KATHMANDU: Nepal imported a total of 728 passenger vehicles in (Falgun) mid-February to mid-March 2026, according to customs data. The figure is lower than the monthly average of over 1,000 units recorded so far in the current fiscal year 2025/26.
Out of the total imports, 445 units were electric vehicles (EVs), while 283 units were internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. EVs accounted for 61 percent of total imports, compared to 39 percent for ICE models.
The SUV segment dominates
SUVs continued to dominate imports during the month. Of the total 728 units, 455 units or 62.5 percent were SUVs. Within this segment, EV and ICE models were almost evenly split, with 237 EV SUVs and 218 ICE SUVs imported.
Major brands contributing to SUV imports include BYD, Deepal, Chery, Leapmotor, Hyundai, MG, and Tata.
A total of 144 sedan cars were imported in February. EVs dominated this segment, accounting for 141 units, while only 3 units were ICE sedans. Sedans made up 19.78 percent of total imports.
The hatchback segment, including minicars, recorded imports of 128 units during the month. EV and ICE models were almost evenly distributed, with 66 EV hatchbacks and 62 ICE units.
Hatchbacks accounted for 17.58 percent of total imports. Once the top-selling segment, hatchbacks are gradually losing popularity as SUVs become available at similar price points.
MPV imports remained negligible, with only 1 unit entering the country in February.
Overall, February saw a slowdown in passenger vehicle imports, with a continued shift towards EVs and strong dominance of the SUV segment.
