Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: The country’s largest vehicle exhibition NADA Auto Show is set to begin in Kathmandu on Tuesday. The Auto Show, which will run for six days, is focused on electric vehicles this time. This is the 16th series of the Auto Show organized by the NADA Automobile Association Nepal.
New variants of various brands of motor vehicles will be on display at the Auto Show. Sipradi planning to launch the TATA Punch EV, a compact SUV, while Chinese vehicle manufacturer Dongfeng will be launching its Naami sub-brand during the Auto Show.
Recently, Chinese EV brand BYD has emerged as the highest-selling EV brand in the Nepali market. BYD’s Atto 3 and Dolphin are among the most popular models on Nepali roads.
Most of the leading EV brands are available in the Nepali market. EVs from Hyundai, Kia, MG, Neta, Tata, Audi, Porsche, Wuling and Tesla can be seen on Nepali roads.
The use of EVs is increasing not only in private vehicles but also in public transportation. While Nepali consumers are attracted to EVs because they are based on clean energy, it remains to be proven through practical use whether EVs are truly economical and cost-effective, considering Nepal’s hilly terrain with inclined roads, lack of sufficient charging stations and drainage problems even in urban areas.
Karan Chaudhary, President of NADA Automobiles Association of Nepal, said vehicles and their parts will be exhibited at the Auto Show. Likewise, there is financing arrangements and on-the-spot booking facility. “It’s now about booking and purchasing vehicles only. Anyone interested can visit the Auto Show and get information about the latest market trends,” he added.
According to the Department of Customs, Nepal imported electric vehicles worth Rs 3.95 billion in the last fiscal year.
