सार्वजनिक विद्युतीय बस किन्न ८० प्रतिशतसम्म कर्जाBanks Allowed to Finance Up to 80 Percent of Large Electric Public Vehicles

Kathmandu — Nepal Rastra Bank has raised the lending limit for large electric vehicles used in public transportation, allowing banks and financial institutions to finance up to 80 percent of the vehicle’s value.

The central bank introduced the provision through an amendment to the Unified Directives, 2082. The loan-to-value ratio for electric buses and other large passenger vehicles operated as public transport can now be maintained at a maximum of 80 percent.

Previously, banks were generally permitted to provide vehicle loans covering up to 60 percent of the purchase price. The revised arrangement gives public electric transport operators an additional 20 percentage points in financing.

Under the new provision, an operator buying an eligible electric bus may need to contribute only around 20 percent of the vehicle’s cost as a down payment. The remaining amount can be financed through a bank loan, subject to the lender’s credit assessment.

The higher limit will not apply to all electric vehicles. Loans for privately used electric vehicles and other personal vehicles will continue to be capped at 60 percent of their value.

The central bank has also allowed financing of up to 80 percent for the replacement of commercial and freight vehicles damaged at industrial and business establishments directly affected by the Gen Z movement.

The policy is expected to lower the initial investment required for electric buses, which are generally more expensive to purchase than conventional fuel-powered vehicles. Easier access to financing could encourage transport operators to gradually replace diesel and petrol vehicles with electric alternatives.

The measure could also support the government’s broader goals of reducing petroleum imports, increasing domestic electricity consumption and promoting cleaner public transportation.

However, the actual impact will depend on interest rates, loan repayment periods, charging infrastructure and the willingness of banks to finance transport businesses. A higher loan ratio may reduce the down payment burden, but it will also increase the borrower’s debt and monthly repayment obligations.

Overall, the policy provides targeted financial support to public transport operators rather than a general relaxation for all vehicle buyers. It signals the central bank’s intention to use credit policy to encourage investment in environmentally friendly transportation while also offering relief to businesses replacing damaged commercial vehicles.