KATHMANDU: The government is preparing to impose stricter controls on the import of electric vehicles (EVs). The Department of Transport Management has drafted the Vehicle Import, Production and Assembly Directive, 2025, aiming to regulate all types of vehicle imports.
The DoTM had formed a committee, led by Director Shrikant Yadav of the Vehicle Testing, Cross-Border Transport Management and Standards Division, to prepare the draft. standards. The committee has proposed specific criteria, particularly for EV imports, which are now awaiting stakeholder consultations before giving them a final shape.
Under the proposed directive, only vehicles that meet defined technical and regulatory standards will be allowed for import. Importers must obtain prior approval from the department, ensure the necessary physical infrastructure and have qualified technical personnel in place.
For electric vehicles, the draft has outlined detailed technical specifications, including minimum ground clearance, battery life, motor power, range, charging infrastructure and after-sales service requirements.
Key Provisions in the Draft Directive
Prior Approval
Importers will need official approval from the DoTM to bring in any vehicle models. They must submit eight documents along with their application. These include a company registration certificate, authorization as an official dealer, agreement with the vehicle manufacturer, detailed technical specifications, type approval from the country of origin, certificate of conformity for the latest production batch, proforma invoice, and after-sales service and distribution plan.
Infrastructure and Human Resource Requirements
Before importing, companies must have service centers, equipment and trained technical personnel in place. EV importers must also establish charging stations and battery management centers.
Importers bringing in more than 500 units per year are required to build five charging stations and three service centers, and must have five technicians, including one engineer. Similarly, those importing more than 1,000 units must have a minimum of 10 charging stations, five service centers and 10 technicians. Likewise, companies importing more than 5,000 units must have at least 20 charging stations, one battery center, 10 service centers and 15 technicians, while those bringing over 5,000 units must have 50 charging stations, one battery center, 15 service centers, and 20 technicians, including four engineers.
After-Sales Service Guarantee
Importers must maintain a sufficient stock of spare parts and tools. As per the directive, all service centers must be equipped to carry out timely repairs and address customer complaints.
Appointment of Authorized Dealers
Importers can designate authorized dealers or sales representatives. The dealership must be backed by documentation, including a formal appointment letter and product origin certificates. However, ultimate responsibility for customer service and warranty remains with the importer.
Minimum EV Range Requirements
Electric bikes of three-wheelers must have a range of at least 100 km as per the directive. Likewise, four-wheelers must have a minimum range of 300 km per full charge. Likewise, batteries must have a minimum lifespan of 7 years or 3,000 charge cycles. Batteries must also meet UL 2580, IEC 62133, AIS 049 or IS 17017 safety standards. Batteries also must have thermal management systems.
Minimum Ground Clearance
Motor vehicles must have a minimum ground clearance of 180 mm. While cars must have 180 mm ground clearance, buses and SUVs must have 250-300 mm ground clearance.
Only vehicles suitable for Nepal’s geography and compliant with ISO 8608 (road surface standards) will be approved. Essential safety features such as Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) have also been made mandatory.
Free Repair or Replacement Within Six Months
If any vehicle shows operational or manufacturing defects within six months of sale, the importer must repair or replace it free of charge. This obligation excludes cases where the buyer fails to follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
Technical Inspection Before Registration
The DoTM will have the authority to inspect any imported vehicle before registration to ensure it is roadworthy. Roadworthiness tests may be conducted using technical equipment or expert evaluation, according to the directive.
Biannual Reporting Required
Assemblers and manufacturers are required to submit a progress report to the DoTM every six months. Report of the first half should be submitted within the seventh month, while the report for the second half must be submitted within the 12th month.
