KAIYI still leads a shrinking segment
Mini EVs are steadily losing ground in Nepal as more buyers move to hatchbacks and small SUVs, even though these are still the cheapest way to get into electric mobility. In the last fiscal year, mini electric cars made up *less than 2%* of the country’s total EV imports, a clear sign that demand in this niche has slowed.
Nepal imported more than 12,700 electric cars in FY 2025/26, but only 234 units were mini EVs. Around a dozen brands were active in this segment. KAIYI still came out on top.
KAIYI’s market share
The brand imported 120 units of the e-Qute 02 and e-Qute 04 combined, giving it 51.28% of all mini EV imports. That is lower than the previous fiscal year, when KAIYI brought in 152 units, but it still held first place.
Other brands were well behind. MG Comet imported 39 units, Jinpeng LingBox 32 units, and Henry Volts 30 units. Smaller numbers also came from Mahindra e2o, BAW Brumby, Wuling and a few other brands.
Why KAIYI is holding on
KAIYI’s position is helped by competitive pricing, more cabin space than many mini EVs, and a claimed driving range of up to 300 km. Local distribution and after-sales support also give it an edge with first-time EV buyers.
The two models sold in Nepal are the e-Qute 02 and e-Qute 04, both powered by a 40 kW motor.
- e-Qute 02: 20.8 kWh battery, Rs 22.96 lakh, 3,345 mm length, 2,150 mm wheelbase, claimed range up to 300 km.
- e-Qute 04: 28.08 kWh battery, Rs 25.96 lakh, 3,720 mm length, 2,520 mm wheelbase, claimed range up to 300 km.
Deliveries in this price band sit squarely in the lower end of Nepal’s EV market.
Features and safety
The e-Qute 02 comes with LED headlamps, flush door handles, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a 7-inch digital cluster, a 360-degree camera, push-button start, AC and a four-speaker audio system.
The e-Qute 04 adds a 6.7-inch touchscreen, a 6.7-inch driver display, a steering column-mounted gear selector, six speakers, and Sport and Eco modes.
Safety equipment on both models includes dual airbags. The e-Qute 04 goes further with TPMS, ABS, EBD, ESP, traction control, downhill control, front and rear parking sensors and a six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat.
Current prices on Nepal AutoMart
- MG Comet EV price in Nepal: Rs 18.75 lakh – Rs 22.74 lakh ex-showroom, 4 variants
Writes on vehicle pricing, taxation and the Nepali auto market from ongoing tracking of distributor price lists. Editorial policy.
