The government is preparing a new roadmap to boost electric vehicle (EV) use across Nepal. A study committee formed by Physical Infrastructure and Transport Minister Kulman Ghising has recommended giving cash subsidies for electric buses and building at least one charging station for every 20 vehicles along major highways.
Electric vehicles rising fast in Nepal
According to the report, as of September 2025, about 76 percent of all four-wheeler imports were electric. In the last five years, EV sales have grown by nearly 30 percent each year, with around 120,000 electric vehicles now in the country.
Committee’s key focus areas
The study team, led by Krishna Raj Pantha, has submitted its report to the government. It suggests:
- Offering tax exemptions and up to 80 percent bank loans for large public EVs.
- Promoting public-private partnership (PPP) models to build charging networks.
- Making customs duty policies more scientific and removing taxes for public electric vehicles.
- Creating battery recycling systems and easing export rules for old batteries.
Currently, the Nepal Rastra Bank limits EV loans to 60 percent, but the committee argues that it should return to 80 percent to make EVs more affordable.
Step-by-step 10-year plan
The report outlines a 10-year timeline:
- Within 2 years: Ensure clear, stable EV policies.
- Within 5 years: Expand charging stations, promote EV buses and taxis, and start awareness programs.
- Within 10 years: Reach rural and tourism areas with EV access, establish recycling plants, and promote local production and technology transfer.
Charging stations every 20 vehicles
To balance vehicle numbers and charging availability, the committee proposes one charging station for every 20 vehicles, in line with international standards. It suggests creating refreshment centers with charging facilities along highways through PPP investments.
Each petrol station should have at least three EV charging points. Similarly, new commercial buildings should include charging setups in parking areas, and rural areas should get solar-powered stations.
Focus on battery and maintenance training
Nepal still lacks skilled technicians, repair centers, and affordable EV options. To fix this, the report recommends technical training centers, battery management standards, and local research in renewable energy.
Long-term goal: green economy
Experts believe if the recommendations are implemented, Nepal can cut fuel imports by up to 90 percent within a decade and increase domestic electricity use. Transportation currently contributes 24 percent of Nepal’s total carbon emissions, so a switch to EVs could bring both environmental and economic benefits.
The committee includes senior government officials from the transport and infrastructure ministries. They believe the plan could set Nepal on the path to a cleaner, greener, and self-reliant transport system.
