Cars have become an integral part of our lives, providing convenience and freedom of movement. Nepal, too, has been bitten by the automobile bug, and its love affair with cars has only grown stronger over the years. From the oldest cars to the rise of Toyota and the ever-increasing car prices, let's take a look at Nepal's fascinating automobile journey.
Oldest Car in Nepal:
The oldest car in Nepal is a 1924 Rolls Royce, owned by the then Prime Minister of Nepal, Chandra Shumsher. The car, which is now a prized possession of the National Museum of Nepal, is a symbol of the country's rich history and love for vintage automobiles.
Chandra Shumsher Jung Bahadur Rana was a prominent political figure in Nepal during the early 20th century. Born in 1863, he was the second son of Jang Bahadur Rana, the founder of the Rana dynasty that ruled Nepal for over a century.
Chandra Shumsher was known for his contributions to modernizing Nepal, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, healthcare, and education. During his time as the Prime Minister of Nepal from 1901 to 1929, he introduced several reforms, including the construction of roads, bridges, and hospitals, and the establishment of Nepal's first high school.
He was also a patron of the arts and literature, and under his leadership, Nepal saw a cultural renaissance with the revival of traditional music, dance, and theater.
Chandra Shumsher was a keen collector of vintage automobiles, and his collection included several Rolls Royces, which were considered a symbol of his status and wealth. His love for vintage cars was not just a hobby, but also a reflection of his passion for technology and innovation.
Today, Chandra Shumsher's legacy lives on through his contributions to Nepal's development and his passion for vintage automobiles, including the 1924 Rolls Royce, which remains a prized possession of the National Museum of Nepal.
Rise of Toyota in Nepal:
The 1980s marked the beginning of Toyota's dominance in Nepal's automobile industry. The Japanese carmaker introduced its range of cars, which were not only affordable but also reliable and fuel-efficient, making them a popular choice among Nepalese consumers.
Today, Toyota has become synonymous with cars in Nepal, and the brand's popularity is evident from the sheer number of Toyota cars on the country's roads. The brand's focus on innovation and technology has also helped it stay ahead of the competition.
Car Prices in Nepal/brands:
Despite its love for cars, Nepal is not a cheap place to own one. The country's high import taxes, customs duties, and other taxes make cars in Nepal considerably more expensive than in other countries.
As a result, car prices in Nepal are among the highest in the world, and Nepalese consumers often have to pay a premium for even basic models. However, this has not deterred the country's love for cars, and the demand for cars continues to grow.
In conclusion, Nepal's love affair with cars has come a long way, from owning the oldest car in the country to embracing Toyota's innovation and technology. However, the high car prices remain a challenge for Nepalese consumers. Despite this, the automobile industry in Nepal is poised for growth, and we can expect to see more exciting developments in the future.