KATHMANDU : The second edition of the NAIMA Nepal Mobility Expo 2026 is set to begin on August 11 at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu. The auto expo is being organized just ahead of the festive season, with more than a dozen brands preparing to introduce new products to the Nepali market.
Automobile companies, banks and financial institutions, insurance companies, service providers, and other businesses related to the mobility sector will participate in the expo.
Ahead of the event, MeroAuto spoke with Gaurav Sharda, Coordinator of the NAIMA Nepal Mobility Expo 2026, about the preparations, plans of participating companies, new vehicle launches, and what consumers can expect from the exhibition. Edited excerpts:
How far have preparations for the auto expo progressed?
The construction of stalls at Bhrikutimandap has already gained momentum. Participating companies have received their respective stalls, and vehicle placement will be completed by the evening of August 11.
Last time, many new brands joined the auto expo. This time, with more new models expected, how are you managing the launches?
Certainly, many new products are expected to enter the market. Therefore, we are holding discussions with each participating company to ensure that the launch timings do not overlap as much as possible.
We are also allocating dedicated time for the media. However, vehicles coming from China are facing difficulties due to landslides that have disrupted both the Rasuwagadhi and Tatopani border routes.
Some new vehicles are therefore having difficulty reaching Nepal on time. We will manage the vehicles that arrive and organize the launches accordingly. Our plan is to provide as much information as possible to consumers through the expo.
Auto expos have traditionally focused on vehicle sales. What are you doing this time to make the expo a place to learn about mobility?
Not all companies participating in the expo are there just to sell vehicles. Service providers will also be present. Some companies are participating with charging solutions, while others are bringing parking solutions.
Bosch will showcase what new developments are taking place in the automotive sector. Along with this, we are also organizing learning sessions.
So, the expo will not be limited to vehicle sales. There will be plenty of information and opportunities for those who want to learn and understand the changing mobility sector.
EV models are becoming outdated quickly, with newer models affecting the resale of older ones. Could this create challenges for spare parts and after-sales service?
There should not be a major problem if consumers invest in a good brand and an excellent product.
Companies also have their own limitations. New products are being introduced almost every month. Even major global companies are now showing shorter product cycles as they continue working to offer new technologies and features.
Therefore, there is no need to worry simply because a newer model has arrived. Many vehicles use the same platform. This helps reduce costs, while major components also remain largely the same.
Cosmetic changes do not necessarily affect the core components of a vehicle. Therefore, consumers can confidently purchase EVs. The arrival of newer models should not create major problems in terms of spare parts.
Bhrikutimandap has faced concerns over rain, mud, heat, and parking in the past. What can visitors expect this time?
The lack of a proper exhibition venue is certainly a challenge when organizing large events in Nepal. We try to manage the areas outside the halls as well as possible.
However, visitors will not have to face such problems inside the exhibition halls. Instead of worrying about heat, mud, or rain, visitors will get to see internationally designed and presented stalls.
As for parking, we will be using the parking facilities at Bhrikutimandap as well as the Police Club. In addition, we are also working on some collaboration with Pathao, through which visitors may receive a discount on fares.
Auto expos also help connect with future consumers. Are you bringing students from schools and colleges to the expo?
Everyone interested in the automotive sector is welcome at the expo.
We are also collaborating with two colleges for knowledge-sharing programs. Our aim is to gradually connect the younger generation with the automobile and mobility sector.
We believe that the expo can be an important platform for young people to learn about the changing automotive industry and understand the technologies shaping the future of mobility.
