KATHMANDU: Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle has praised the design and engineering of the Yatri P2 electric scooter, saying it stands out from electric vehicles that are only assembled in Nepal.
Wagle made the remarks while unveiling the Yatri P2, the first electric scooter developed and manufactured in Nepal, on Monday evening.
He described the P2 as a “world-class product” and said it challenges the perception that Nepal cannot develop competitive products without relying on foreign countries.
Wagle said Nepal should focus on its own design and engineering capabilities instead of simply copying foreign products.
“Designing, engineering and manufacturing a product in Nepal is a major achievement,” Wagle said. “Instead of copying others, we can compete with foreign brands through our own designs.”
Rajan Babu Shrestha, CEO of Sipradi Trading, said the P2 demonstrates that Nepal has the capability to design, engineer and manufacture electric vehicles.
He said the project is not just about introducing another scooter to the market, but also about showcasing a product created in Nepal.
Sipradi has partnered with Yatri Motorcycles through Sipradi Yatri to develop and manufacture the P2. The partnership is expected to bring more locally developed products in the future.
Yatri P2 specifications
The Yatri P2 is powered by a 10 kW electric motor. It will be available with three battery options: 5.2 kWh, 3.7 kWh and 3 kWh.
The 5.2 kWh battery offers a claimed range of up to 157 km on a single charge. The 3.7 kWh and 3 kWh versions offer claimed ranges of 112 km and 90 km, respectively.
Yatri has equipped the P2 with a DC fast-charging system. The company says the scooter can charge from 0 to 80 percent in 41 minutes using a 3.3 kW fast charger.
Using the home charger, the battery can reach 80 percent in around 2 hours and 50 minutes.
The P2 also supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It features a smart display and real-time energy monitoring.
The battery management system has received certification from India’s Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).
The scooter gets a 1,390 mm wheelbase. The longer wheelbase is expected to provide better stability at higher speeds and on uneven roads. It also provides more legroom for riders.
Sipradi Yatri is also preparing a network of 35 DC fast chargers across Nepal to support the P2.
