Nepal's electric vehicle (EV) market saw the introduction of two new models - one from China and another from India - in January. The launch of the Deepal E07 and Tata Curvv is expected to further intensify competition in Nepal’s rapidly expanding EV sector, thereby offering consumers with more options.

In 2024, Tata solidified its position as the country’s second-best-selling EV brand, delivering 2,750 units, while Deepal secured fifth place, selling with a total of 702 units sold of its S07 and L07 models.

Here we take a look at new models by these two brands.

Deepal E07

On January 2, 2025, Chinese automaker Changan introduced the Deepal E07 in the Nepali market. This marked the debut of the world’s first "Transformer SUV" in Nepal. This futuristic EV can switch between SUV and pickup truck modes at the push of a button.

Brought to Nepal by MAW Vriddhi AutoCorp, the official distributor for Changan in Nepal, the E07 has earned the nickname "Chinese Cybertruck” due to its bold and future designs, drawing comparisons to Tesla’s Cybertruck.

The Deepal E07 offers four driving modes: SUV, pickup, camping and RV (recreational vehicle). It is available in two variants. The Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) variant offers WLTP range of 566 km per charge, while the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) variant comes with WLTP range of 490 km per charge. Both variants are equipped with an 89.98 kWh ternary lithium battery. Slightly larger than a mid-size SUV, the E07 is available in white, black, gray and green color options. Pricing starts at Rs 9.99 million for the RWD version and goes up to Rs. 19.99 million for the AWD version.

Thanks to the success of its S07 and L07 models, Deepal has already sold over 700 units in Nepal. With more than 90 charging stations across the country, MAW Vriddhi is actively working to strengthen Nepal’s EV infrastructure.

Ramesh Danekhu, Marketing Head of Changan Nepal, shared that bookings are already underway, with both variants generating significant interest. He added that deliveries are expected to begin by the end of March. "Currently, only the RWD variant is available. The AWD version will be introduced at the time of delivery," Danekhu said.

He added that the Deepal E07 stands out as a unique addition to Nepal’s EV market. "We don’t see direct competitors for this car because it introduces a brand-new segment. There may be competition in pricing, but not in terms of utility," he claimed.

The E07 comes with a three-year warranty on the motor, a two-year battery warranty (or 120,000 km), and free servicing twice a year for three years.

Meanwhile, MAW Vriddhi is preparing for the launch of another Deepal model by mid-April.

Tata Curvv.ev: A Premium Electric SUV-Coupe

Sipradi Trading, the official distributor of Tata vehicles in Nepal, launched three new electric vehicles (EVs) on February 23: the Curvv.ev, Nexon K3.ev, and Tiago.ev. Among them, the Curvv.ev, priced at NPR 5,699,000, is Tata Motors' flagship electric SUV-coupe.

At the launch event, Rajan Babu Shrestha, CEO of Sipradi Trading, expressed confidence in the Curvv.ev’s market performance. He highlighted the vehicle’s design, safety features, sound system, premium interior, and advanced technology as key selling points.

"Tata has not just introduced a car; it has delivered a package of innovation to customers. Similarly, it has expanded its EV lineup with multiple offerings. The Curvv.ev excels in many ways," he said. "We have also developed the necessary ecosystem for EVs." Tata currently offers models such as the Tiago.ev, Tigor.ev, Punch.ev, Nexon.ev, and Curvv.ev, having sold over 200,000 electric vehicles in India. With more than 6,000 EVs sold in Nepal over the past four years, Tata has established a strong presence. The company operates charging stations in 45 districts, supporting the EV ecosystem.

The Curvv.ev boasts impressive specifications: it is a 4.3-meter-long SUV-coupe with a 2.5-meter wheelbase and 193mm ground clearance—ideal for Nepali roads. It features a 5.3-meter turning radius and front and rear disc brakes. The vehicle is available with 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels and comfortably seats five passengers.

In the Nepali market, it comes with a 55 kWh battery pack, with an estimated range of 400-425 km per charge. According to the company, the EV can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.6 seconds and includes multiple drive modes adaptable to Nepal’s diverse terrain. It also supports a 7.2 kW AC fast charger.

The vehicle has received a 5-star rating in the Bharat NCAP safety test and is equipped with advanced safety features, including Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

Key ADAS features include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, adaptive steering assist, lane-keep assist, autonomous emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, rear cross-traffic alert, lane change alert, a 360-degree camera, blind-spot view monitor, blind-spot detection, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, high beam assist, and door open alert. Additionally, it features an electric parking brake system with auto-hold, an SOS call function, front parking sensors, six airbags, hill-hold assist, and hill descent control.

Aviruchi Giri, Marketing Manager at Sipradi Trading, spoke to New Business Age about the Curvv.ev’s potential in Nepal’s rapidly growing EV market. “Tata had a gap in the premium SUV segment in Nepal. With the Curvv.ev, we are catering to the growing demand for SUV-centric electric vehicles. It appeals to customers looking for a stylish yet practical EV with advanced features and a coupe design. The Curvv.ev offers a larger, more feature-rich alternative for those seeking a premium experience.”

The vehicle has already garnered significant attention in India, where it has been praised for its distinctive design, enhanced battery capacity, extended driving range, and premium features. Giri believes that the Curvv.ev will generate similar interest in Nepal’s expanding EV market.

Speaking about customer and dealer responses to the Tata Curvv.ev, Giri said, “The Tata Curvv.ev was one of the most anticipated vehicles in Nepal, and we have received a strong response from both customers and dealers. Now, our focus is on ensuring timely deliveries.

(This report was originally published in  March 2025  issue of New Business Age Magazine.)