South Korean media: 76% of new cars in Nepal are electric vehicles, thanks to Chinese companies!

On September 6, the South Korean media "Today Digital" published an article stating that while people's attention is focused on the popularity of electric vehicles in the United States, Europe, and China, Nepal has quietly led the electric vehicle revolution.

Last year, 76% of new cars sold in Nepal were electric vehicles, far exceeding the global average of 20%. A recent article in The New York Times about Nepal's electric vehicle revolution pointed out that the popularity of electric vehicles in Nepal is the result of factors such as abundant hydropower resources, reasonable import tax policies, low-cost Chinese electric vehicles, and expanding charging infrastructure.

Nepal uses electricity from rivers flowing out of the Himalayas. Taking advantage of the fuel crisis with India in 2015, it further strengthened hydropower generation. The Nepalese government has reduced the import tax on electric vehicles to 40%, while imposing an 180% import tax on internal combustion engine vehicles. This makes electric SUVs cheaper than gasoline cars. In addition, with the rapid expansion of 62 public charging stations and hundreds of private charging stations, the cost of charging electric vehicles is 15 times cheaper than gasoline cars.

Nepal is also gradually moving towards electric public transportation and private electric vehicles. The bus operator Sajha Yatayat operates 41 electric buses. However, some people believe that at least 800 electric buses are needed to improve traffic conditions in the Kathmandu Valley.

Chinese electric vehicle companies dominate the Nepalese market and have made significant contributions. Companies like BYD are rapidly expanding their market share, allowing Nepalese consumers to buy cars similar to Tesla at half the price. However, political instability and lack of charging infrastructure remain challenges. Nepal has had three prime ministers in the past five years, and the electric vehicle tariff has been increased again. In addition, there is a lack of national planning for battery recycling or vehicle safety standards.

Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1842515700997465/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author.