Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Electric vehicle (EV) is the buzzword at the NADA Auto Show 2023 which commenced at the Bhrikuti Mandap Exhibition Hall in Kathmandu on Tuesday.
The country’s premier automobile show is witnessing an unprecedented influx of customers, with a notably higher turnout for electric vehicles compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Prominent ICE vehicle brands such as Toyota, Jeep, Mitsubishi, Honda, Volkswagen, Mazda, and BMW have chosen not to participate in the exhibition. While these companies do not yet offer EVs in the Nepali market, Toyota is an exception, as it is selling a hybrid variant of its popular SUV, the Rav 4.
In contrast, companies like BYD, MG, Neta, Seres, and others are exclusively showcasing electric vehicles. Brands such as Tata, Hyundai, and Kia, which offer both ICE and electric vehicles, have given greater prominence to their electric offerings. The customer interest is also visibly higher at stalls featuring electric vehicles.
Dhruba Thapa, President of the NADA Automobiles Association of Nepal, predicts brisk business for companies selling EVs at the auto show. “Consumers are increasingly favoring electric vehicles over fossil fuel vehicles due to the proliferation of charging infrastructure. Additionally, these vehicles are well-suited for Nepali road conditions and have lower operation and maintenance costs,” said Thapa.
A total of 45 automobile brands are participating in the exhibition which will run until September 17. The event features four-wheeler and two-wheeler brands, as well as exhibitors showcasing lubricants, tires, spare parts, and other automotive materials, as well as banks and insurance companies.
