486 EVs Imported in Two Months, Korala Border Emerging as New Gateway

In the first two months of the current fiscal year 2082/83 (July and August), Nepal imported 486 electric vehicles (cars, jeeps, and vans). According to the Department of Customs, the EV imports were worth NPR 1.27 billion, generating NPR 867 million in revenue.

Country-wise Import

The majority of EVs came from China, with 240 units, followed by India with 207 units. Similarly, 34 units were imported from Thailand, three from the United States, and two from South Korea, the department’s data shows.

Import by Battery Capacity

Most of the imported EVs fall under the 51–100 kilowatt capacity range, with 378 units. Likewise, 73 units with up to 50 kW capacity, 34 units with 101–200 kW, and one unit with 201–300 kW capacity were imported during the review period.

Border Disruptions & Alternative Route

The traditional northern entry points from China have been affected by floods and landslides. The Rasuwagadhi route was blocked after the Bhote Koshi flood on July 7 (Asar 23), while the Tatopani checkpoint also remains frequently disrupted. As a result, several vehicles ordered in July could not enter Nepal on time.

To address this, the government has fully opened the Korala border point in Mustang as an alternative route. In August alone, nearly 100 EVs entered Nepal via Korala. Importers have already announced plans to bring in an additional 1,000 EVs through this checkpoint. So far, BYD, Omoda & Jaecoo, and Leapmotor EVs have been imported from Korala.

Overall, Nepal’s EV demand continues to rise steadily, while the Korala border is fast emerging as a major new entry point for automobile imports.