KATHMANDU: Sales of premium electric vehicles (EVs) in Nepal have slowed significantly, with imports of some high-end models coming to a halt in 2025.
Despite their advanced features, attractive designs and strong global branding, these EVs, which are priced above Rs 10 million, have failed to find buyers in the domestic market.
Only a handful of premium EV models are available in Nepal. Since the start of 2025, no new units of these vehicles have been imported. Dealers are still selling stock imported in 2024. This is mainly due to the availability of more affordable Chinese brands.
Chinese EV brands, which dominate the SUV segment with models priced between Rs 4 million and Rs 7.5 million, have become more attractive to consumers. In contrast, high-end South Korean EVs, known for their quality and popularity in Europe and the US, are not finding buyers in Nepal.
Chinese EV brands, which dominate the SUV segment with models priced between Rs 4 million and Rs 7.5 million, have become more attractive to consumers.
A case in point is Hyundai’s flagship EV, the Ioniq 5. Initially launched at Rs 8 million, the price soared to Rs 11.7 million following tax hikes in subsequent budgets. As a result, sales slowed dramatically. Hyundai imported 60 units in the first few months of launch, but only 38 units in 2023 and 22 units in 2024. No Ioniq 5 units have been imported so far in 2025.
According to Laxmi Intercontinental, the authorized distributor of Hyundai vehicles in Nepal, a new variant of the Ioniq 5 featuring a 100 kW electric motor is expected soon. The company has opened bookings for the variant with a 100 kW motor.
Another Korean premium EV, the Kia EV6, has also seen limited success in Nepal. The EV6, which shares the same platform as the Ioniq 5, entered the Nepali market in 2023. However, only 40 units have been imported so far, and none in 2025.
Chinese brand Avatr was launched in Nepal in 2024 through a joint venture between MAW Group and CG Motors. The first batch imported to Nepal included 44 units of the Avatr 11 model. No further imports have been made since then.
Previously, CG Group was handling the brand’s sales, but now MAW has become the official importer.
