Foton Motors Nepal says it is planning a lineup of electric vehicles that will be market disruptors in the commercial segment. Nabin Acharya, Sales Head, Foton Motors Nepal, spoke exclusively with Nepal Drives about the company’s plans to grab a significant chunk of the commercial electric vehicles market. Furthermore, he also covers a wide range of topics on the Foton EV van including range, charging infrastructure, safety features, WVTA certification, and after-sales service and support.

Could you please tell us about the Foton EV Van and its features?

The Foton EV Van is a fully electric van that comes with a range of 235 km on a single charge, making it an ideal choice for commercial use. It has received WVTA certification, which guarantees its safety and quality. The van can accommodate up to 14 and 15 passengers, making it an ideal vehicle for group transportation.

That’s impressive. Can you please elaborate more on the benefits of owning the Foton EV van?

Certainly. Foton is committed to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation. The Foton EV Van is a step towards achieving that goal. Owning an electric van has many benefits, such as lower fuel costs, reduced maintenance, and a smaller carbon footprint. Additionally, electric vehicles are also more energy-efficient and produce less noise pollution, making them an ideal choice for environmentally conscious individuals or businesses.

How does the Foton EV Van compare to other electric vans on the market?

The Foton EV Van is an excellent choice for businesses or individuals who require a 15-seater vehicle with a long range. It is competitively priced and comes with a 3-year warranty. Its 235 km range on a single charge is one of the highest in its class, making it a reliable and practical option. Furthermore, the van is equipped with advanced safety features such as anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, rear parking sensors, a touch screen system with an inbuilt rear camera, central door lock and electric ORVMs.

Can you please elaborate on the charging infrastructure required for the Foton EV Van, and how long it takes to charge?

The Foton EV Van can be charged using a standard 220V outlet or a fast-charging station. It takes approximately 8 hours to fully charge using a standard outlet and around 2 hours using a fast-charging station. We also recommend that customers install a dedicated charging point to ensure that the van is charged efficiently and safely.

What is the WVTA certification and why is it significant for the Foton EV Van?

The Foton EV Van has received the prestigious European Whole Vehicle Type Approval (WVTA) certificate, which confirms that the van meets the standards of EU regulations and can be exported to EU and non-EU countries and regions that require WVTA certification. This is Foton’s first EU electric vehicle type approval certificate for vans and the only product in Nepal with this certification. The WVTA certification ensures the quality and safety of the vehicle and increases trust and reliability for customers.

To achieve the WVTA certificate, the Foton EV Van underwent over 30 items of testing, including EMC, electric safety specifications, NVH, lane departure warning, and advanced emergency braking. The van features a high-capacity, high-energy density power battery from CATL, the world’s largest battery company, and a PMSM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor) to meet technical requirements for acceleration, hill start capability, and braking energy recovery strategy. The complete vehicle underwent rigorous testing on the battery, motor, electric control system, and more than 800 static inspections. The Foton EV Van boasts a range fade rate of less than or equal to 35% at low temperatures and has strong adaptability to the environment, improving operational efficiency. The vehicle’s safety is guaranteed, with 100,000 km of endurance testing completed.

Lastly, what kind of after-sales service and support can customers expect from MAW Vridhi, the authorized dealer of Foton EV Van in Nepal?

At MAW Vridhi, we are committed to providing excellent after-sales service and support to all our customers. Our technicians are trained to handle any issues that may arise, and we offer a 24/7 roadside assistance service for added peace of mind. Additionally, we provide regular maintenance services and a range of genuine spare parts to ensure that your Foton EV Van stays in top condition. Our goal is to ensure that our customers have a smooth and hassle-free ownership experience.