Education Minister Mahabir Pun Says Government Working on Allowing EV Conversions
The Nepalese government is preparing to introduce a long-awaited policy shift in the country’s automobile and clean-energy sector.
According to Education Minister Mahabir Pun, the government is working on a system that will allow old petrol and diesel vehicles to be converted into battery-powered electric vehicles — a move many engineers and technicians have advocated for over the years.
In a recent Facebook post, Pun shared the news, highlighting the government’s plan to formally permit EV conversion projects. He expressed optimism that this initiative would open the door for a new phase of sustainable mobility in Nepal.
Pun noted that automotive innovators in Nepal had repeatedly attempted to remove engines from aging cars and vans to rebuild them as eco-friendly EVs. But despite their knowledge and willingness, bureaucratic hurdles — often fueled by unnecessary obstacles and vested interests — prevented anyone from receiving official permission for such conversions.
Now, Pun says the situation is changing. The Ministry of Transport is making arrangements to formally permit EV conversion projects, opening the door for a new phase of sustainable mobility.
If executed effectively, this initiative could provide a major boost to Nepal’s electric-vehicle ecosystem, reduce vehicle waste, and make EV adoption more accessible and affordable for many Nepalis.
