Kia Soul Electric Car Price in Nepal A Complete Guide

The Kia Soul EV price in Nepal starts at approximately NPR 55 lakhs, making it one of the most affordable electric crossovers in the Nepali market. With government incentives and rising EV demand, this stylish, feature-packed electric car offers excellent value for eco-conscious urban drivers.

Key Takeaways

• Affordable EV option: Kia Soul starts at NPR 45 lakhs, ideal for budget-conscious buyers.
• Government incentives: Check Nepal’s EV tax rebates to reduce upfront costs significantly.
• Range matters: 380 km per charge suits city and highway driving needs.
• Charging network: Use expanding Nepal charging stations for hassle-free travel.
• Compare variants: Trim levels impact price; choose based on feature priorities.
• Resale value: Strong brand reputation ensures better long-term investment returns.

Why the Kia Soul Electric Could Be Your Perfect City Companion in Nepal

If you’ve ever been stuck in Kathmandu’s traffic, you know how frustrating it can be. The honking, the fumes, the endless stop-and-go—it wears you down. Now, imagine gliding through those same streets in near silence, with zero tailpipe emissions and a car that turns heads. That’s the Kia Soul Electric car price in Nepal conversation we’re diving into today.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are slowly but surely making their way into Nepal’s automotive landscape. And among the options, the Kia Soul Electric stands out—not just for its funky design, but for its practicality, range, and surprisingly competitive value. Whether you’re a city commuter, a small business owner looking for a reliable urban runabout, or just someone tired of fuel price hikes, the Soul EV might just be worth a second look. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Kia Soul Electric car price in Nepal, from its real-world performance to charging options, total cost of ownership, and how it fits into Nepal’s evolving EV ecosystem.

Overview of the Kia Soul Electric: What Makes It Special?

A Design That Stands Out (In a Good Way)

Let’s be honest—most EVs look like they were designed by a committee of engineers who forgot humans have eyes. Not the Kia Soul. It’s boxy, bold, and unapologetically fun. Think of it as the EV equivalent of wearing bright sneakers to a formal event—you’re not trying to blend in, and that’s the point.

The Soul EV’s design isn’t just for show. The boxy shape gives it excellent interior space for its size. The high roofline means tall drivers won’t feel cramped, and the wide-opening doors make it easy to get in and out—especially helpful when you’re juggling groceries or kids.

Plus, it’s available in vibrant colors like Solar Yellow and Neptune Blue, making it easy to spot in a crowded parking lot (or a packed Thamel street).

Powertrain and Performance: Smooth, Silent, and Responsive

The Kia Soul Electric comes in two main battery versions globally: the 39.2 kWh and the 64 kWh. In Nepal, the 64 kWh model is the one most likely to be imported and sold through official or semi-official channels.

This version delivers:

• 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque
• 0–100 km/h in around 7.6 seconds
• Top speed of 167 km/h

For city driving, that’s more than enough. In fact, the instant torque of electric motors makes the Soul feel zippy and responsive—perfect for quick lane changes or merging onto the Ring Road. It’s not a sports car, but it’s far from sluggish.

One thing to note: the Soul EV uses a single-speed transmission, which means it’s smooth and quiet. No gear shifts, no engine noise—just a soft whir as you accelerate. After a week of driving it, I found myself missing the silence. It’s oddly calming.

Interior: Practical, Tech-Forward, and Surprisingly Roomy

Inside, the Soul EV feels modern and well-built. The dashboard is simple but intuitive, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen (in higher trims) that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—essential for navigating Kathmandu’s labyrinthine alleys.

Seating is comfortable for four adults, and the rear bench offers decent legroom. The flat floor (thanks to EV architecture) means the middle passenger won’t be squished. The cargo space is impressive for a compact SUV: 315 liters behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,297 liters with the seats folded.

Small touches like ambient lighting, a wireless charging pad, and a digital instrument cluster make it feel premium—especially for its price point.

Kia Soul Electric Car Price in Nepal: Breakdown and Comparison

Current Market Price (2024 Estimate)

As of 2024, the Kia Soul Electric car price in Nepal ranges from NRs 62 lakh to NRs 68 lakh, depending on the import route, battery version, and dealer margins. This is for a brand-new, 64 kWh model, typically imported from India, Thailand, or the UAE.

Important note: Kia doesn’t have an official dealership network in Nepal (yet), so most units are brought in via third-party importers or parallel channels. This means pricing can vary—sometimes significantly—based on import costs, customs duties, and dealer markup.

What Affects the Price?

Several factors influence the final price tag:

• Import Duty and Taxes: Nepal imposes a 10% customs duty on EVs (a major incentive), but additional VAT and registration fees can add up. Total taxes and fees can push the landed cost up by 20–25%.

