KATHMANDU, May 28: In a landmark move set to reshape Nepal’s electric mobility landscape, India-based EV infrastructure pioneer GO EC Auto Tech Private Limited has entered into a strategic joint venture with the Mercantile Group, one of Nepal’s most respected business conglomerates. The partnership aims to establish a nationwide network of automated, round-the-clock EV charging stations—setting new standards for accessibility, reliability, and sustainability.
With a mission to support the global transition toward green mobility, the newly formed joint venture is committed to developing a professionally operated 24/7 charging station network. This network will be powered by cutting-edge automation, dedicated technical support, and transparent, standardized pricing. The initiative is expected to address a critical gap in Nepal’s EV ecosystem and accelerate electric vehicle adoption in both urban and rural areas.
“GO EC’s profile and expertise align well with the needs of the Nepalese market,” said P G Ramnath, CEO and Co-Founder of GO EC Auto Tech. “Together with the Mercantile Group, we’re bringing an infrastructure solution that is not only technologically advanced but also deeply rooted in local needs. Our joint venture will deliver a seamless, reliable, and transformative experience for EV users across Nepal.”
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Founded in 2021 and headquartered in Kochi, India, GO EC currently operates over 300 EV charging stations across India, with a bold expansion plan targeting 1,000 stations nationwide. Its Franchise-Owned, Company-Operated (FOCO) model has already empowered more than 100 entrepreneurs in India. This model is expected to be replicated in Nepal to foster local business and economic growth.
“Our success has come from solving problems region by region,” added Ramnath. “We have spent the past two years exploring expansion opportunities, and Nepal was a clear choice. Regulations were a challenge, but we persisted—and this collaboration with a trusted and visionary organization like the Mercantile Group has made our entry possible.”
Amod Rajbhandari, Chief Investment Officer of Mercantile Group, emphasized the joint venture’s long-term vision and sustainability. “Nepal has taken meaningful steps toward an electric future. While government policy and taxation play a role, we believe the EV sector will continue to grow. Our joint venture ensures that investments into EV infrastructure are profitable and sustainable, creating a win-win for all stakeholders,” he said.
Recognizing the challenges of grid stress and energy management, GO EC confirmed it is actively working with utilities and engineers to develop EV chargers tailored to Nepal’s unique energy landscape. Alongside plans to install DC fast chargers, the company also expressed interest in exploring renewable energy solutions—demonstrating its broader commitment to reducing carbon emissions and supporting clean energy ecosystems.
GO EC’s Chairman and Founder, A P Jafar, underlined the importance of balancing innovation with affordability in a price-sensitive market. “EVs are becoming more affordable than traditional combustion vehicles, and we believe our solutions can make life easier for the common person in Nepal. Beyond business, this is about the planet and future generations. We’re proud to join hands with Mercantile, a company with a 75-year legacy of innovation and trust in Nepal,” said Jafar.
Since its founding in 1951, the Mercantile Group of Companies has played a pioneering role in Information and Communications Technology (ICT), document solutions, and currency solutions in Nepal. With strategic investments across financial services, energy, infrastructure, and agroforestry, the group is well-positioned to leverage its legacy, networks, and resources to scale EV infrastructure nationwide.
This collaboration marks a major step in Nepal’s clean energy transition, offering hope for greater energy independence, environmental stewardship, and inclusive economic growth, the companies said in a statement.
GO EC Auto Ttech, founded in 2021 in Kochi, India, is a cutting-edge EV infrastructure company focused on building a reliable and fast-charging station network. With over 70 operational stations and 165 under construction, GO EC is leading the charge toward sustainable and long-distance electric mobility across India and beyond.
A leading business house in Nepal since 1951, the Mercantile Group has been a pioneer in ICT and has diversified into finance, energy, agroforestry, and infrastructure. The group continues to champion innovation while upholding strong corporate governance and sustainable business practices.