Highlights

• iCar V23 officially launched by SPG Automobiles in Nepal
• Simultaneous rollout in eight major cities: Birtamod, Biratnagar, Birgunj, Butwal, Dang, Surkhet, Nepalganj and Dhankadhi
• 59.93 kW·h LFP battery paired with a 100kW motor
• Claimed 401 km (CLTC) range on a single charge
• Ground clearance 210mm, 13.2‑inch infotainment screen, Level 2 ADAS
• Price set at 49 lakh 99 thousand rupees
• Over 18 network touch points and more than 21 charging stations already in place
• First retro‑inspired full‑electric SUV targeting both city and off‑road use

Why the iCar V23 matters now

The Nepalese EV landscape has been waiting for a vehicle that can bridge city commuting and weekend adventure. iCar V23 steps into that gap, offering a blend of classic SUV silhouette and modern electric power. That matters because it proves an electric drivetrain can handle Nepal’s rugged terrain without compromise. The launch signals that manufacturers are finally confident enough to commit resources across the country, not just in Kathmandu.

Retro‑inspired design meets electric grit

The iCar V23 wears a nostalgic badge of honor: round headlights, a boxy silhouette and a bold ‘Buxi’ front grille that harks back to 80‑s off‑road icons. Yet underneath the retro skin sits a fully electric platform. The 210 mm ground clearance lets the SUV glide over potholes and gravel alike. Inside, a 13.2‑inch premium infotainment display dominates the dash, while level 2 advanced driver‑assist system keeps occupants safe on winding mountain roads. The juxtaposition of old‑school looks and cutting‑edge tech is deliberate – it tells a story of heritage meeting future.

Powertrain and range – the numbers

At the heart of the iCar V23 sits a 59.93 kW·h lithium‑iron‑phosphate battery. Paired with a 100kW electric motor, the SUV can sprint from 0‑100 km/h in roughly nine seconds, according to the manufacturer. The claimed 401 km CLTC range is generous for a vehicle of this size, especially when you consider Nepal’s mixed‑use roads. Real‑world range will likely settle a few percent lower, but even a 350 km practical figure would still outpace most conventional SUVs on a single charge.

Pricing, availability and the competitive picture

The price tag of 49 lakh 99 thousand rupees places the iCar V23 squarely in the premium‑mid segment. It undercuts imported electric SUVs that can breach the 60‑lakh mark, while still offering a level of equipment that rivals global rivals like the Hyundai Kona Electric and MG ZS EV. Pre‑orders are already being accepted at SPG’s showrooms, and deliveries are slated to begin within weeks for customers who booked during the launch week. The simultaneous launch in eight cities means buyers in the Terai, hills and mid‑west will all see the same rollout schedule – a first for an EV in Nepal.

What the launch says about Nepal’s EV future

SPG’s aggressive network build‑out – more than 18 touch points and 21 charging stations – is a clear signal that the infrastructure gap is closing. The company’s claim that green energy vehicles are now “within reach” aligns with the government’s push for 10 % EV adoption by 2030. If the iCar V23 can hit its sales targets, it will likely encourage other OEMs to accelerate their own launches, creating a virtuous cycle of demand and supply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What variants of the iCar V23 are available and how do they differ? A: Currently only a single trim is offered, featuring the 100 kW motor, 59.93 kW·h battery, 13.2‑inch infotainment screen and Level 2 ADAS. No lower‑powered variants have been announced.

Q: When will the iCar V23 be delivered to customers who pre‑ordered? A: SPG Automobiles has said deliveries will start within a few weeks of the launch, with the first batch allocated to buyers in the eight launch cities.

Q: How does the iCar V23’s range compare to the Hyundai Kona Electric? A: The Kona Electric is rated at about 415 km (WLTP). The iCar V23 claims 401 km (CLTC), so the numbers are broadly comparable, though testing cycles differ.

Q: Are there any government incentives that apply to the iCar V23 purchase? A: Nepal’s current EV policy offers reduced registration fees and exemption from certain road taxes. Buyers should confirm the latest incentives with their local SPG dealer.

Q: What charging options are supported by the iCar V23? A: The SUV is compatible with AC Level 2 chargers (up to 7 kW) and fast DC chargers (up to 50 kW). SPG’s network already includes both types across the eight cities.

Q: Does the iCar V23 come with a warranty? A: SPG Automobiles provides a three‑year/100,000 km warranty on the battery and a five‑year warranty on the vehicle body.