Best Electric Cars in Nepal | Omoda Jaecoo Nepal EV

Introduction

The current state of EV adoption is at full swing, as about 70% of cars being sold in Nepal are electric. The constant engine rumble and air pollution from carbon emission vehicles are being replaced by quiet and carbon-free electric vehicles (EV) in the form of cars, jeeps, motorcycles, etc.

With changes in government vehicle policy and people's interest, the automobile industry is pivoting towards electric, making it a smart policy for the economy and environment. Let's jump into why Nepal is adopting EV on an extensive scale.

History

Around 1995, the introduction of EVs in Nepal took place with three-wheelers (battery powered tempo) replacing diesel powered tempos. The government started to understand the benefits of EVs towards the environment, yet the policies hardly changed for electric vehicles.

Small-scale projects like electric Safa tempos took place. Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) started diving into electric vehicles and EV charging options. The government introduced tax incentives on EVs so people can easily buy them, transitioning to EV adoption by making it cheap, with tax breaks, etc. When the NEA solved load-shedding issues, and with government tax breaks, people started to adopt electric vehicles at a great pace.

Fast forward to today, electric vehicles are being used in a lot of areas with massive adoption and imports, fuel engines are being replaced, and we are heading towards green cities.

Adoption of EV

Past Days:

Started as an experiment to become one of the top importers:Nepal’s transition was not a quick shift but the outcome of years of awareness, policy shifts, and technical advancement. The first introduction to the electric environment was through electric public transport, Safa Tempo, in Kathmandu Valley as a replacement for diesel tempos, which became an early environmental consciousness. The cost of electric vehicles was high with minimal options; less knowledge, awareness, and technology didn’t attract consumers. The government policies did not favor it as well.

Present (Turning Point):

The advancement of technologies and increasing awareness led to growing adoption of electric vehicles. The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) and the government played a critical part and are the main catalysts for this change. NEA started to deliver electricity at a stable rate as Nepal suffered extreme electricity shortages and loadshedding. This stability brought a sense of safety among consumers, as electric vehicles consist of batteries and need to be recharged before use, and this can be done at home. The recharge price with electricity is far cheaper than filling up with petroleum products as well; the extensive rise in petroleum products with no tax breaks started to be a pain point for consumers, making them ditch fuel emission vehicles.

The government played its role by changing policies for electric vehicles regarding import tax. They slashed the import duties for EVs but kept the fossil fuel high so people would switch to EVs. This decision led to hypergrowth in electric vehicle adaptation, like cars, jeeps, motorcycles, etc., which increased imports and sales domestically and lowered noise and air pollution to some extent. Since then the use and adaptation of EVs towards public transportation has shown exponential growth. Now NEA and private companies have introduced charging stations where electric vehicles can be recharged similarly to petroleum stations at different locations.

Future Condition and Growth:

Attractive factors

The mass EV adoption in Nepal is happening due to all of the positive aspects discussed below.

• The number one reason for the adoption of electric vehicles is financial incentives. Import taxes and duties are very low compared to petroleum vehicles. E.g., 200%+ total taxes for fossil fuel cars, but with EVs, taxes start from just 10% (EV taxes depend on vehicle type and its range).
• As over 90% of Nepal’s electricity comes from hydropower, EVs will run on clean, renewable energy and save money on petroleum imports with home charging.
• It contributes to the environment, as electric vehicles have no sound and carbon emissions, being a solution to noise and air pollution.
• Modern EVs provide fast charging, long ranges, and attractive features, making them a great replacement.
• It can be a practical option, as Kathmandu is well within the EV range. It saves money, as it can be refueled at home overnight.

Challenges

Though adaptation of electric vehicles is at an all-time high, there are things you need to be aware of, mentioned below:

• The upfront cost is very high despite significant tax breaks compared to petrol vehicles. This discourages a lot of buyers.
• The fear of getting stranded due to running out of charge without an EV charging station close by is common among people. The time required to fill up an electric car is very high.
• Despite doing lots of improvement, NEA still can't provide electricity equivalent to the requirement with stability.
• Electric vehicle batteries are expensive to replace with no recycling system. The range decreases over time, making travel uncertain. The resale value is also very low, making it a tough bargain.
• People are concerned about performance due to Nepal’s roadmap and condition.
• The policies do support and encourage EV adoption but can change in the future.

