Dongfeng Nammi 01 vs BYD Atto 1: Every Variant Compared — Nepal 2026 Buyer's Guide
Key Takeaways
- BYD Atto 1 Dynamic is the most affordable option at Rs. 28.95 lakh with 6 airbags and full ADAS, while the Nammi 01 E1 at Rs. 30.24 lakh offers significantly more power (70 kW vs 45 kW), a 12.8-inch touchscreen, and 56 mm more ground clearance for just Rs. 1.29 lakh more
- At the identical price of Rs. 32.99 lakh, the BYD Atto 1 Premium delivers 300 km range and heated front seats, while the Nammi 01 E2 Dual Tone offers a more powerful motor and better ground clearance but only 237 km range
- The Nammi 01 E3 variants (Rs. 34.79–36.49 lakh) own the 317 km range bracket with no BYD competition, making them the top choice for Kathmandu-to-Pokhara trips without range anxiety
- Monthly charging costs are virtually identical for all variants at Rs. 2,250–2,350 per month for 1,200 km of driving — roughly one-sixth the cost of a comparable petrol vehicle
- The Nammi 01's 176 mm ground clearance is a critical real-world advantage over the Atto 1's 120 mm for Nepal's rough roads, potholes, and monsoon waterlogging
Dongfeng Nammi 01 vs BYD Atto 1: Every Variant Compared — Nepal 2026
Nepal's affordable EV segment has never been this competitive. Two Chinese heavyweights — Dongfeng's Nammi 01 and BYD's Atto 1 — are locked in a head-to-head battle for the hearts (and wallets) of Nepali buyers looking for their first electric car under Rs. 37 lakh. Between them, there are nine variants spanning a price range of Rs. 28.95 lakh to Rs. 36.49 lakh, and choosing between them is anything but simple.
The Nammi 01 arrives with a larger footprint, more powerful motor options, and a tech-loaded cabin featuring a 12.8-inch touchscreen and 540-degree panoramic camera. The Atto 1 counters with BYD's proven Blade Battery technology, a more compact urban-friendly body, and an entry price that undercuts every Nammi variant by over Rs. 1.29 lakh.
In this comprehensive comparison, we break down every single variant — spec by spec, rupee by rupee — so you can find the perfect match for your daily Kathmandu commute, your weekend Pokhara run, and everything in between. For a broader view of the market, check out our full EV comparison tool.
Complete Price Ladder — All 9 Variants
Here is every variant of both cars available in Nepal, sorted from most affordable to most expensive:
| # | Variant | Battery | WLTP Range | Motor | Price (Rs.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BYD Atto 1 Dynamic | 30.08 kWh | 230 km | 45 kW / 135 Nm | 28,95,000 |
| 2 | Dongfeng Nammi 01 E1 | 31.4 kWh | 237 km | 70 kW / 160 Nm | 30,24,000 |
| 3 | Dongfeng Nammi 01 E2 Single Tone | 31.4 kWh | 237 km | 70 kW / 160 Nm | 32,49,000 |
| 4 | BYD Atto 1 Premium | 38.88 kWh | 300 km | 45 kW / 135 Nm | 32,99,000 |
| 5 | Dongfeng Nammi 01 E2 Dual Tone | 31.4 kWh | 237 km | 70 kW / 160 Nm | 32,99,000 |
| 6 | Dongfeng Nammi 01 E3 Single Tone 50kW | 42.3 kWh | 317 km | 50 kW / 160 Nm | 34,79,000 |
| 7 | Dongfeng Nammi 01 E3 Dual Tone 50kW | 42.3 kWh | 317 km | 50 kW / 160 Nm | 35,29,000 |
| 8 | Dongfeng Nammi 01 E3 Single Tone | 42.3 kWh | 317 km | 70 kW / 160 Nm | 35,99,000 |
| 9 | Dongfeng Nammi 01 E3 Dual Tone | 42.3 kWh | 317 km | 70 kW / 160 Nm | 36,49,000 |
The price spread from the cheapest (Atto 1 Dynamic) to the most expensive (Nammi 01 E3 Dual Tone) is Rs. 7,54,000 — nearly enough for a second electric scooter. That spread gives buyers meaningful choices at almost every budget point between Rs. 29 and 37 lakh.
Head-to-Head Matchups by Price Bracket
Under Rs. 30 Lakh: The Budget Entry Point
BYD Atto 1 Dynamic (Rs. 28,95,000) stands alone here as the most affordable option. At under Rs. 29 lakh, it is the cheapest way to get into a four-wheeled EV with V2L capability, 6 airbags, and a full L2 ADAS suite including AEB, ACC, and Lane Keeping Assist in Nepal.