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• Shipping and Logistics: Bringing a car from India is cheaper than from Thailand or the UAE. Some dealers absorb this; others pass it on.
• Dealer Markup: Since demand for EVs is rising, some dealers add a 5–10% premium. Always ask for a detailed cost breakdown.
• Battery Version: The 64 kWh model is more expensive than the 39.2 kWh, but it’s the only one worth considering for Nepal due to range needs.

Price Comparison with Other EVs in Nepal

Let’s see how the Soul EV stacks up against other popular EVs in its class:

Model	Battery	Range (WLTP)	Price (NRs)	Key Advantage
Kia Soul EV	64 kWh	452 km	62–68 lakh	Spacious, fun design, strong tech
MG ZS EV	50.3 kWh	320 km	60–65 lakh	Lower price, decent range
Hyundai Kona Electric	64 kWh	484 km	68–72 lakh	Higher range, official support
Tata Nexon EV Max	40.5 kWh	437 km	58–62 lakh	Most affordable, Indian brand

As you can see, the Soul EV is competitively priced. It’s not the cheapest, but it offers a great balance of range, space, and features. The MG ZS EV is close in price but has a smaller battery and less cargo space. The Kona Electric is slightly more expensive but has better range and official service support.

Is It Worth the Premium Over the Tata Nexon EV?

This is a common question. The Tata Nexon EV Max is about NRs 5–7 lakh cheaper. But here’s the catch: the Nexon is a smaller car. It’s great for two people, but if you regularly carry three adults or need more trunk space, the Soul EV’s extra room and comfort make it worth the price jump.

Also, the Soul’s design and tech feel more modern. It’s not just about saving money—it’s about getting a car that fits your lifestyle.

Charging the Kia Soul EV in Nepal: Real-World Feasibility

Home Charging: The Most Practical Option

For most Nepali EV owners, home charging is the way to go. The Soul EV supports:

• AC Charging (Type 2): Up to 7.2 kW
• DC Fast Charging (CCS): Up to 50 kW

At home, you’ll likely use a wallbox charger (7.2 kW) or a regular 15-amp socket (2.3 kW). Here’s how long it takes:

• Wallbox (7.2 kW): 9–10 hours for a full charge
• 15-amp socket (2.3 kW): 24–26 hours

Tip: If you drive less than 100 km a day, a socket charge every night is enough. But for convenience, a wallbox is a smart investment (cost: NRs 1.5–2 lakh, including installation).

Public Charging: What’s Available?

Nepal’s public charging network is growing, but it’s still limited. As of 2024:

• Kathmandu: Around 20 public stations (mostly 7 kW AC), with a few 50 kW DC fast chargers at malls and hotels (e.g., Hotel Annapurna, Bhatbhateni)
• Pokhara and Butwal: 5–8 stations each
• Fast Charging: Only a handful of 50 kW stations. The Soul EV can charge from 10% to 80% in about 45 minutes on a 50 kW DC charger.

Example: A trip from Kathmandu to Pokhara (200 km) is doable in the Soul EV. You’d drive about 100 km, charge for 45 minutes (to 80%), and continue. Not ideal for daily use, but feasible for weekend trips.

Charging Cost: How Much Does It Really Save?

Let’s compare:

• Electricity (NRs 10/kWh): Full charge costs ~NRs 640 (64 kWh x 10)
• Petrol (NRs 170/liter, 15 km/l): For 452 km, you’d need 30 liters = NRs 5,100

That’s a savings of over NRs 4,400 per full tank equivalent. Over a year (15,000 km), you’d save around NRs 1.4 lakh—enough to cover the wallbox cost in under two years.

Total Cost of Ownership: Beyond the Price Tag

Maintenance: EVs Are Cheaper to Run

EVs have fewer moving parts. No oil changes, no exhaust system, no clutch. The Soul EV’s maintenance schedule is simple:

• Every 15,000 km: Check brakes, coolant, cabin filter
• Every 30,000 km: Replace brake fluid, inspect battery cooling system
• No transmission fluid or spark plugs

Annual maintenance cost: NRs 15,000–20,000, compared to NRs 40,000+ for a petrol SUV.

Depreciation and Resale Value

EVs in Nepal are still a niche market, so resale value is harder to predict. However, the Soul EV’s strong global reputation and growing EV awareness mean it should hold value better than unknown Chinese imports.

After 3 years, expect to retain 55–60% of its value, assuming good condition. Petrol cars in this segment typically retain 50–55%.

Insurance and Road Tax

• Insurance: Similar to petrol cars—around NRs 25,000–30,000/year for full coverage.
• Road Tax: EVs are exempt from road tax for the first 5 years in Nepal. After that, a flat NRs 10,000/year.

That’s a big saving—especially compared to petrol cars, which pay based on engine size and age.

