BAIC, the Chinese automaker backed by the state and already visible in several international markets, is preparing to enter Nepal through Laxmi Group. The company is expected to bring in its BJ30 hybrid SUV first, according to the announcement.
What is coming
Laxmi Group, which already represents brands such as Hyundai and BMW in Nepal, is setting up the showroom and related infrastructure for the new brand. This adds another Chinese SUV option to a market that has recently seen stronger interest in both EVs and hybrids.
The BJ30 is described as a hybrid SUV meant for both city use and rough-road conditions. According to the announcement, it comes with a boxy shape and 215 mm ground clearance. That combination is aimed at buyers who want a vehicle that can handle uneven roads as well as daily urban driving.
In addition to BAIC, Laxmi e-Mobility, under Laxmi Group, is also introducing Jetour, a rising Chinese SUV brand known for combining rugged design with advanced hybrid technology. At the upcoming NAIMA Nepal Mobility Expo 2026, the company will showcase the Jetour T1 PHEV and T2 PHEV, two plug-in hybrid SUVs. These models aim to deliver the versatility of an SUV with the efficiency of electrification, positioned between conventional combustion-powered SUVs and fully electric vehicles.
Recent Developments
The BAIC BJ30 hybrid SUV has been spotted around Kathmandu, providing a first glimpse of the model before its public debut at the upcoming NAIMA Nepal Mobility Expo 2026. This sighting underscores the imminent entry of BAIC into Nepal’s passenger vehicle market through Laxmi Motorhub, under Laxmi Group. The BJ30 is positioned as a rugged lifestyle hybrid SUV, combining traditional off-road-inspired styling with modern hybrid technology, targeting buyers looking for a versatile SUV capable of handling everyday urban driving as well as weekend adventures.
Why it matters for Nepali buyers
Nepal’s passenger vehicle market has been expanding toward electrified products, and hybrid SUVs are increasingly being positioned as a middle ground for buyers who want better efficiency without fully moving to an EV. BAIC’s arrival could give buyers another choice in the compact and mid-size SUV segment.
Laxmi Group says BAIC’s global collaborations with well-known brands and its SUV-focused lineup should help the brand find a place in Nepal. That point comes from the company’s own announcement and has not yet been independently verified in the local market.
The introduction of Jetour will be part of Laxmi e-Mobility’s broader strategy to expand its portfolio with multiple powertrain technologies. Alongside Jetour, the company is also preparing to showcase the **Arcfox T1 electric crossover** and the BAIC BJ30 hybrid SUV, creating a lineup spanning electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and lifestyle-oriented SUVs.
What is not yet confirmed
- Price: not announced publicly yet. - Launch date: not confirmed, only that preparations are underway. - Full variant list and specifications: not disclosed for Nepal.
For Nepali buyers, the key update is simple. BAIC is on its way, and the BJ30 hybrid SUV is expected to be the first model to arrive, alongside Jetour's new offerings at the NAIMA Expo.
Frequently asked questions
What is the expected price of the BAIC BJ30 hybrid SUV in Nepal?
The price of the BAIC BJ30 hybrid SUV in Nepal has not been announced publicly yet.
Writes on vehicle pricing, taxation and the Nepali auto market from ongoing tracking of distributor price lists. Editorial policy.
