Kathmandu-Lower operating costs and easy imports from China have increased the inflow of electric commercial vehicles such as microbuses, vans, and minibuses into Nepal. The number of Chinese brands supplying these vehicles has also grown in recent years.

Nepal imported 3,761 electric commercial vehicles in 2025. The imports included vans, microbuses, minibuses, electric pickups, and trucks.

Chinese products dominated the imports. Eleven seater vans and microbuses with up to 14 seats held the largest share. Imports of electric minibuses with 15 to 25 seats have also started rising.

Nepal imported 396 electric commercial vehicles in January 2026. Neosia electric vans recorded the highest import. Customs data shows Amber Motors imported 155 Neosia vans during the month.

Neosia vehicles were earlier imported under the KYC brand name. The same model is now sold under a new name and logo.

Electric commercial vehicles from 17 brands entered Nepal in January. Imports included 20 units of Navico, 25 of Joylong, 26 of Kawe, 27 of Dongfeng, 34 of Kama, 34 of Kinglong, and 36 of Golden Dragon.

Demand for 11 seater vans and 14 seater microbuses has increased for short and medium routes and commercial use. Nepal now has more than 35 brands of electric microbuses and vans with several models.

Large business houses and startup operators have entered the import market. Some brands are established while many remain unbranded. Several belong to Chinese startup firms and some face financial stress. Buyers prefer brands that ensure spare parts supply and servicing and those exported to other countries.

Transport operators are shifting towards electric vehicles due to lower operating costs. Operators can charge fares similar to diesel microbuses, which supports the transition.

However, complaints about delays and high costs in spare parts and servicing have started to emerge. Operators say importers must address this issue quickly to maintain consumer confidence.

Electric commercial vehicles imported in January 2026:

Foton 1
Sunlong 1
Johnson 1
AIMO 2
Purple Elephant 2
Wanda 2
Aucwell 3
Wuling 7
Higer 20
Navico 20
Joylong 25
Kawe 26
Dongfeng 27
Kama 34
Kinglong 34
Golden Dragon 36
Neosia 155