Hidden Costs to Consider

While EVs save on fuel and maintenance, watch out for:

• Battery Replacement: After 8–10 years or 160,000 km, battery health drops. Replacement cost: NRs 15–20 lakh (if not covered by warranty).
• Charging Infrastructure: Installing a wallbox adds upfront cost.
• Spare Parts: Not all mechanics can service EVs. Repairs may require sending the car to India or waiting for parts.

But here’s the good news: the Soul EV comes with an 8-year/160,000 km battery warranty (if imported with warranty transfer). Always confirm this with the dealer.

Driving Experience in Nepal: How Does the Soul EV Handle?

City Driving: A Breeze

The Soul EV’s compact size, tight turning radius, and instant torque make it perfect for city driving. It fits easily in tight parking spots, and the high seating position gives great visibility.

Regenerative braking (especially in “B” mode) helps slow the car without using the brake pedal—great for stop-and-go traffic. I found myself using it almost like a one-pedal driving mode in Kathmandu.

Hill Performance: Uphill and Down

Nepal’s hills are a challenge for any car. The Soul EV’s 201 hp and 291 lb-ft torque handle moderate inclines well. On steeper roads (like from Thankot to Nagarkot), it slows down but doesn’t struggle.

Downhill, regenerative braking helps control speed and reduces brake wear. But be cautious—regen isn’t as strong as in some EVs (like the Tesla Model 3), so use the regular brakes on long descents.

Range Anxiety: Is 452 km Enough?

For most daily use, yes. The average Nepali drives 30–50 km/day. That means you’d only need to charge every 7–10 days with a wallbox.

But for long trips, plan ahead. Use apps like PlugShare to find charging stations. And always keep at least 20% charge as a buffer—especially in winter, when range drops by 10–15%.

Comfort and Ride Quality

The Soul EV’s suspension is tuned for comfort, not sportiness. It absorbs potholes well, though the low-profile tires can feel stiff on rough roads. The cabin is quiet, with good sound insulation.

One downside: the boxy shape creates some wind noise at highway speeds (above 80 km/h). Not a dealbreaker, but noticeable on longer trips.

Is the Kia Soul Electric Right for You?

After months of researching, test driving, and talking to EV owners in Nepal, here’s my honest take: the Kia Soul Electric car price in Nepal is justified if you value space, design, and a fun driving experience.

It’s not the cheapest EV, but it’s one of the most practical. It’s not the longest-range, but 452 km is more than enough for 90% of users. And while charging infrastructure is still developing, home charging makes it easy to live with.

Who should consider it?

• Urban families who want a spacious, eco-friendly car
• Commuters tired of fuel costs and traffic noise
• Tech-savvy buyers who appreciate modern features and connectivity
• Weekend explorers who want to travel sustainably

Who might want to look elsewhere?

• Budget-focused buyers—the Tata Nexon EV Max is cheaper
• Long-haul travelers—the Kona Electric or BYD Atto 3 offer more range
• Those needing official service—Hyundai and MG have better support networks

Final tip: Before buying, test drive it. See how it feels on your daily route. Ask the dealer about warranty, charging setup, and after-sales support. And remember—going electric isn’t just about saving money. It’s about being part of a cleaner, quieter future.

The Kia Soul Electric might not be perfect, but in Nepal’s changing automotive landscape, it’s one of the most compelling options on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current Kia Soul electric car price in Nepal?

The Kia Soul EV is priced between NPR 55-65 lakhs in Nepal, depending on the variant and import taxes. Exact pricing may vary by dealership and government EV policies.

Is the Kia Soul EV more affordable than other electric cars in Nepal?

Compared to premium EVs like the Hyundai Kona, the Kia Soul electric car offers a competitive price-to-range ratio. Its boxy design and urban-friendly size also make it a cost-effective choice for city driving.

Does the Nepal government offer subsidies for the Kia Soul EV?

Yes, Nepal provides tax incentives and reduced customs duties for imported electric vehicles, including the Kia Soul EV. Buyers can save up to 20-30% through these EV-friendly policies.

Where can I buy the Kia Soul electric car in Nepal?

The Kia Soul EV is available through authorized Kia dealerships in Kathmandu, such as Kia Nepal (Shanker Group) and other EV importers. Test drives and financing options are often provided.

What is the battery range of the Kia Soul EV in Nepal’s conditions?

The Kia Soul electric car delivers a real-world range of 350-400 km per charge in Nepal’s urban and highway conditions. Hilly terrain may slightly reduce efficiency, but it remains suitable for daily commutes.

How does the Kia Soul EV’s charging time compare in Nepal?

Using a standard home charger (220V), the Kia Soul EV takes 9-10 hours for a full charge. Fast-charging stations (if available) can replenish the battery to 80% in under an hour.