KATHMANDU : Nepal’s electric scooter market witnessed a major breakthrough in the last fiscal year, with imports more than doubling as consumers increasingly shifted away from petrol-powered two-wheelers.
According to the Department of Customs, Nepal imported 26,115 electric scooters and motorcycles during the fiscal year 2025/26, the highest annual figure on record. This represents a 130.69% increase compared to 11,320 units imported in the previous fiscal year.
Imports of electric two-wheelers were valued at Rs. 2.93 billion, generating Rs. 1.01 billion in government revenue.
EV share nears 10%
The rapid growth has pushed electric two-wheelers close to a 10% share of Nepal’s overall two-wheeler market.
Nepal imported 277,291 two-wheelers in FY2025/26, of which 26,115 units were electric. EVs accounted for 9.42% of total imports, up from just 0.65% six years ago.
Imports increase tenfold in six years
Electric two-wheeler imports have grown steadily over the past six years.
Imports rose from 2,265 units in FY2019/20 to more than 26,000 units in FY2025/26. The figures stood at 3,617 units in FY2020/21, 7,155 units in FY2021/22, 7,747 units in FY2022/23 and 11,320 units in FY2024/25.
What’s driving the surge in demand?
Several factors have accelerated the adoption of electric scooters in Nepal.
The biggest driver has been the sharp rise in petrol prices. Following tensions in the Middle East earlier this year, petrol prices briefly crossed Rs. 220 per liter and continue to hover around Rs. 200 per liter, making electric scooters far cheaper to operate.
Running costs are significantly lower than petrol scooters. A daily commute of around 30-35 km typically requires about Rs. 200 worth of petrol, while charging an electric scooter costs only a fraction of that.
Financing has also become more attractive. Dealers now offer easier loan schemes, making monthly installments comparable to what many riders previously spent on fuel.
At the same time, improved charging infrastructure, better after-sales service, wider spare parts availability and the arrival of longer-range models have increased buyer confidence.
Indian brands lead the segment
More than 30 brands of electric scooters and motorcycles are now available in Nepal, although around a dozen dominate sales.
Unlike the passenger EV market, where Chinese brands lead, Nepal’s electric scooter segment is largely driven by Indian manufacturers. Their established service networks, easier availability of spare parts and stronger brand recognition have made them the preferred choice for many buyers.
Popular brands in the market include Ather, Chetak, TVS, TailG, Yadea, NIU, Segway, Luyuan, Garow and Super Soco.
