KATHMANDU: With the electric vehicle (EV) market growing more competitive, buyers in Nepal now have more choices in the mid-range segment. Three electric SUVs, each costing Rs 5.499 million, are currently available from different brands.
These include the Omoda E5 from SPG Automobiles, the MG S5 from Paramount Motors and the newly launched Deepal S05 from MAW Vriddhi. Interestingly, all three models share the suffix ‘5’ in their names, and they compete closely in terms of size, wheelbase and features.
Given the high competition in the mid-range SUV segment, companies are becoming more aggressive in terms of pricing. The MG S5 was launched in early March with its top variant priced at Rs 5.499 million.
Omoda reduced the price of its E5 from Rs 6.999 million to Rs 5.499 million during the recently held NAIMA Nepal Mobility Expo. The company has now consolidated its offerings to a single variant.
The latest entry, Deepal S05, also launched its top variant at Rs 5.499 million last Thursday.
Size and Design
In terms of dimensions, the Deepal S05 is the largest of the three. However, each model has its own design language. The MG S5 features a traditional crossover SUV style, combining a familiar look with modern features. The Omoda E5 stands out as Nepal’s first coupe-style electric SUV and has already built a strong market presence. The Deepal S05, with a sleek and modern design, offers a premium cabin experience but has the lowest ground clearance among the three.
Motor and Battery Specs
All three SUVs come equipped with a 99 kW peak power motor which ensures similar performance levels. However, their battery sizes and driving ranges differ. The Deepal S05 has the smallest battery at 56 kWh, offering a claimed range of 400 kilometers on a single charge. The Omoda E5, with its 61 kWh battery, can deliver up to 430 kilometers per charge. The MG S5 features the largest battery at 62 kWh, but offers the same range as Omoda.
Safety Features
The three models offer more or less similar features in terms of safety. All three cars are equipped with Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The Deepal S05 includes six airbags and 19 features within its ADAS suite. The MG S5 also has six airbags and benefits from an independent rear suspension, which enhances ride comfort on rough roads. The Omoda E5 goes a step further with seven airbags, in addition to its comprehensive ADAS features.
Premium Touches
As the newest entrant in the segment, the Deepal S05 has several luxury touches. It includes remote-controlled forward and backward movement, a seat with knee support for the front passenger, frameless doors and flush-type door handles.
While the MG S5 and Omoda E5 may not offer all of these extras, they still provide a rich set of features in line with premium EV expectations.
