KATHMANDU: The Deepal S05 has quickly become one of the leading models in Nepal’s mid-size electric SUV segment. With competitive pricing and a premium package, it has gained strong market acceptance within a short period.
Following the success of the S05 Max launched last year, MAW Vriddhi has now introduced the S05 Plus. The new variant is priced at Rs 5.4 million. It is Rs 600,000 cheaper than the S05 Max.
Deepal vehicles have always stood out for their design. The S05 Plus continues that trend. We drove the vehicle from Kathmandu to Gorkha Durbar, then to Bharatpur, Hetauda, and back to Kathmandu.
Range and efficiency
Let’s begin with the journey itself.
The distance from Thali in Kathmandu to Gorkha Durbar was around 163 km. The vehicle started with a full charge. From Gorkha, we traveled about 80 km to Bharatpur, followed by 75 km to Hetauda and another 84 km to Kathmandu.
The total journey covered 402 km.
During the trip, we added around 20 percent charge in Bharatpur as a precaution. After reaching Kathmandu, the battery still showed 22 percent charge. The entire route was completed using approximately 98 percent of the battery.
Battery
The S05 Plus comes with a 56.1 kWh Golden Shield battery pack.
According to WLTP certification, it offers a driving range of 405 km. During our test, the vehicle delivered a similar result in real-world conditions.
The route included steep uphill sections towards Gorkha. The roads from Gorkha to Bharatpur and Hetauda were mostly flat. The climb from Bhimphedi towards Kathmandu also tested the battery’s capability.
If range is one of your main priorities, the S05 Plus is a strong option.
Motor performance
The S05 Plus uses a 99 kW rear-wheel-drive motor.
Its rear-wheel-drive setup is one of the highlights of the vehicle. The driving character feels different from many front-wheel-drive EVs available in the market.
Acceleration is quick and responsive. The throttle reacts instantly. Whether in city traffic or on highways, the vehicle feels agile and easy to control.
Suspension
The suspension setup is tuned for comfort.
Some body movement can be felt on rough surfaces and at higher speeds. However, ride quality remains comfortable during normal driving conditions.
On highways, especially between 0 and 80 km/h, the suspension performs well and absorbs road imperfections effectively.
Handling and cabin experience
The cabin creates a premium impression as soon as you step inside.
The head-up display, large infotainment screen, digital cockpit and steering wheel design work together to create a modern driving environment.
The steering offers a more natural and slightly heavier feel than many EVs. This improves driver confidence and makes the vehicle feel more connected to the road.
As a result, the S05 Plus delivers better handling than many competitors in its segment.
Verdict
The Deepal S05 Plus combines futuristic design, premium features and enjoyable driving dynamics.
For buyers who want rear-wheel-drive performance, modern technology, a premium cabin and a good audio experience, the S05 Plus offers excellent value for money.
Features such as frameless doors, flush door handles, a sloping roofline and shark-nose front design add to its premium appeal. The lighting performance at night is also impressive.
For drivers who enjoy spending time behind the wheel, the S05 Plus is an attractive package. Its size, spacious cabin and comfortable seats also make it a practical choice for family travel.
