Start with the numbers
Compare at a glance
Selected trims in the Rs 30–35 lakh band. The top eligible trim is shown first; expand details for other eligible variants. Labelled buzz exceptions are within Rs 2 lakh.
| At a glance | BYD Atto 1 | Proton e.MAS 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Ex-showroom price | Rs 34.8 lakh | Rs 32.84 lakh |
| Fuel | Electric | Electric |
| Selected variant | Premium | Prime |
Ex-showroom prices exclude registration, road tax and insurance. Specifications can vary by trim. See individual source-check dates ↓
Nepal’s entry‑level EV market has gained a fresh rivalry in the Rs 30–35 lakh bracket, with the established BYD Atto 1 now facing the newly launched Proton e.MAS 5. Both are compact electric hatchbacks aimed at city and family buyers, but they take very different approaches to technology and equipment.
Prices and variants
According to recent announcements:
- BYD Atto 1 Dynamic – Rs 29.75 lakh, 30.08 kWh battery, claimed 230 km range (WLTP/NEDC).
- BYD Atto 1 Premium – around Rs 33 lakh, 38.88 kWh battery, claimed 300 km range.
- Proton e.MAS 5 Prime – Rs 32.99 lakh, 58 kW motor, 30.12 kWh CATL LFP battery, claimed 225 km WLTP range.
- Proton e.MAS 5 Premium – Rs 36.99 lakh (with an introductory Rs 34.99 lakh offer for first buyers), 85 kW motor, 40.16 kWh battery, claimed 325 km WLTP range.
On sticker price, Atto 1 undercuts the e.MAS 5 in both variants, but the Proton offers more power, features and space.
BYD Atto 1: compact, efficient and backed by Blade Battery
Key spec snapshot (Atto 1 Dynamic): 30.08 kWh battery, about 230 km claimed range, FWD hatchback, around 45 kW motor.
The Atto 1 focuses on being a simple, city‑friendly EV:
- Uses BYD’s Blade Battery technology, known for safety and efficient packaging.
- Two battery options: 30.08 kWh (shorter range) and 38.88 kWh (up to 300 km claimed).
- Compact size makes it easier to drive and park in dense city areas.
- Core features include voice control, OTA software updates, a touchscreen infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster.
- BYD’s relatively strong sales and service presence in Nepal is a major plus for long‑term ownership.
However, the Atto 1 keeps the feature set basic: there is no 360‑degree camera and no extensive ADAS suite. It appeals more to buyers who want a straightforward EV with trusted battery tech and lower running costs.
Proton e.MAS 5: more space, rear‑wheel drive and tech‑heavy cabin
Key spec snapshot (e.MAS 5 Premium): 40.16 kWh battery, 325 km WLTP range, 85 kW RWD motor, DC fast charging up to around 71–80 kW.
The Proton e.MAS 5 positions itself as a more powerful and family‑oriented alternative:
- Rear‑wheel‑drive (RWD) layout with multi‑link rear suspension, unusual in this class and aimed at better driving feel and stability.
- Two powertrains:
- Prime – 58 kW motor, 30.12 kWh battery, 225 km WLTP range.
- Premium – 85 kW motor, 40.16 kWh battery, 325 km WLTP range.
- Supports AC charging and DC fast charging up to about 71–80 kW, with a claimed 30% to 80% charge in around 21 minutes on a fast charger, according to the company.
- Cabin is feature‑rich: 14.6‑inch infotainment screen, 8.8‑inch digital cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, premium leather seats, rear AC vents, rear USB ports, six speakers and Vehicle‑to‑Load (V2L) capability for powering external devices.
- Safety technology includes six airbags, 360‑degree camera, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and a comprehensive ADAS package with AEB, ACC, FCW, BSD, LDW and RCTA.
Which one makes more sense?
- If you want an affordable, compact EV mainly for city use, lower upfront cost and proven battery tech, BYD Atto 1 (especially the Dynamic at Rs 29.75 lakh) is the more rational choice.
- If you can spend more for extra space, stronger performance and modern safety/comfort tech, the Proton e.MAS 5 Premium around Rs 34.99–36.99 lakh offers more power, longer WLTP‑rated range and a far richer feature list.
For Nepal’s EV buyers, the decision now largely comes down to price and simplicity (Atto 1) versus performance and features (e.MAS 5).
Current prices on Nepal AutoMart
- BYD Atto 1 EV price in Nepal: Rs 28.95 lakh – Rs 32.99 lakh ex-showroom, 2 variants
- Proton e.MAS 5 EV price in Nepal: Rs 32.49 lakh – Rs 37.49 lakh ex-showroom, 2 variants
Explore full specifications, variants & ownership context
Compare the exact variants
Specifications, features & ownership context
Choose a variant for each vehicle. The facts below follow that exact trim; the article explains the trade-offs.
Latest catalog and directory records supplement the original analysis. Figures may have changed since publication; individual specification and price-check dates appear below.
