In the first quarter of the current fiscal year (FY 2082/83), Nepal imported over Rs 7.5 billion worth of electric cars, jeeps, and vans, according to data released by the Customs Department on Sunday.

A total of 3,203 electric vehicles (EVs) were imported, generating Rs 468 million in revenue for the government. In Kartik alone, 583 EVs were imported. Previously, 2,134 units arrived in Ashoj and 486 units in Saun and Bhadra.

During the first four months of the fiscal year, Nepal imported 2,464 EVs worth Rs 228 million, earning the government Rs 505 million in revenue.

Increase in Fuel-Powered Vehicle Imports

Imports of petrol-powered cars, jeeps, and vans also rose in the same period. According to Customs data, petrol vehicle imports increased by 54.25% compared to last year, with a total of 2,465 units valued at Rs 229 million imported in four months. This represents 867 more vehicles than the same period last year, when 1,598 petrol vehicles were imported. Revenue from petrol vehicle imports reached Rs 509 million.

Petrol vehicles now make up 43.49% of total vehicle imports, with 5,668 cars imported in the first four months of the fiscal year.

Two-Wheeler Vehicle Imports Also Rise

The import of two-wheeled vehicles—motorcycles and scooters—has increased as well. In the first four months of FY 2082/83, 106,768 units were imported, up 25.68% (21,800 units) compared to 84,890 units in the same period last year.

Among these, 81% (86,339 units) were unassembled (CKD), while 20,351 units were fully assembled. Popular brands such as Royal Enfield, Bajaj, TVS, Yamaha, Hero, Honda, and CFMoto are assembled locally in Nepal.

Most two-wheelers are imported from India and China, though traders report difficulties in importing electric vehicles due to recent disruptions at northern border points with China.

The data reflects a growing demand for both electric and conventional vehicles, indicating increased economic activity and consumer interest in alternative mobility in Nepal.