KATHMANDU: Electric vehicle adoption is rising in Nepal. In 2025, around 73 percent of new car sales were EVs. Tax benefits, low running costs, new technology, and better charging infrastructure have supported this growth.
The trend has reached the Cabinet level. Nearly half of the current ministers are using EVs. Popular brands include MG, Kia, BYD, Dongfeng, and Skywell.
MG is the most common brand among ministers. Home Minister Sudan Gurung and Federal Affairs Minister Pratibha Rawal both use the MG S5 EV. The model is priced between Rs 4.4 million and Rs 5.5 million.
Energy Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha also owns an MG EV, although the exact model is not disclosed. He stated he bought it for Rs 1.975 million. He also owns a Toyota Land Cruiser and a scooter.
Education Minister Sasmita Pokharel owns two EVs. These include the BYD Dolphin EV and the Kia Niro EV. Their prices are around Rs 3.95 million and Rs 7 million respectively.
Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal owns a Dongfeng Voyah Free. He reportedly purchased it with a loan for around Rs 4 million.
Industry Minister Gaurikumari Yadav uses the Hyundai Kona Electric, priced at about Rs 5.7 million.
Law Minister Sobita Gautam owns an EV worth around Rs 9.5 million. It is believed to be the Skywell ET5. She also owns another car and a scooter.
Some ministers still use petrol vehicles. Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle owns a Subaru XV. Health Minister Nisha Mehta uses a Hyundai Grand i10.
Communication Minister Bikram Timilsina owns a car worth Rs 2.3 million, but the brand is not disclosed. Tourism Minister Khadkaraj Poudel owns a Jeep and two scooters.
Forest Minister Geeta Chaudhary uses only a scooter. Labor Minister Ramji Yadav rides a Yamaha motorcycle. Women and Children Minister Sita Wadi uses a scooter, while her family uses a Bajaj Pulsar.
Prime Minister Balen Shah has declared no personal vehicle. Infrastructure Minister Sunil Lamsal has also reported no vehicle ownership.
