Rehman Automobile and Works
Rehman Automobile and Works was established in 1935 by Late Haji Abdul Rehman at Kapurthala, India. After great hardships, it emerged into a large factory covering an area of about 50,000 square feet (4,600 m2) in 1943 where items were produced such as Royal batteries and plates, Royal carbon products, electrical home appliances, and accessories. Rehman was the only concern in the whole of India that manufactured and supplied carbon products, and the only factory in Northern India to provide batteries and plates.
After partition, the factory went to India and it was re-established in Pakistan from scratch and became the pioneers of the battery industry in Pakistan, according to governmental records. The Tariff Commission inspected the factory in the year 1953 when this was the only factory in Pakistan and made certain recommendations.
The Commission observed, "M/s. Rehman Automobile and Electric Works, Lahore may be reckoned as pioneers in West Pakistan in the production of lead acid accumulators. Their 'Royal' brand batteries have been improved to an appreciable standard and compare favourably with foreign makes. Their management is exerting its best to maintain the standards."[1]
Director General Supply & Development, Government of Pakistan, Karachi noted: "I have to inform you that Accumulators manufactured by you are found to be satisfactory."[2]
Chief Inspector of Electronics and Instruments, Rawalpindi writes: "A sample of battery received with your letter has been tested and found suitable for services."[3]
Several governmental officers visited the factory from time to time and all approved the standard and quality of the products and the production line.