Nepal’s electric vehicle scene has long been dominated by compact city EVs and a growing range of crossovers. But for a country that’s equally mountainous and entrepreneurial, the need for electric utility vehicles is undeniable. Enter the Foton eTunland, the all-electric pickup that just made its official debut at the NADA Auto Show 2025, marking a new chapter for heavy-duty EVs in Nepal.
Foton is not new to the Nepali market. Its diesel-powered Tunland G7 had already cemented a reputation for power and durability. But with global shifts towards clean mobility, Foton has taken a confident leap by bringing the eTunland, a fully electric, feature-rich pickup that’s ready to tackle both city logistics and rural terrains.
In a market where pickups are expected to haul cargo through rugged hills and chaotic urban lanes alike, the eTunland positions itself as a serious player with both muscle and range. But is it just another converted diesel truck, or a purpose-built EV that’s up to the task?
Design
At first glance, the Foton eTunland carries the DNA of a classic pickup, muscular, tall, and purposeful. Its design remains grounded in utility rather than overly futuristic gimmicks. From the exterior lines to its 265/65 R17 wheels and 200 mm ground clearance (laden), the eTunland looks ready for the job.
The cargo bed measures 1520 mm x 1580 mm x 440 mm, which is practical for logistics companies, farmers, and contractors alike. Despite being electric, it hasn’t sacrificed the toughness that traditional pickup owners demand.
Inside the cabin, though, Foton surprises. The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system is large and modern, while the dashboard layout is clean and well-organized. The driver’s seat is 6-way electronically adjustable, offering long-distance comfort, something that’s especially valuable for cross-country cargo runs or long commutes between districts. The co-driver gets a 6-way manual seat, keeping the cost-performance balance intact.
Performance
Let’s talk numbers, because in this segment, torque and endurance matter more than sleek marketing.
The eTunland delivers 130 kW of power and 350 Nm of torque. That’s substantial, especially considering the instant torque delivery of EVs. It’s built on a 4x2 drivetrain, meaning it’s more suited for on-road and light off-road driving rather than extreme trails, although the torque should make uphill routes like Thankot, Nagarkot, or Dhulikhel manageable even with a full load.
The real hero here, however, is the 88 kWh CATL-supplied battery, a liquid-cooled lithium iron phosphate (LFP) unit known for safety and thermal stability. On a full charge, it claims a range of 430 km under the NEDC cycle, which translates to about 350–380 km under real-world Nepali driving conditions, still very respectable for a pickup.
Battery and Warranty
Battery anxiety still holds many potential buyers back from considering EVs, especially in a utility-focused segment like pickups. But Foton seems to understand that concern.
The battery is backed by an 8-year or 400,000 km warranty, which is on par with global standards. That gives peace of mind to logistics operators who often rack up miles quickly. Meanwhile, the electric motor comes with a 5-year or 200,000 km warranty, ensuring that the core propulsion system is well protected.
This long warranty coverage is a key differentiator in a market where many EV options still carry uncertain long-term reliability, especially when driven hard and often.
Features
While the eTunland is fundamentally a utility vehicle, it doesn't skip on comfort or safety.
Safety features include:
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Double airbags
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Four-wheel disc brakes
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Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
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Brake Assist
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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
These inclusions make it clear that Foton isn’t treating safety as an afterthought, something especially important in Nepal’s unpredictable terrain and traffic conditions.
Additionally, the reverse camera and large touchscreen elevate the day-to-day driving experience. It’s easy to forget this is a work pickup when you’re inside, and that’s a good thing.
Specifications at a Glance
While not exhaustive, here’s a compact look at the essentials:
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Drivetrain: 4x2 (Rear-Wheel Drive)
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Battery: 88 kWh LFP, Liquid-cooled
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Range: 430 km (NEDC)
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Motor Power: 130 kW
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Torque: 350 Nm
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Ground Clearance (Laden): 200 mm
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Tires: 265/65 R17
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Cargo Bed Size: 1520 mm x 1580 mm x 440 mm
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Infotainment: 12.3-inch touchscreen
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Seating: Driver (6-way electric), Co-driver (6-way manual)
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Warranty: Battery (8 years/400,000 km), Motor (5 years/200,000 km)
Pricing in Nepal
Foton has smartly timed its pricing for the NADA Auto Show 2025, launching the eTunland at a special introductory price of NPR 68,99,000, slightly down from the regular Rs. 69,99,000.
For context, this puts the eTunland in a competitive position when compared to traditional diesel pickups, especially considering the lower operating cost of EVs over time. When you factor in fuel savings, reduced maintenance, and upcoming government incentives for commercial EVs in Nepal, this pricing strategy could make the eTunland a serious contender even for fleet operators.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Niche EV
The Foton eTunland isn’t here to test the waters. It’s a clear statement, that electric pickups are not only viable in Nepal but could soon become mainstream. With respectable range, strong performance numbers, thoughtful safety features, and a price point that’s within reach for many commercial operators, it’s more than just an eco-conscious upgrade, it’s a practical one.
While 4x4 capability would’ve added more appeal for rural buyers, the current configuration still serves a large share of the market. The warranty terms, battery confidence, and overall design make it a compelling value proposition.
For those who’ve been waiting for an electric pickup that doesn’t feel like a compromise, the wait may be over.
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