KATHMANDU, April 19: The government has enforced a new set of standards for taxis, restricting registration to only those vehicles with engines of 1000cc or higher, effectively phasing out smaller-capacity vehicles currently dominant in the market.
Under the updated guidelines approved by the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, taxis must now meet a minimum engine capacity of 1000cc for fuel-powered vehicles and 40 kilowatts for electric vehicles (EVs). The Department of Transport Management (DoTM) has implemented the new policy from Thursday.
Currently, most taxis on Nepali roads are under 800cc, particularly compact models. The rise of EVs introduced a few luxury alternatives, but the latest criteria are expected to significantly alter the composition of taxis across the country.
The revised policy mandates new taxis to include features such as central locking, air conditioning, a digital fare meter with printer, high-speed alert systems, rear parking sensors, anti-lock braking system (ABS), and a GPS navigation system with an LED screen. These upgrades are anticipated to increase the cost of new taxis.
Taxi service now available from Bhojpur to Dharan
Only three-cylinder, four-stroke engine sedans will be eligible for registration as taxis.
Three-tier taxi classification introduced
For the first time, the government has categorized taxis into three classes — General, Special, and Premium. Fare structures will be based on these classifications, with premium taxis permitted to charge up to double the fare of general taxis, and special taxis allowed to charge 20% more than general rates.
Premium taxis must have an engine capacity of 2000cc or more, or a motor capacity of at least 100 kilowatts for EVs, with torque exceeding 170 Nm. These vehicles should also feature a wheelbase of at least 2700mm and a boot space of over 400 liters.
In terms of in-cabin features, premium taxis will require dual touch-screen displays for rear passengers, electric window controls, advanced AC systems with both hot and cold settings, headrests and armrests on seats, sound systems at both the front and rear, cup holders, reading lamps, DC/AC charging ports, Wi-Fi, and ample legroom and headroom.
Regulations for existing taxis, EV taxis
Existing taxi owners will have the option to reclassify their vehicles into the new tiers, subject to inspections and compliance with the prescribed specifications. A request must be submitted to the relevant transport office, which will verify and assign the appropriate class in the registration certificate.
All existing vehicles must comply with the new standards within six months. Non-compliance may result in cancellation of route permits and fitness certificates by the concerned authorities.
Electric taxis are also bound by new capacity thresholds: 40kW for general, 50kW for special, and 100kW for premium categories. These EVs must generate a minimum torque of 60Nm, 80Nm, and 170Nm respectively. Corresponding wheelbase requirements are 2300mm, 2400mm, and 2700mm, with luggage space capacities of 160, 200, and 400 liters.
Safety and identification measures
All taxis, regardless of classification, must display red "O", "D", and "L" stickers within a transparent plastic frame and be equipped with embossed number plates. The taxi roof must be painted yellow.
Safety features such as ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), dual front airbags, seat belt reminders, rear parking sensors, rear-view cameras, and CCTV systems are mandatory for special and premium taxis. Vehicles lacking these safety components cannot qualify for these categories.
Additionally, all taxis must be fitted with a digital fare meter that includes a printer and a GPS display system.
