KATHMANDU: Nepal’s electric vehicle market is increasingly shifting from small hatchbacks to compact and mid-size SUVs. SUVs now account for a significant share of EV imports in the country.
Import data from January 1 to August 15, 2026, shows that BYD Atto 2, Dongfeng Nammi Vigo, iCAUR V23, Deepal S05 and Tata Punch EV were the five most-imported electric SUVs during the period.
According to the data, 1,403 units of the BYD Atto 2 were imported during the seven-and-a-half-month period. Dongfeng Nammi Vigo followed with 489 units, while the iCAUR V23 Lifestyle recorded 462 units.
Similarly, 454 units of the Deepal S05 and 392 units of the Tata Punch EV were imported during the period.
BYD Atto 2 leads the list
The BYD Atto 2 is well ahead of the other models in terms of imports. Its compact SUV design, high ground clearance, features and BYD’s established presence in Nepal have helped attract buyers. The model is officially sold in Nepal through Cimex Inc.
The Atto 2 is positioned as a compact electric SUV for urban and family use. It comes with features such as a rotating touchscreen, ventilated seats, Blade Battery technology and ADAS functions.
Nammi Vigo offers a balance of price and features
The Dongfeng Nammi Vigo ranks second with 489 imported units. The model is available in Nepal in E2 and E2+ variants. The current listed prices start at Rs 3.799 million, while the E2+ is priced at Rs 4.399 million.
Its SUV-inspired design, spacious interior, features and competitive pricing have helped the Vigo attract buyers in Nepal. The model has also benefited from its lower price positioning compared with several competing compact electric SUVs.
iCAUR V23 brings a different design
The iCAUR V23 recorded 462 imported units during the period. Unlike conventional urban crossovers, the V23 features a boxy and rugged design inspired by traditional off-road SUVs. Its high ground clearance and lifestyle-oriented design have helped it stand out in the growing EV market.
The Nepal-spec V23 uses a 59.93 kWh battery and a 100 kW rear-wheel-drive motor, with a claimed range of up to 401 km under the CLTC cycle. The model is distributed in Nepal by SPG Automobiles.
Deepal S05 attracts premium EV buyers
The Deepal S05 recorded 454 imported units during the period. Its relatively higher price compared with the other models on the list makes its import volume notable. The S05 targets customers looking for more technology, performance and premium features.
The SUV offers a large infotainment display, advanced driver assistance systems, a spacious cabin and a powerful electric motor. The Deepal brand has also established a growing presence in Nepal’s EV market. Deepal and Nammi models are distributed in Nepal by MAW Vriddhi.
Tata Punch EV benefits from strong brand presence
The Tata Punch EV completes the top five with 392 imported units. Tata’s long-standing presence in Nepal, compact dimensions and SUV-inspired design have helped the Punch EV gain popularity.
The Punch EV is positioned as a compact electric SUV for urban use. It offers features focused on safety, technology, comfort and practicality.
The model also offers relatively high ground clearance and multiple battery and range options, making it suitable for city driving as well as occasional longer trips, distributed in Nepal by Sipradi Trading.
What the import trend shows
The import figures point to a clear change in Nepal’s EV market. Buyers are increasingly looking beyond price and driving range. SUV design, ground clearance, features, technology, brand reputation and overall value are becoming important factors in purchasing decisions.