Future of EV

Nepal shows positive statistics on sales, imports, and usage towards electric vehicle adoption. This change is driven by strategic EV tax incentives, hydropower, and increasing health awareness but needs to fight challenges like expensive upfront costs and lack of charging infrastructure.

With further investment in grid updates and a circular economy of batteries, Nepal will achieve exponential growth in EV adoption and clean cities in the upcoming future.

This journey towards a cleaner, energy-independent future is rocky but achievable.

FAQs

Introduction

Back on August 5, 2025 a decision from a thematic committee meeting asked for embossed number plates to be made mandatory across Nepal from Asoj 1, 2082 (September 17, 2025). These plates are made of durable aluminum with raised characters, have a reflective finish, and include an embedded RFID chip that connects each vehicle to a central database. The policy is intended to standardize vehicle identification, reduce forgery, and pave the way for digital transportation services.

Yet, questions remain about capacity, affordability, and readiness. Many criticized this matter, as the public saw a burden/load coming in their head for no reason. As for now the decision has been slightly changed due to public demand and is made compulsory for newly bought vehicles only. Further decisions and initiatives are on hold.

What is an embossed number plate?

An Embossed number plate, also known as an Electronic Vehicle Number Plate (EVNP), is a high‑security aluminum plate where the alphanumeric characters are pressed (raised) rather than painted. It has an RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) microchip embedded to store and verify key registration data of the owner. And it has a tamper‑resistant, standardized format for consistency and enforcement.

What Are the Different Types of Embossed Number Plates?

Color coding remains consistent with existing conventions while adding digital capability:

• Private vehicles: White background, black letters
• Government vehicles: White background, red letters
• Public & tourist vehicles: Yellow background, black letters
• Diplomatic vehicles: White background, blue letters

This uniform scheme makes visual identification quick, while the RFID chip enables electronic verification.

Reasons Why Government is Forcing Embossed System In

The mandate is intended to deliver public‑interest benefits and modernize governance:

• Anti‑forgery & theft deterrence: Raised characters and RFID make plates harder to clone and easier to trace.
• Digital verification & faster checks: RFID supports quick scanning at checkpoints without long stops.
• Improved tax and renewal compliance: A centralized link between vehicles and records curbs evasion.
• National standardization: One format for plate dimensions, fonts, and layout across Nepal.
• E‑governance foundation: Enables future services like online renewals, ownership transfers, and integrated insurance/traffic systems.

How To Apply for an Embossed Number Plate Online?

Follow these steps to complete your EVNP application:

1) Online application

• Visit the official DoTM portal
• Scroll below and find out embossed number plate registration (इम्बोस्ड नम्बर प्लेट प्रणाली)
• Fill out the vehicle registration details
• Enter your active mobile number for verification
• You’ll receive 6-digit verification code, enter to verify
• Add your official email address (optional)

• Fill in Required Information of Vehicle and OwnerThis information can be found in your bluebook (bill book).

  Vehicle Information

  • Date of Production
  • Vehicle Manufacturer
  • Model Name
  • Engine Type/Model
  • Engine or Motor Serial Number
  • Chassis/Frame Number
  • Engine Capacity (CC)
  • Maximum Output Power
  • Vehicle Weight (for trucks and pickups)
  • Seating Capacity
  • Ownership Category (Government, Commercial, Private, Diplomatic)
  • Vehicle Classification

  Owner Information

  • Registered Name (individual or organization)
  • Citizenship or Passport Details
  • Financing Institution (if applicable)
• Download and Print the Final Form (you will need this hard copy to submit in Transport Management Offices)

2) Visit the Office and Pay the fee (as per vehicle class)

• Two-wheeler: NPR 2,500
• Three‑wheeler: NPR 2,900
• Four‑wheeler (cars/jeeps/vans): NPR 3,200
• Bus/large vehicle: NPR 3,600

3) Prepare and Submit Documents

• Citizenship (individual) or company registration/PAN (business)
• Bluebook copy and original for verification
• Latest tax clearance certificate
• Bank approval letter if the vehicle was financed
• Proof of fee payment (receipt)
• 2 passport-sized photos

4) Biometric Verification & Issuance

• You’ll receive an SMS with the date/time for biometrics at your Transport Management Office.
• Provide fingerprints and submit your Bluebook for final verification.
• Your embossed plate is then issued and affixed to your vehicle.

Where to submit the application?

