Kathmandu- With the fiscal budget approaching, Electronic Vehicles (EVs)  imports have surged amid fears of a potential tax hike and ongoing uncertainty in government tax policy.
Importers and buyers alike are concerned about possible changes, prompting a sharp rise of EV demand in April. 

In April, Nepal imported 1,608 units of cars, jeeps, and vans. EVs made up a significant portion of this, including passenger vehicles, pickups, and multi-purpose vehicles.

A total of 33 car and jeep brands were imported in April, although more than 60 brands are available in Nepal. Traders imported vehicles based on market demand and sales performance. Government customs subsidies have played a key role in boosting EV sales, encouraging the entry of several new EV brands. Customs data reflects this shift, as EV imports have outpaced internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles over the past 3–4 years.

MG led the imports with 386 electric vehicles, all MG S5 models, launched recently. Paramount Motors has already delivered over 150 units, with more on order.

Tata ranked second with 201 electric vehicles, including models like Tiago, Tigor, Punch, Nexon, and Curvv.

Mahindra followed with 189 units, primarily pickups and 9-seaters. No XUV400 EVs were imported this fiscal year.

BYD imported 150 vehicles, mainly the M6 model.

Omoda and Jaecoo brought in 134 units, including the Omoda E5 and Jaecoo J6.

Suzuki imported 88 ICE vehicles, with no EVs. Models included Brezza, Swift, Fronx, and Jimny.

Hyundai brought in 70 ready-to-drive vehicles, excluding CKD units used for local assembly. Imports included models like Creta, Creta EV, Venue, Exter, and Tucson.

Kia imported 66 vehicles, though not the EV9 or EV6. Models included Seltos, Sonet, Sportage, and Sorento.

Proton imported 50 units of the EMAS 7 EV, featuring a 160 kW motor and two battery options.

EVEG also brought in 50 EVs, imported by Sarina G Traders for taxi use.

Other imports included: NAMI (40), Deepal (35), KE (29), Toyota (20), Nissan (16), Aion (16), Ridara (10), and Seres (10) respectively.