes to enhance comfort.
• Complimentary periodic maintenance for up to 20,000 kilometers or one year.
• An extended warranty covering four years or 100,000 kilometers, contingent upon regular maintenance at authorized Honda service centers.
• Prominent display of the FBR logo on the front doors and windscreen.
• Installation of a tracker system, with service charges of Rs 8,500 (excluding tax) for one year, the cost of which will be covered by the FBR.

Social media reacted strongly with criticism, as people questioned the spending during tough economic times and increasing taxes on regular employees.

When asked, FBR officials maintained that the acquisition was essential for improving operating efficiency. According to reports, the cars would be used for official purposes such as tax collection.