Nepal’s automobile sector has shown a significant slowdown in the first 11 months of fiscal year 2082/83, with imports of both electric vehicles (EVs) and petrol-powered passenger vehicles declining.

According to the Department of Customs, the total import of passenger EVs (electric cars, jeeps, and vans) fell by 19.59%, dropping from 13,492 units in FY 2081/82 to 10,849 units in the current fiscal year. The total import value also decreased to Rs 25.57 billion from Rs 31.55 billion last year.

Among EV categories, 51–100 kW vehicles remained the most popular, though imports declined from 7,358 units to 6,357 units. Smaller EVs (up to 50 kW) also dropped to 3,680 units, while larger EVs (101–200 kW) fell sharply to 798 units.

Petrol-powered cars (1000cc–1500cc) also saw a decline of 18.40%, with imports falling from 2,347 units to 1,915 units. Their total import value dropped by 25.93%.

Public transport EV segments such as microbuses and minibuses also recorded a decline, while only three-wheeler electric vehicles showed strong growth, rising by 51.72% in volume.

Overall, the data indicates a broad-based slowdown in Nepal’s automobile market due to liquidity constraints, policy changes, and reduced purchasing power, although small EVs continue to show strong demand.