KATHMANDU: Nepal’s electric passenger vehicle market is expanding steadily, supported by government incentives, tax benefits, lower running costs, and improving charging infrastructure.
EV adoption started with the Mahindra e2o in 2010. Demand began rising from 2019, with strong growth seen after 2021.
Annual EV car sales have now crossed 10,000 units. In the last fiscal year, around 11,500 units were sold. In the current fiscal year, 7,200 units have already been imported by mid-April. EVs now account for over 70% of new car sales in Nepal.
More than two dozen brands and over 50 EV models are currently available. Among them, nine models have crossed the 1,000-unit milestone as of April 15, 2026.
Top EV models (over 1,000 units )
1. BYD Atto 3 – 4,245 units
Introduced in October 2022, it is the most imported EV in Nepal. Imports peaked in 2024. The model is no longer being imported after the arrival of newer BYD models.
2. Tata Nexon EV – 3,011 units
Available since July 2021, it remains one of the strongest sellers in the SUV segment.
3. Tata Tigor EV – 2,846 units
Primarily used as a taxi rather than a private car. Imports have grown consistently each year.
4. Tata Tiago EV – 2,518 units
Launched in September 2023, it has seen steady demand in the affordable segment.
5. BYD Dolphin – 2,441 units
Entered Nepal in May 2023. Imports have now stopped after newer models were introduced.
6. MG S5 EV – 2,268 units
Launched in April 2023. No units were imported in 2026 so far.
7. BYD Atto 2 – 1,324 units
A recent entry but rapidly growing. It has gained strong market traction within months.
8. Tata Punch EV – 1,231 units
Introduced in July 2024. Demand is rising in the compact EV segment.
9. Dongfeng Nammi – 1,055 units
In the market for about two years, it has gradually crossed the 1,000-unit mark.
Nepal’s EV market has seen strong growth since 2021, with adoption accelerating each year. Electric vehicles now account for over 70% of new car sales, indicating a clear shift in consumer preference.
This growth is mainly driven by supportive government policies, tax incentives, lower operating costs compared to ICE vehicles, and gradual expansion of charging infrastructure across the country.
Models like Deepal S07 and Omoda E5 are close to the 1,000-unit milestone but have not crossed it yet.
