KATHMANDU: Five automakers are preparing to launch their new electric vehicle (EV) models in the Nepali market after the announcement of the 2025/26 fiscal budget on May 28.
These brands with a strong presence in Nepal—Deepal, Jaecoo, BYD, Dongfeng and Kia—are preparing to launch their new offerings in the country. However, they plan to introduce the new models only after customs duties and other taxes for the new fiscal year are finalized in the budget speech.
These cars will be available in the price range of Rs 4.5-6.5 million in the existing tax structure. The exact pricing, however, will depend on changes in tax structures for the new fiscal year.
Deepal is bringing the S05, while Kia is introducing the EV5, and Jaecoo is bringing the J5. Likewise, BYD is launching the Sealion 7, and Dongfeng’s Forthing brand is launching its Friday SUV.
The Deepal S05 will be manufactured in Thailand, the Kia EV5 in South Korea, and the Jaecoo J5, BYD Sealion 7 and Forthing Friday in China.
Despite their different production origins, all models were researched and developed in China, which means they share similar features and technologies.
Deepal S05
MAW Vriddhi, the official distributor of Deepal in Nepal, has seen significant success with models like the Deepal S07. The S05, which has received positive reviews in Thailand, will be available in Nepal with two battery options. MAW Vriddhi plans to finalize pricing and other details of the car after the budget speech. The S05 is expected to be available for sale at the Nepal Mobility Expo, scheduled for August 6 to 10.
“We will confirm the S05’s pricing and specifications right after the budget and bring the vehicle to Nepal. It will be available for purchase at the expo auto show,” an official of MAW Vriddhi told Mero Auto.
The Deepal S05 is offered in Light, Plus, and Max variants in Thailand. All three variants are likely to be launched in Nepal.
The SUV measures 4,620 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 1,600 mm in height, with a 2,880 mm wheelbase. It features advanced technologies similar to the S07, including high-definition cameras, five millimeter-wave radars, 12 ultrasonic radars, intelligent parking systems, cruise control, and lane-centering control.
The S05’s body combines steel and aluminum, and it has six airbags and hidden AC vents. It boasts a 15.4-inch central touchscreen, a large heads-up display (HUD), and Qualcomm’s SA8155P automotive chip. Powered by a 175 kW motor, the car comes with a 56.12 kWh LFP battery pack, which offers a CLTC range of 510 km. The real-world range is estimated to be around 400 km. Additional features in the S05 include a 50W wireless charger, an eight-way adjustable driver’s seat, a panoramic sunroof, 64-color ambient lighting, and a 492-liter boot.
Jaecoo J5
SPG Automobiles, the official distributor of the Jaecoo brand from Chery, is planning to launch the electric Jaecoo J5 SUV in Nepal soon after the upcoming national budget is announced. The Jaecoo J5 is a compact electric SUV. It will come with a 60.9 kWh battery made by BYD, which can offer a driving range of up to 470 km as per NEDC standards. In real-world conditions, the range is expected to be around 400 km. The model is likely to enter the Nepali market in the rear-wheel-drive version, which produces 134 horsepower.
The vehicle will include several safety features, such as an anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability control, traction control, a 360-degree camera, a tire pressure monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert. The J5 will also have design features like a closed front grille and aerodynamic wheels. The SUV is expected to offer a 10.25-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless phone charging. For added comfort, it will have heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry and a push-button start system.
Kia EV5
Continental Trading, Kia’s official distributor in Nepal, has begun preparations to launch the EV5. It plans to launch the vehicle after factoring in tax changes introduced through the new budget.
Known internationally for its affordability, the EV5 is a standout model in terms of size, measuring 4,615 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,715 mm in height. The EV5 features a 64.2 kWh battery, previously used in the Kia Niro, offering a WLTP range of 400 km with a 160 kW motor. An all-wheel-drive variant with an 88.1 kWh battery includes a 160 kW front motor and a 70 kW rear motor, delivering a combined 230 kW (308 horsepower) of power and a 470 km range.
The EV5 uses hard plastic for doors, soft-touch materials for the dashboard, and fabric-leather seats. It features a four-spoke steering wheel, a 12.3-inch digital cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment system, and a separate 5-inch AC control screen.
BYD Sealion 7
Cimex Nepal, the official distributor of BYD electric vehicles, will introduce the BYD Sealion 7, a mid-size electric SUV, after the budget speech. Built on BYD’s advanced e-Platform 3.0, the Sealion 7 features a bold, modern design and is available in multiple variants, including two-wheel and four-wheel-drive options. The top variant, equipped with dual electric motors, offers enhanced performance. A key highlight of the car is its impressive driving range of 550–700 km on a single charge, depending on the variant.
The SUV uses the Blade Battery, which supports fast charging, reaching 30% to 80% capacity in under 30 minutes. The premium interior includes a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, a digital instrument panel, wireless phone charging, voice control, a panoramic sunroof and advanced safety features.
Designed for both urban commuting and long-distance travel, the Sealion 7 combines versatility with cutting-edge technology. It is expected to be available in the price range of Rs 8–9 million.
Forthing Friday
Laxmi e-Mobility, the official distributor of Dongfeng’s Forthing brand, is also awaiting the budget speech for the launch of the Forthing Friday electric SUV. Two test units of the vehicle have already arrived at the customs yard, with deliveries expected to commence post-budget. Built on the SX5G-EV platform, the SUV will be available in two variants: Luxury (Rs 5.696 million) and Executive (Rs 6.296 million).
The car is powered by a 99 kW electric motor delivering 340 Nm of torque, with a top speed of 180 km/h and a range of up to 400 km. Its 64.4 kWh LFP battery fully charges in 5.5 hours using an 11 kW AC charger and reaches 30% to 80% in 35 minutes with a 120 kW DC fast charger. The modern design is complemented by features like a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, dual 10.25-inch screens and a crystal gear knob. The Executive variant adds a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control and an electric tailgate.
Safety features in the car include six airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability program (ESP), blind-spot detection, hill assist and collision-activated systems, ensuring a secure driving experience.
