Image: Proton official image
Nepal’s entry‑level EV market has gained a fresh rivalry in the Rs 30–35 lakh bracket, with the established BYD Atto 1 now facing the newly launched Proton e.MAS 5. Both are compact electric hatchbacks aimed at city and family buyers, but they take very different approaches to technology and equipment.
Prices and variants
According to recent announcements: - BYD Atto 1 Dynamic – Rs 29.75 lakh, 30.08 kWh battery, claimed 230 km range (WLTP/NEDC). - BYD Atto 1 Premium – around Rs 33 lakh, 38.88 kWh battery, claimed 300 km range.
- Proton e.MAS 5 Prime – Rs 32.99 lakh, 58 kW motor, 30.12 kWh CATL LFP battery, claimed 225 km WLTP range.
- Proton e.MAS 5 Premium – Rs 36.99 lakh (with an introductory Rs 34.99 lakh offer for first buyers), 85 kW motor, 40.16 kWh battery, claimed 325 km WLTP range.
On sticker price, Atto 1 undercuts the e.MAS 5 in both variants, but the Proton offers more power, features and space.
BYD Atto 1: compact, efficient and backed by Blade Battery
Key spec snapshot (Atto 1 Dynamic): 30.08 kWh battery, about 230 km claimed range, FWD hatchback, around 45 kW motor.
The Atto 1 focuses on being a simple, city‑friendly EV: - Uses BYD’s Blade Battery technology, known for safety and efficient packaging. - Two battery options: 30.08 kWh (shorter range) and 38.88 kWh (up to 300 km claimed). - Compact size makes it easier to drive and park in dense city areas. - Core features include voice control, OTA software updates, a touchscreen infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster. - BYD’s relatively strong sales and service presence in Nepal is a major plus for long‑term ownership.
However, the Atto 1 keeps the feature set basic: there is no 360‑degree camera and no extensive ADAS suite. It appeals more to buyers who want a straightforward EV with trusted battery tech and lower running costs.
Proton e.MAS 5: more space, rear‑wheel drive and tech‑heavy cabin
Key spec snapshot (e.MAS 5 Premium): 40.16 kWh battery, 325 km WLTP range, 85 kW RWD motor, DC fast charging up to around 71–80 kW.
The Proton e.MAS 5 positions itself as a more powerful and family‑oriented alternative: - Rear‑wheel‑drive (RWD) layout with multi‑link rear suspension, unusual in this class and aimed at better driving feel and stability. - Two powertrains: - Prime – 58 kW motor, 30.12 kWh battery, 225 km WLTP range. - Premium – 85 kW motor, 40.16 kWh battery, 325 km WLTP range. - Supports AC charging and DC fast charging up to about 71–80 kW, with a claimed 30% to 80% charge in around 21 minutes on a fast charger, according to the company. - Cabin is feature‑rich: 14.6‑inch infotainment screen, 8.8‑inch digital cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, premium leather seats, rear AC vents, rear USB ports, six speakers and Vehicle‑to‑Load (V2L) capability for powering external devices. - Safety technology includes six airbags, 360‑degree camera, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and a comprehensive ADAS package with AEB, ACC, FCW, BSD, LDW and RCTA.
Which one makes more sense?
- If you want an affordable, compact EV mainly for city use, lower upfront cost and proven battery tech, BYD Atto 1 (especially the Dynamic at Rs 29.75 lakh) is the more rational choice.
- If you can spend more for extra space, stronger performance and modern safety/comfort tech, the Proton e.MAS 5 Premium around Rs 34.99–36.99 lakh offers more power, longer WLTP‑rated range and a far richer feature list.
For Nepal’s EV buyers, the decision now largely comes down to price and simplicity (Atto 1) versus performance and features (e.MAS 5).
Current prices on Nepal AutoMart
- BYD Atto 1 EV price in Nepal: Rs 28.95 lakh – Rs 32.99 lakh ex-showroom, 2 variants
- Proton e.MAS 5 EV price in Nepal: Rs 32.49 lakh – Rs 37.49 lakh ex-showroom, 2 variants
Reported by the Nepal AutoMart news desk. Prices verified against Nepal AutoMart's own distributor-sourced data.