• Online: Begin with the official DoTM EVNP portal for form submission, document upload, and fee payment. Later, print those forms out and visit your nearest TMO's office.
• In person: Attend your assigned or nearest Transport Management Office for biometrics, Bluebook verification, and final plate collection/installation.

What happens if we don't follow this rule?

Non‑compliance from Asoj 1, 2082 triggers escalating consequences:

• Traffic fines (generally NPR 200–1,000)
• Road tax renewal blocked until EVNP is installed
• Ownership transfer restricted for non‑compliant vehicles
• Potential road‑use limitations for persistent violations

Note: For now the government has held down the “compulsory” tag, so owners of old plates need not worry about these rules.

What Initiatives Does the Government Need to Plan for Proper Execution of Embossed System

For smooth and credible implementation, the following actions are essential:

1. Recalibrate the timeline
   • A phased, region‑wise rollout aligned to actual processing capacity is more realistic than a single hard deadline.
2. Scale up production & daily issuance
   • Expand plate manufacturing, logistics, and on‑site installation capacity at busy offices to handle surges.
3. Complete RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) infrastructure first
   • Ensure scanning gates, control rooms, networks, and data centers are fully operational to realize the digital benefits from day one.
4. Simplify citizen experience
   • Streamline forms, reduce paperwork, extend online services, and staff up counters to minimize queues.
5. Transparent communication & support
   • Run bilingual awareness campaigns explaining costs, steps, and benefits; publish daily processing stats to build trust.
6. Inclusive design choices
   • Consider bilingual (Devanagari + English) character options to address cultural concerns and reduce resistance.
7. Data governance & integration
   • Establish policies for secure data handling; integrate EVNP with tax, insurance, enforcement, and traffic systems for real‑world utility.
8. Independent oversight
   • Monitor delivery milestones across contractors and offices to ensure accountability and course corrections.

Current Situation

• Mandate date: Asoj 1, 2082 (September 17, 2025)
• Cost pressure: Owners face significantly higher costs versus hand‑painted plates, with particular strain on fleet operators.
• Capacity bottlenecks: Historical installation/output has been low relative to Nepal’s 5.5M+ vehicle base; some busy offices report ~100 plates/day processing—insufficient to meet demand quickly.
• Supply status: Hundreds of thousands of plates are produced, with a sizable portion still in storage and awaiting distribution/installation.
• RFID readiness: Plans for multiple RFID scanning gates remain incomplete, limiting immediate digital functionality.
• Public sentiment: Concerns persist around affordability, English‑only script, service delays, and the practicality of enforcing a single nationwide deadline.

Conclusion

Embossed number plates aim to improve security, standardize identification, and facilitate e-governance in Nepal's transportation system. The concept is sound; the challenge is execution. With realistic timelines, completed RFID infrastructure, expanded capacity, and clear public communication, the rollout can shift from controversy to credibility—delivering tangible benefits for citizens, operators, and regulators alike.

Notice For Owners of Omoda & Jaecoo Vehicles

While the government doesn't have proper set rules for the urgency of this system. But it is advised for new buyers and owners of Omoda and Jaecoo to apply for their embossed number plates for their vehicles. You should also keep in mind that sooner or later you will be needed to add to the system, so work on it as suited for you.

FAQs

EVs have become increasingly popular in recent years. This has made a huge turning point in the automotive industry. The ongoing debate of EV vs Petrol/Diesel car are no longer about personal preference but more about cost, performance, and the environment. While the government around the world is pushing for electric cars, new innovations are arriving every year. Let us dive deeper into the key differences between these types of vehicles.

Discover key differences in cost, performance, and environmental impact in this blog. Make the right choice before you buy your next purchase. Make your investment worth it and make the right purchase.

Electric Vehicles (EV)

An Electric Vehicle runs on electricity stored in rechargeable batteries. It uses an electric motor powered by a battery. Which can be recharged time and again. It offers a more sustainable alternative to traditional vehicles as it produces. Zero tailpipe emissions. This helps to control air pollution and greenhouse gases.

Petrol/Diesel Car (ICE)

A petrol/diesel car is a vehicle that is powered by an internal combustion engine (ICE) that uses either petrol or diesel fuel to generate power. It has been the favored car over the last 50 years. It is liked for its quick refueling capacity and long-distance travel capability, but it is also a major reason for air pollution and greenhouse gases.