BYD Atto 1
Rs 34.8 lakh ex-showroom · source checked 12 Oct 2026
Proton e.MAS 5
Rs 32.84 lakh ex-showroom · source checked 12 Oct 2026
Battery & charging
| Specification / feature | BYD Atto 1 | Proton e.MAS 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | 38.88 kWhResearched · confirm · 27 Aug 2026 | 30.12 kWhVerified specification · 17 Aug 2026 |
| Claimed range | 300 km (WLTP)Researched · confirm · 27 Aug 2026 | 225 km (WLTP)Verified specification · 17 Aug 2026 |
Dimensions & weight
| Specification / feature | BYD Atto 1 | Proton e.MAS 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Ground clearance | 175 mmResearched · confirm · 27 Sept 2026 | 175 mmResearched · confirm · 6 Sept 2026 |
Drivetrain & transmission
| Specification / feature | BYD Atto 1 | Proton e.MAS 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission | AutomaticResearched · confirm · 27 Aug 2026 | AutomaticResearched · confirm · 11 Sept 2026 |
Claimed range uses the stated test cycle. Different cycles are not a like-for-like range comparison; actual range depends on roads, load, speed and weather.
BYD Atto 1
Showroom & service support
Distributor: Cimex Inc. Pvt. Ltd.
69 listed brand showrooms · 44 listed brand service locations
Listed cities include Anamnagar, Banepa, Bhairahawa, Bhaktapur, Bharatpur, Biratnagar and 11 more.
Brand-wide directory coverage. Confirm that your nearest workshop supports this exact model, powertrain and warranty work; ask about parts availability and booking time.
Market buzz & buyer priorities
Compiled discussion, including buyer reactions and ownership reports; this is not a verified owner survey or a reliability score. Research dated 14 Oct 2026.
What people like
- Higher battery capacity provides peace of mind
- Highly competitive pricing for the entry-level EV segment in Nepal
Concerns to investigate
- Concerns about long-term service and reliability
- high price compared to international market
- parts and service costs are high
More feedback
- Power in motor could be better
Nepal ownership context
- Buyers frequently compare it against the Dongfeng Nammi 01 for size and ground clearance.
- Resale value remains a point of speculation due to the model's relatively recent entry into the Nepali market.
- Service centers are primarily concentrated in major urban hubs, causing concern for owners in remote districts.
More feedback
- Its compact dimensions and reported 175 mm ground clearance make it suitable for Kathmandu streets, parking and speed breakers.
- Nepali buyers compare ownership support with competing EVs because service reach, repair time and spare-parts availability matter outside the Valley.
Proton e.MAS 5
Showroom & service support
Distributor: Jagdamba Motors Pvt. Ltd.
61 listed brand showrooms · 17 listed brand service locations
Listed cities include Bhairahawa, Bhaktapur, Bharatpur, Biratnagar, Birgunj, Butwal and 7 more.
Brand-wide directory coverage. Confirm that your nearest workshop supports this exact model, powertrain and warranty work; ask about parts availability and booking time.
Market buzz & buyer priorities
Compiled discussion, including buyer reactions and ownership reports; this is not a verified owner survey or a reliability score. Research dated 13 Oct 2026.
What people like
- Excellent ride quality due to multi-link independent rear suspension
- High-tech interior featuring a large 14.6-inch infotainment display
- Practical storage solutions including a 70-litre frunk and under-seat space
Concerns to investigate
- compared to other models, lacks features
- Modest driving range on the Prime variant limits long-distance travel
- Lack of a dedicated Proton-run charging network in Nepal
More feedback
- Prime variant feels underpowered on steep hill climbs
- Halogen headlamps on the base Prime trim are considered outdated
- The biggest concern is Proton’s still-developing service and spare-parts support in Nepal.
- Buyers are uncertain about long-term resale value because the model is new to Nepal and has a smaller local owner base than established EV brands.
- The Prime variant has a shorter claimed range and fewer safety-convenience features than the Premium.
What buyers ask for
- Ground clearance for Nepali road conditions
- Availability of service centers and spare parts
Nepal ownership context
- Officially launched in July 2026 by Jagdamba Motors
- Ground clearance of 160–175 mm is generally considered adequate for city roads
- Backed by a 6-year unlimited-mileage vehicle warranty and 8-year battery cover
More feedback
- No free home wallbox charger is confirmed for the model
- The model is best suited to Kathmandu Valley commuting and regular urban driving, while the Premium variant is more suitable for occasional intercity trips because of its longer claimed range.
- Its 175 mm ground clearance is considered usable for typical Nepali roads, but the e.MAS 5 remains a compact hatchback-style EV rather than a high-clearance SUV for severe off-road conditions.
Use these facts alongside the article’s full analysis. Check the final quotation, warranty terms and exact equipment before booking.
Evidence & next steps
Check the details before you buy
Use this guide to build a shortlist. Ask for a written quotation for your chosen variant, including registration, taxes, insurance, finance charges and any charger installation. Confirm the nearest authorised workshop supports that model.
Price sources and dates
These are the recorded distributor-source checks for the selected overview trims. They are separate from the article update and catalog read dates; they do not mean every trim was rechecked today. Confirm the final price with the distributor.
Overview photos come from the corresponding model records; additional article photos carry their own credits. Running costs depend on usage, energy prices, maintenance, insurance and resale value.