Five most imported electric cars of 2024/25 [With list]

KATHMANDU: Nepal imported a total of 11,952 units of electric cars in the fiscal year 2024/25 which ended in mid-July.

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers dominated the Nepali market with their feature-loaded and competitively-priced models.

Data provided by the Department of Customs shows, cars from three Chinese brands and one Indian brand featured in the top-five list. Chinese brand BYD had two models in the list, while MG, Dongfeng Nammi and Indian automobile giant Tata had one model each in the top five

Among these five best-selling EVs, three are SUVs and and two are hatchbacks.

These are the five most imported cars of 2024/25:

5. Tata Punch EV
Distributed in Nepal by Sipradi Trading, the Tata Punch EV made it to the top five with 850 units imported in less than a year since its launch. The model’s success is credited to its smart design, high ground clearance and SUV-like feel.

The top variant of the Punch is priced at Rs 3.999 million and comes with a 35 kWh prismatic battery and a 98 kW motor. The entry-level variant is available for Rs 3.499 million.

4. Nammi 01
Imported by MAW Vriddhi, the Dongfeng Nammi 01 made a strong impact in Nepal’s hatchback market. Customs data shows 1,017 units of Nammi 01 were imported in 2024/25.

The four-meter hatchback is available in two motor options: 70 kW and 50 kW. The price starts from Rs 3 million and goes up to Rs 3.5 million.

3. BYD Atto 3
The BYD Atto 3 secured the third position with 1,030 units imported in the previous fiscal year. Available in Superior and Advance variants, this SUV has been among the top-selling models since BYD’s local distributor, Cimex Inc, launched it in the Nepali market in 2023.

The Atto 3 is equipped with a 100 kW motor and comes in two battery options: 49 kWh and 60 kWh. The price of the electric SUV ranges from Rs 5.69 million to Rs 6.78 million.

2. MG S5
The MG S5 claimed the second spot with 1,052 units imported, even though the SUV was launched only in February. Equipped with rear-wheel drive motor and independent suspension, the S5 quickly became popular among Nepali consumers. It is powered by a 99 kW electric motor and comes with either a 49 kWh or 62 kWh battery. Distributed by Paramount Motors in Nepal, the price of the S5 starts at Rs 4.399 million and goes up to Rs 5.499 million.

1. BYD Dolphin
The BYD Dolphin became Nepal’s most imported EV in 2024/25. A total of 1,230 units of Dolphin were imported into the country during the year. Its popularity in the domestic market is driven by an affordable price point and feature-rich package.