Last Updated on March 7, 2025 by Automobile Hive
Nepal’s Two-Wheeler Market in 2024: A Boom in Imports and Brand Competition
In 2024, Nepal’s two-wheeler market has experienced a remarkable surge in imports, with an 80% increase compared to the previous year. While around 88,000 units were imported in 2023, this year’s numbers have skyrocketed, signaling a strong resurgence in demand for motorcycles and scooters across the country.
Petrol vs. Electric: A Divided Market
Nepal’s Two-Wheeler Market Overview (2023 vs. 2024)
| Category | 2023 | 2024 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Two-Wheeler Imports | 88,000 units | ~150,000 units | +80% |
| Electric Two-Wheeler Imports | N/A | 5,000 units | N/A |
Despite the overall growth in two-wheeler imports, electric vehicles (EVs) have struggled to gain traction. While petrol-powered two-wheelers have seen a sharp rise in popularity, only about 5,000 electric two-wheelers were imported in 2024. This slow growth underscores the challenges Nepal faces in transitioning to electric mobility, including infrastructure gaps and limited consumer awareness.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Nepal imported over 200,000 two-wheelers annually. However, the pandemic caused a steep decline, with annual imports dropping to around 75,000 units. The market is now rebounding, with imports exceeding 150,000 units in 2024, and experts predict further growth in the coming years.
Top Brands Dominating the Market
With more than 50 brands competing in Nepal’s two-wheeler market, a few key players continue to dominate sales and imports.
Top Two-Wheeler Brands in Nepal (2024)
| Rank | Brand | Total Units Imported | Scooters | Motorcycles | Distributor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Honda | 44,402 | 31,132 | 13,270 | Syakar Trading |
| 2 | TVS | 30,828 | 19,134 | 11,694 | Jagdamba Motors |
| 3 | Bajaj | 25,774 | N/A | 25,774* | Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. |
| 4 | Yamaha | 23,649 | 13,638 | 10,011 | N/A |
| 5 | Hero | 15,174 | N/A | 15,174 | N/A |
| 6 | Royal Enfield | 9,399 | 0 | 9,399 | N/A |
| 7 | Vespa-Aprilia | 1,797 | 1,797 | 0 | N/A |
| 8 | KTM | 1,650 | 0 | 1,650 | N/A |
| 9 | Suzuki | 505 | N/A | 505 | N/A |
| 10 | CF Moto & Others | 435 | N/A | 435 | N/A |
Note: Bajaj’s figures include imports of Triumph motorcycles.
1. Honda: The Unrivaled Leader
Honda remains the undisputed leader in Nepal’s two-wheeler market. Syakar Trading, Honda’s official distributor, imported 44,402 units in 2024, with 31,132 of those being scooters. This highlights the growing preference for automatic scooters among Nepali consumers. Honda alone accounts for 29% of the country’s total two-wheeler imports.
2. TVS: A Strong Second
TVS has secured the second spot in the market, thanks to its robust presence in both the motorcycle and scooter segments. Jagdamba Motors, the authorized distributor of TVS, imported 30,828 units, including 19,134 scooters. The brand’s competitive pricing and diverse offerings have helped it maintain a strong foothold in the market.
3. Bajaj: Facing Challenges
Once a dominant player in the motorcycle segment, Bajaj has slipped to third place. The rising popularity of scooters has posed challenges for the brand, which imported 25,774 units in 2024. This figure includes imports of Triumph motorcycles, which Bajaj recently introduced to the Nepali market. Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. is the authorized importer for Bajaj.
4. Yamaha: A Balanced Performer
Yamaha holds the fourth position, importing 23,649 units in 2024. This includes 13,638 scooters and 10,011 motorcycles, reflecting the brand’s ability to cater to both segments of the market.
5. Hero: A Comeback Story
After resuming operations in Nepal, Hero has made a strong comeback, ranking fifth with 15,174 units imported in 2024. The brand’s re-entry has been well-received, and it is steadily regaining its market share.
Other Notable Players
- Royal Enfield: Imported 9,399 motorcycles, primarily targeting the premium segment with its 350cc+ models.
- Vespa-Aprilia: Brought in 1,797 units, appealing to buyers of premium scooters.
- KTM: Imported 1,650 units, attracting adventure and sports bike enthusiasts.
- Suzuki: Recorded 505 units, maintaining a modest presence in the market.
- CF Moto and Others: Collectively imported 435 units, catering to niche segments.
Market Share of Top Two-Wheeler Brands in Nepal (2024)
| Brand | Market Share |
|---|---|
| Honda | 29% |
| TVS | 20% |
| Bajaj | 17% |
| Yamaha | 16% |
| Hero | 10% |
| Others | 8% |
The Road Ahead for Nepal’s Two-Wheeler Industry
Nepal’s two-wheeler market is on a steady growth path, driven by increasing demand and rising imports. While petrol-powered scooters and motorcycles continue to dominate, the slow adoption of electric vehicles highlights the need for better infrastructure, government incentives, and consumer education.
As urbanization accelerates and road networks improve, the demand for two-wheelers is expected to grow further. Brands that can adapt to changing consumer preferences—offering fuel-efficient, affordable, and eco-friendly options—will likely lead the market in the years to come.
The future of Nepal’s two-wheeler industry will depend on how well it responds to evolving consumer needs, government policies, and advancements in vehicle technology. As the market continues to expand, it will be fascinating to see how these dynamics shape the industry’s trajectory.
