We’ve been in Nepal for 35 years—EVs are the next

In a candid conversation, Mahindra’s international operations head Sachin Arolkar discusses the company’s EV launch in Nepal, its strategy to challenge Chinese dominance, and why the brand sees a long-term future in the Himalayan market.

Electric vehicle (EV) imports have surged in Nepal, accounting for 73 percent of all four-wheeler passenger vehicle imports in the last fiscal year ending July 16. This growth rate is one of the highest globally. Tapping into this momentum, Indian auto manufacturer Mahindra is preparing to launch its new line of EVs and compact SUVs during the Nepal Mobility Show 2025, organised by the Nepal Automobiles Importers and Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) from Wednesday in Kathmandu. Nepal’s rapid shift towards electric mobility is not just an environmental or economic development—it’s also becoming a stage for geopolitical influence. As the country increasingly pivots to clean energy vehicles, India and China are vying for dominance in this growing sector. In recent years, Chinese EV brands such as BYD, MG, and Neta have surged ahead in the Nepali market, offering a mix of affordability, high-tech features, and swift deployment. Their growing footprint reflects China’s broader economic engagement in Nepal, from infrastructure to manufacturing, often supported by favourable financing.