China has undoubtedly emerged as the leader in the realm of eco-friendly mobility, setting the stage for a new era of electric vehicles. As the world’s foremost producer of electric cars, China’s influence in the electric vehicle sector is not confined within its borders; its EVs are making significant strides in international markets as well.

In the global landscape of electric vehicles, China stands as an undisputed giant. In the year 2022, an astonishing 6.7 million units, constituted a remarkable 64% of the total new energy vehicle (NEV) production worldwide, which included electric vehicles, hybrids, and vehicles running on alternative energy sources like hydrogen, Among the 7.65 million electric vehicles sold globally in the past year, China commanded a dominant share, with over 5 million units, meaning that nearly two-thirds of all-electric vehicles sold across the globe were embraced by the Chinese market.

The unwavering dedication of China to research and manufacturing has resulted in the overwhelming popularity of Chinese EVs among the general public in Nepal. In this context, let’s explore the Chinese EV models that have solidified their presence and dominance in the Nepalese EV segment.

BYD Atto 3

Ever since its debut in Nepal, the BYD Atto 3 electric SUV has enjoyed significant popularity among the crowd, establishing itself as one of the most successful and well-received new electric vehicles in the market. Its performance and features have made it a hot favorite amongst enthusiasts and non-enthusiasts alike.

The BYD Atto 3 is available in three variants (Superior, Performance and Advanced) and two battery pack options (49.92 kWh and 60.48 kWh). Equipped with the ultra-safe Blade Battery and the born EV platform (e-Platform 3.0), BYD Atto 3 features fast charging from 0% to 80% in 50 mins, and a range of 345 km/420km according to WLTP tests. The Atto 3 also features 7 airbags, a panoramic sunroof, a 12.8-inch (32.5cm) adaptive rotating screen, a 360-degree holographic transparent imaging system, an NFC card key, and a Vehicle to Load (VTOL) mobile power station, making this car an extremely competitive EV offering.

The Atto 3 also boasts features such as mobile phone wireless charging, a one-touch electric control tailgate, an 8-speaker DIRAC audio system, electric seat adjustment, voice control, LED headlamps, LED rear lights, multi-colour gradient ambient lighting that responds to music rhythm, PM 2.5 air filter, etc.

Price: Advanced variant – Rs 55.90 Lakh, Superior variant – Rs 65.88 Lakh and Performance variant – Rs 81.99 Lakh

BYD Dolphin

The BYD Dolphin has been generating significant buzz in the Nepalese market recently.

Equipped with a 44.9 kWh battery pack and a front-wheel-drive electric motor, the BYD Dolphin generates 70 kW of power and 180 Nm of torque. It provides an electric cruising range of 340 km (WLTP) and can accelerate from 0-100 kmph in just 10.9 seconds.

The BYD Dolphin marks the debut of BYD’s Ocean series adopting the “Ocean Aesthetics” design concept and is constructed on the advanced BYD e-Platform 3.0. One of its standout features is BYD’s groundbreaking Blade Battery technology, which comes as a standard feature in the Dolphin, offering drivers unparalleled safety levels and an extended single-charge range.

In terms of features, the BYD Dolphin EV boasts a flat-bottom multi-function steering wheel, a 5-inch full LCD instrument panel, and a 12.8-inch floating central control screen. Safety features are comprehensive and include 6 airbags, a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), ABS with EBD, an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Traction Control System (TCS), a 360-degree camera, and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features.

Price: Rs 39.80 Lakh

MG ZS EV

The MG ZS EV played a pivotal role in solidifying the position of Chinese electric vehicles in the Nepalese market. Its arrival marked a significant turning point and opened the doors for other Chinese manufacturers to establish a presence in Nepal. At present, MG Motors Nepal provides the ZS EV in two different variants – one with a 99 kW power output and the other offering an extended Long-Range option.

The MG ZS EV, equipped with a 99 kW electric motor, delivers peak power and a maximum torque of 280 Nm. Its 51 kWh battery capacity allows for a WLTP range of 320 km on a single charge. In contrast, the MG ZS EV long-range version features a larger 72.6 kWh battery, providing an extended range of 440 km (WLTP cycle). This long-range variant is powered by an electric motor delivering 115 kW of power and 280 Nm of torque.

The new ZS EV embraces MG’s distinctive global design elements and comes fully equipped with a range of features, including a panoramic sunroof, 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, all-LED lighting, and more. It also boasts a 10.1-inch infotainment system with DAB radio and Bluetooth connectivity, a 7-inch driver’s digital instrument cluster, wireless phone charging, keyless entry, a six-speaker 3D sound system, and six-way driver and four-way front passenger electrically adjustable leather power seats with heating, among others.

