KATHMANDU: Electric vehicles equipped with backup internal combustion engine generators, known as Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs), are now the fastest-growing type of powertrain globally, according to BloombergNEF’s Electric Vehicle Outlook 2025.
These vehicles mainly run on battery power but include a small petrol engine that acts as a generator when needed.
EREVs are similar to hybrids but rely more on electricity. The wheels are powered only by electric motors, and the battery can be charged like a regular EV. The petrol engine doesn’t drive the wheels directly, but charges the battery efficiently when power is low.
This setup allows drivers to plug in the car at home or refuel at a gas station, offering flexibility similar to plug-in hybrids but with a greater focus on electric driving.
Sales of EREVs in China surged by 83% in 2024, reaching 1.2 million units. EREVs are becoming a preferred choice for drivers who want to reduce fuel use without fully switching to electric.
Li Auto, a Chinese EV company, is currently the global leader in this segment.
One of the biggest reasons for the rising popularity of EREVs is their ability to ease range anxiety. Since the petrol generator kicks in only when necessary, most daily trips can be completed on electric power, without the fear of getting stranded without a charger.
While China leads the global EREV market, European and American automakers like Stellantis, Nissan, Ford and RAM are also exploring the technology and starting to introduce EREV options in their lineups.
Despite the benefits, EREVs come with added complexity. Since they include both electric and combustion systems, the maintenance costs might be higher than other vehicles.
Even so, EREVs are proving to be a strong transitional solution to the people who live in places with limited access to fast charging infrastructure.
In the context of Nepal, EREVs can be a practical solution for many users. As the EV market grows in Nepal, EREVs could play a key role in encouraging more people to shift towards cleaner mobility without the fear of running out of charge. The Nissan X-Trail e-POWER can be considered an EREV and is currently available in Nepal with a price tag of Rs 18.7 million.
