KATHMANDU: Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining widespread adoption as the world accelerates its shift toward green energy. Nepal is also experiencing rapid EV adoption with penetration reaching an estimated 65–70%.
Beyond their environmental advantages, EVs are proving to be more reliable than traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. A recent study by the German automobile club, Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club (ADAC), found that EVs experience fewer breakdowns than their ICE counterparts.
The study analyzed 1,000 vehicles manufactured between 2020 and 2022. According to the study, EVs recorded 4.2 breakdowns per 1,000 cars , while breakdowns per 1,000 was 10.4 for ICE vehicles.
Experts attribute this difference to the simpler mechanical structure of EVs, which have fewer moving parts compared to ICE vehicles. This not only reduces maintenance complexity but also lowers overall repair costs.
According to the study, the most common issue in EV breakdowns was failure of the low-voltage auxiliary battery — a component used in both EVs and ICE vehicles. Not significant issues were reported with the high-voltage battery systems in EVs. Other leading causes of EV breakdowns included motor or motor management system failures (18%), tire-related issues (13%), electrical system failures such as generators and starters (10%), key or immobilizer problems (3%), and miscellaneous issues (5%).
With fewer breakdowns and lower maintenance demands, EVs are becoming an increasingly appealing choice for Nepali consumers.
