Few days ago, a test drive of the all-wheel-drive JAEECO J6 model was underway at the Gokarna Golf Resort. At the resort, Shatyaman Shrestha, a resident of Shankhamul, was asking his friend, “Which EV is the right choice?”
Curious, I joined the conversation. I introduced myself and assured him there was no need to be confused. After a brief chat, I headed toward the test drive area-but our conversation lingered in my mind.
In Nepal, buying a car is often the second-biggest investment after building a house. Just as people carefully research brands and materials-cement, rods, bricks, pipes, tiles and faucets-when building a home, they should take equal care in choosing a car, especially now that electric vehicles (EVs) are taking over the market. Today, petrol vehicles make up just 25–26% of the total vehicle sales, while EV sales are steadily rising. But with so many brands to choose from, picking the right one has become more difficult. Here, I have outlined same points I shared with Mr Shrestha:
Ask about service
More than two dozen EV brands are currently available in Nepal. However, only about half a dozen of them provide proper after-sales service.
Some have been selling vehicles for years without establishing even a single service center. Before choosing a brand, ask the company directly about the service they provide. Also, check how easily they can supply spare parts-this is just as important.
Understand the battery and motor
The heart of any EV lies in its battery and motor. Today, hundreds of startups and major manufacturers across the globe are producing these components.
It is best to go with a brand that uses batteries from established, reputable manufacturers. Also, be sure to understand the warranty terms and key specifications of the motor. This way you can avoid disappointment down the road.
Check the network and charging plan
The EV you buy should be able to take you anywhere in Nepal. For this reason, choose a brand that has a strong nationwide service network.
Private companies are rapidly expanding their charging infrastructure. Before deciding, research what kind of charging network the company already has and what their future plans are. Companies focused on long-term success are making significant investments in this area-so you won’t have to worry about where to charge your vehicle.
Last but not the least, don’t forget to ask about the company’s long-term vision. A strong commitment to growth, service, and infrastructure is one of the most important factors to consider when buying an EV.