Price: Deluxe variant – Rs 52.99 Lakh, Long-Range variant – Rs 71.99 Lakh

MG4 EV

The MG4 EV, MG’s latest electric hatchback, distinguishes itself as the first in its lineup to utilize a purpose-built platform designed exclusively for electric vehicles.

Its design boasts a sharp and stylish appearance with elements of crossover design. While the exterior displays sleek lines and aesthetics, the interior takes on a more minimalist approach. The dashboard features clean, horizontal lines, and its key focus is on two floating screens for both infotainment and the instrument cluster. Notably, the center console stands out with a rotary dial and a wireless charging pad, adding an intriguing element to the interior. The MG4 EV is equipped with various features, including a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats, and an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), among others.

In the market, the MG4 EV offers two battery options: a 51kWh and a larger 64kWh battery. The 51kWh battery variant delivers 134 PS (99 kW), while the larger 64kWh battery variant produces 203 PS (150 kW). Both versions generate a torque output of 250Nm and feature a single-motor, rear-wheel drive configuration. The smaller battery provides a range of up to 350km, while the larger one extends the range to 452km according to the WLTP cycle. The MG4 EV can be charged using a 150kW DC charger.

Price: Comfort variant – Rs 41.49 Lakh, Luxury variant – Rs 58.99 Lakh

GWM ORA 03

The GWM Ora 03 is powered by a 47.7 kWh Lithium iron phosphate battery pack, providing it with the capability to deliver 99 kW of power and 210 Nm of torque. According to the NEDC standard, the Ora 03 offers an impressive range of 400 km.

The Ora 03 comes generously equipped with a wide array of features, including 18-inch alloy wheels, a spacious 10.25-inch infotainment system, a 360-degree camera, a sunroof, wireless charging, leatherette upholstery, electrically adjustable seats, automatic air conditioning, multiple driving modes, passive safety systems, and rear parking sensors, among other amenities.

In terms of design and lighting, the Ora 03 incorporates an active air intake system, smart LED headlamps with a cat-eye shape, LED tail light strips, rear fog lamps, and LED brake lamps. Developed on GWM’s smart modular E Lemon platform, the Ora 03 boasts dimensions of 1,825 mm in width, 4,235 mm in length, and 1,596 mm in height. Its wheelbase measures 2,650 mm, making it the longest in its class.

Despite its compact size, the all-electric Ora Good Cat excels in terms of safety, as it has received a five-star rating from ANCAP, mirroring the same result achieved by its counterpart, Euro NCAP.

Price: Rs 47.49 Lakh

NETA V

Neta V is the first model from Hozon Auto to become available in the Nepalese market. Hozon Auto is a rapidly expanding Chinese electric car brand. The vehicle’s exterior design prioritizes aerodynamic efficiency, while the interior combines simplicity with modernity, featuring a sizable 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

This subcompact electric crossover is equipped with a 38.5 kWh battery pack, delivering 70 kW of power and 160 Nm of torque. According to the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), the Neta V offers an impressive range of 380 km on a single full charge. Notably, the battery pack boasts an IP67 rating, ensuring waterproof and dust-resistant properties. Charging times vary, taking approximately 8 hours for a full charge through AC normal charging from 0-100%, and about 30 minutes for a DC Quick Charge from 30-80%.

When it comes to features, the Neta V offers a comprehensive list, including a HEPA N95 Grade Air Filter, a user-friendly Zero Button Dashboard, a 14.6-inch central control touchscreen system, automatic headlights, and a Vehicle-to-load (V2L) external discharge function, among various other amenities.

Price: Rs 38.99 Lakh

SERES 3

Making its official debut at the NADA Auto Show 2023, the Seres 3 is powered by a 52.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack combined with a 99 kW electric motor. It claims an impressive electric range of 405 kilometers on a full charge, as per the NEDC standard.

In terms of features, it is generously equipped with a 10.25-inch multimedia system, a 360-degree camera, wireless phone charging, three drive modes, electrically adjustable seats, automatic climate control, and a panoramic sunroof, among other amenities. Standard safety features encompass six airbags, lane-departure warning alarm, electric-brake force distribution, hill-descent control, hill ascend control, auto-hold, and more.

The Seres 3 measures 4385mm in length, 1850mm in width, and 1650mm in height, and features a wheelbase of 2655mm. A longer wheelbase typically translates to increased cabin space. Additionally, it rides on 18-inch wheels and includes a spare tire. Notably, the Seres 3 boasts a ground clearance of 190mm.

Price: Comfort variant – Rs 49.99 Lakh, Premium variant – Rs 52.99 Lakh