Highlights

• BWD Auto Van imported 830 units in 2025, capturing 54.6% of the compact EV hatchback market.
• Tata Tiago EV recorded 395 units, translating to a 26% share.
• Laxmi eMobility and Go eMobility together delivered 161 units, 10.59% of the segment.
• Leap T‑03 and Daewoo added 74 and 60 units respectively, holding 5% and 4% shares.
• Wuling Winggo made no entry at all during the year.
• Total hatchback EV imports in 2025 reached 1,520 units.
• The market remains tightly contested, with three brands accounting for more than 80% of sales.
• Outlook: policy incentives and expanding charging infrastructure could push the segment beyond 2,000 units by 2026.

Which brands dominate the compact EV hatchback segment?

Kathmandu’s compact electric hatchback segment is a micro‑cosm of the wider Nepalese EV story. Five names surface repeatedly: BWD, Tata, Laxmi, Go, Leap, and Daewoo. The data shows a clear hierarchy. BWD’s Auto Van storms ahead, while Tata Tiago EV clings to second place. Smaller players scramble for the remaining slice.

The numbers matter because they reveal how quickly Nepal’s import‑driven market can shift when a single model lands in the right price bracket. BWD’s 830‑unit run represents more than half of all hatchback EVs that crossed the border in 2025. That concentration gives the brand disproportionate influence over dealer networks, service capability, and future consumer perception.

BWD’s Auto Van takes the lead

BWD introduced the Auto Van in September 2025 and pushed it through December, delivering 830 units. The rapid uptake reflects a combination of aggressive pricing, a modest 20 kW motor, and a 150 km range that aligns with most Nepali city commutes.

Dealers report that the model’s compact dimensions make it ideal for Kathmandu’s narrow lanes, while its low running cost appeals to ride‑hailing operators. The 54.6 % market share is a direct result of that niche fit.

This matters for anyone watching the EV rollout: a single model can dominate a segment when it hits the sweet spot of price, range, and practicality.

Tata Tiago EV holds steady second place

Tata’s Tiago EV arrived earlier in the year and logged 395 units. Its share of 26 % keeps the Indian giant firmly in the runner‑up slot. The Tiago EV offers a 30 kW motor and a 200 km WLTP‑tested range, slightly higher than BWD’s offering, but its price sits a notch above the Auto Van.

Sipurdi Trading, the official importer, notes that the Tiago’s brand cachet and service network give it an edge among first‑time EV buyers who value after‑sales support. The model’s consistent performance across the year shows that brand trust still matters, even in a price‑sensitive market.

Leap and Daewoo carve niche slices

Two smaller entrants squeezed into the market in 2025. Leap T‑03 arrived via Sangrila Motors, moving 74 units, while Daewoo’s hatchback, supplied by CG Motors, accounted for 60 units. Their combined 9 % share may look modest, but each holds a distinct appeal.

Leap’s ultra‑compact footprint targets delivery fleets operating in congested downtown zones. Daewoo, on the other hand, leans on a slightly larger battery pack that promises a 220 km range, attracting suburban commuters.

Both brands sit at the lower end of the market share spectrum, yet their presence adds depth to the segment and hints at a future where niche players can survive by serving specialized use‑cases.

What the numbers mean for Nepal’s EV future

The total of 1,520 hatchback EVs imported in 2025 is a modest figure compared with global markets, but the concentration of sales tells a story of rapid market maturation. With three brands commanding over 80 % of the segment, the competitive pressure will likely force price wars and accelerated feature upgrades.

Policy signals are equally important. The Nepali government’s recent tax rebate for vehicles under 2,000 kg and its commitment to install 200 new charging points by the end of 2026 create a fertile environment for growth. If those incentives hold, analysts project the hatchback EV market could cross the 2,000‑unit threshold within the next twelve months.

For consumers, the takeaway is simple: the compact EV hatchback market is now defined by clear leaders, but there is room for newcomers who can differentiate on range, price, or utility. The next wave of imports will likely see tighter margins, more local assembly, and a broader spread of charging infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does the BWD Auto Van cost in Nepal? A: BWD prices the Auto Van at NPR 1,250,000 for the base trim, positioning it as the most affordable compact EV in the market.

Q: When will the Tata Tiago EV be available nationwide? A: Tata’s network has already rolled out the Tiago EV to major dealerships in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Biratnagar, with full national coverage expected by Q3 2026.

Q: Does the Leap T‑03 support fast charging? A: Yes, the Leap T‑03 is equipped with a DC fast‑charging port capable of 80 % charge in 45 minutes.

Q: What range can I expect from the Daewoo hatchback? A: Daewoo advertises a WLTP‑tested range of 220 km on a single charge, suitable for most daily commutes.

Q: Are there any subsidies for buying a compact EV hatchback? A: The Nepali government offers a 10 % import duty reduction for electric vehicles under 2,000 kg, plus a rebate on registration fees.

Q: Which brand is likely to lead the segment in 2026? A: BWD’s strong foothold and aggressive pricing give it an edge, but Tata’s wider service network could keep the competition tight.