Strong start in Kathmandu
The NAIMA Nepal Mobility Expo 2026 has concluded with a resounding success, drawing more than 180,000 visitors over its six-day run at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu, despite heavy rainfall. Organized by the Nepal Automobile Importers and Manufacturers Association (NAIMA), the expo ran from August 11 to 16. The event saw a strong turnout, with over 22,000 visitors on the third day alone, and a total of 29,000 visitors on the first day, followed by 26,000 on the second day.
Organizers reported the unveiling of 53 new vehicle models, spanning from scooters to premium cars. The expo attracted significant participation from both domestic and multinational vehicle manufacturers and importers, with 55 brands showcasing their latest innovations. New brands entering Nepal for the first time, along with new electric cars, e-scooters, and electric commercial vehicles, were major attractions, reflecting a strong consumer interest in environmental sustainability and modern technology.
NAIMA President Ritu Singh Vaidya highlighted the expo's success, noting the strong consumer interest and encouraging vehicle bookings, with more than 4,000 vehicles estimated to have been booked during the event.
Sessions and safety talks
The first day also featured a session on Investment and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Mobilizing–Fuel for Economic Growth, moderated by former banker Anil Keshari Shah. Learning sessions brought in more than 300 participants on Tuesday. Grande International Hospital presented Basic Life Support and Immediate Care After Road Traffic Accidents.
On the second day, a session titled ‘Mobility: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow’ featured discussions with notable figures such as Ashish Gajurel, Chairperson of the Infrastructure Development Committee, and SSP Suresh Prasad Kafle, Chief of Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office. This session also attracted over 300 participants, highlighting the growing interest in sustainable and innovative mobility solutions.
What buyers can see
The expo focused on sustainable, green, and technology-friendly transport. Banks, financial institutions, and insurance companies offered special deals and concessional financing options for vehicle buyers at the expo. Global IME Bank, the co-sponsor of the expo, along with banking partners Siddhartha Bank and NMB Bank, set up stalls at the exhibition venue to provide vehicle financing services and facilitate loan applications. They offered auto loans at rates ranging from 0.5 percent to 1 percent above their respective base rates, while the service charge was set at 0.5 percent.
Electric cars, e-scooters, and electric commercial vehicles were among the main draws. Visitors showed keen interest in features like battery capacity, motor specifications, range, and after-sales service, reflecting a shift towards informed and eco-conscious consumerism.
Visitors were seen booking vehicles of their choice at the expo. According to participating companies, both affordable and premium cars and motorcycles received strong interest. Participating brands reported a good number of bookings, further indicating the expo's success in engaging potential buyers. Additionally, distributors offered discounts, low-interest loans, one-year free insurance, free servicing, and vehicle tax benefits to entice customers.
Writes on vehicle pricing, taxation and the Nepali auto market from ongoing tracking of distributor price lists. Editorial policy.