Performance Comparison

• Acceleration and speed: An EV will more likely outpace a petrol/diesel car, as it has higher acceleration due to its instant torque from the electric motors. Like the OMODA E5 can go 0-100 km/h in 7.2 seconds. While petrol cars, which are of a similar price point, will take around 11-13 seconds to reach 0 to 100 km/h.
• Noise and Driving Experience: Electric vehicles have a more pleasant driving experience, as they are almost silent and have a smooth riding experience. People still like the raw feeling of the petrol and diesel cars, as they produce more sound and vibrations. The liking of the driving experience on the two types of car is mostly based on personal taste.

Range and Convenience

• A typical EV car found in Nepal has a range of about 200 to 400 km on a full charge. There are cars exceeding the 400km range, but they can be more expensive. Depending upon the charger, you can charge in a few minutes in a fast charging station, and it can take up to several hours if you do it at home.
• A petrol car will likely have a mileage of about 15 km per liter. It is more convenient to refuel a petrol car, as there are more fuel stations available. Petrol/Diesel cars have a clear advantage over electric cars in this field.
• EVs these days have better range compared to old ones; new companies are emerging to create the one that suits every situation.
• Nowadays EVs also have a high range with high battery capacity, making them ideal even for long distances. Even if there occurs to be a situation of low battery while travelling, you don't need to worry because most EV companies provide charging stations in every city and are rapidly expanding the installation.

Environmental Impact

EVs are more environmentally friendly, as they have zero emissions while driving. While the elements of the batteries, like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, have a negative environmental effect over their lifetime, the EV cars have a much smaller carbon footprint. Research in battery recycling will further reduce the carbon footprint of an electric vehicle.

Petrol and diesel cars produce a huge amount of emissions directly from burning fuel for power. It is a great contributor to the air population and climate change. Even the modern, efficient engines have greater emissions than EVs. These areas are prone to releasing nitrogen oxides, which are harmful to human health.

Technology and Convenience

EVs often have more advanced technologies in them. Features like over-the-air updates, advanced infotainment systems like in-car entertainment, audio controls, navigation, climate control, smartphone integration, and automatic driving features. They also include regenerative braking systems, smart energy management, and AI-powered driving features.

ICE is less tech-heavy and more often requires manual efforts. This can make it an easier option to repair in remote areas, but the overall technology provided in an electric car is far superior to a petrol or diesel car.

Maintenance Requirements

Maintenance is a lot easier in EVs; there are no oil changes, fewer fluids in them, and fewer moving parts than a typical car. It will also require less frequent maintenance. The brakes are also protected by the regenerative braking feature. The most essential checks will be of battery health and software updates.

ICE cars have a much bigger maintenance cost, as they require frequent oil changes, exhaust checks, and more mechanical servicing. These will lead to high lifetime maintenance costs. They will also require a change of spark plugs, air filter, fuel filters, and timing belts. The complexity of these changes can also lead to huge bills.

Resale and Depreciation

EVs have a much lower resale value than a typical car. Battery degradation, tech updates, and charging infrastructure can play a huge role in the resale value. Models from reputable brands with long battery warranties have better resale value compared to others. But the new international rules, like not being able to own a fuel car older than 20 years, can play a significant role in deciding the resale value of cars.

If you look at the past data, the resale value of ICE cars is much higher. But due to the new government rules, that may all change. Larger engines and luxury cars will still have good resale value, but the stricter emission standards can depreciate the value of normal petrol/diesel cars.

Comparison Table

Switching to EV?

If you are currently planning on switching to an EV or buying a new car, think no more because the technologies in EVs have made them convenient for every situation. If you are looking for an ideal EV that suits your taste and has a wide range of selection, go for OMODA & JAECOO. The OMODAJAECOO provides buyers with a wide range of selections with advanced features; from EV cars for city life to off-roading, it has it all.

The shining part is that the charging stations for Omoda & Jaecoo EVs are spread throughout Nepal, so travel with ease with Omoda & Jaecoo.

Conclusion

EV vs Petrol/Diesel car debate will always come back to personal preference, usage, budget, and requirement. If the new technologies, lowest running cost, and green vehicle are what you're looking for, then an EV will be the ideal choice for you. But if you don't look for these qualities but want long-distance roadability and quick refueling and live in a place with fewer charging stations, then petrol or diesel can be your option.

We all know electric will be the future, but the right choice depends on your personal wants and needs. As time passes by, technology and policies will evolve, and then EVs will be the clear-cut winner between the two.

FAQs