Kathmandu-The Ministry of Health and Population is set to introduce electric ambulances in Nepal. A study committee, led by an associate professor from Pulchowk Engineering Campus, has been formed for the project.
The ministry is also in discussions with stakeholders and businesses.
Currently, only vehicles with internal combustion engines are used as ambulances in the country.
While the government had previously considered new standards for ambulances, it is now focusing on incorporating electric vehicles into the system.
The government has prioritized electric vehicles by offering tax breaks on imports, contributing to their increasing use in both private and public transportation. However, the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport’s recent regulation allows both electric and petrol cars to be registered as taxis.
In contrast, Bagmati Province has opted to register only electric vehicles as taxis, reflecting a shift toward greener transportation. The federal government’s stance, allowing petrol cars, has been seen as a step back.
In response, the Ministry of Health is preparing guidelines for using electric vehicles as ambulances, aiming to reduce pollution and promote environmentally friendly options.
The proposed standards for electric ambulances include:
- Suitability for Nepal’s geography
- A battery capacity of at least 50 kilowatt-hours
- Dual motor configuration with a minimum of 200 kilowatts of power, or a single motor with over 150 kilowatts
- A real-world driving range of at least 200 kilometers
- Support for fast DC or AC charging
- A ground clearance of 170 mm or more
- Documentation confirming the availability of a fast-charging station in the service area