The trade-offs? A smaller 30.08 kWh battery delivering 230 km WLTP range, and a modest 45 kW motor. The ground clearance of 120 mm is also a concern for Nepal's roads during monsoon season. But if your priority is simply getting into an EV at the lowest possible price, nothing else competes.
Rs. 30–33 Lakh: The Battleground
This is where the real fight happens. Four variants collide in this bracket:
Dongfeng Nammi 01 E1 (Rs. 30,24,000) is the base Nammi and the most affordable Dongfeng option. Despite being the entry variant, it packs serious technology: a 12.8-inch central touchscreen, AI voice control with dual-zone wake-up, Pet Mode, a 540-degree panoramic camera, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Integrated Cruise Assist (ICA), and AEB. The 70 kW motor is significantly more powerful than the Atto 1's 45 kW unit, and the 176 mm ground clearance gives it a massive 56 mm advantage over the BYD for tackling Nepal's uneven roads.
Dongfeng Nammi 01 E2 Single Tone (Rs. 32,49,000) adds premium touches over the E1 including wireless mobile charging, hidden door handles, and electrically adjustable wing mirrors. It also gains tubeless tyres and Parking Distance Control alongside the 360-degree panoramic camera.
BYD Atto 1 Premium (Rs. 32,99,000) jumps to a 38.88 kWh battery, boosting range to an impressive 300 km WLTP. It adds a 360-degree camera and heated front seats over the Dynamic variant. At this price, the Atto 1 Premium offers 63 km more WLTP range than the identically-priced Nammi E2 Dual Tone — a significant advantage for anyone who regularly drives longer distances.
Dongfeng Nammi 01 E2 Dual Tone (Rs. 32,99,000) matches the Atto 1 Premium's price rupee-for-rupee. The dual-tone paint option adds visual flair, but the core specs remain the same as the E2 Single Tone: 31.4 kWh battery, 237 km range. At this identical price point, the choice comes down to whether you value the Nammi's larger cabin, more powerful motor, and higher ground clearance — or the Atto 1 Premium's significantly longer range and heated front seats.
Rs. 34–37 Lakh: The Nammi 01 E3 Territory
Above Rs. 33 lakh, BYD has no competing variant, and the Nammi 01 E3 family owns this bracket with four variants.
The E3 lineup steps up to a 42.3 kWh battery delivering 317 km WLTP range — the longest range on offer from either car. The key decision within the E3 range is the motor choice:
-
E3 50kW variants (Rs. 34,79,000 – Rs. 35,29,000): These use a smaller 50 kW motor that saves you Rs. 1,20,000 compared to the 70 kW versions. For predominantly city driving where you rarely need full power, this is a smart way to get maximum range at a lower price.
-
E3 70kW variants (Rs. 35,99,000 – Rs. 36,49,000): The full-power E3 with the 70 kW motor is the flagship Nammi 01. If you regularly tackle Nagdhunga, Naubise, or Simaltal climbs and want both maximum range and maximum power, this is the one to pick.
Across all E3 variants, single tone saves Rs. 50,000 over the dual-tone paint option.
Range & Battery Deep Dive
Battery Technology
Both cars use Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry — the Nammi 01 explicitly lists LFP, and BYD's Atto 1 uses their renowned Blade Battery, also LFP-based. This is excellent news for Nepal's climate: LFP batteries are inherently safer, tolerate heat better, and have longer cycle life compared to NMC alternatives. Neither car will suffer significant degradation in Kathmandu's summer temperatures.
WLTP vs Real-World Range in Nepal
WLTP ratings are tested under controlled European conditions — flat roads, moderate temperatures, no Naubise-style altitude climbs. In Nepal's real-world conditions, expect 15–20% less range due to:
- Steep gradients on virtually every highway route
- Altitude variations (Kathmandu sits at 1,400m; routes frequently climb higher)
- Stop-and-go traffic in the Valley, especially through Kalanki and Thankot
- Air conditioning use during summer months
| Variant | WLTP Range | Est. Real-World Range (Nepal) |
|---|---|---|
| BYD Atto 1 Dynamic | 230 km | 184–196 km |
| Nammi 01 E1 / E2 variants | 237 km | 190–201 km |
| BYD Atto 1 Premium | 300 km | 240–255 km |
| Nammi 01 E3 variants | 317 km | 254–270 km |
For daily commuting within the Kathmandu Valley — where most trips are under 40 km — even the smallest battery variants offer 4–5 days of driving between charges. The bigger-battery E3 and Atto 1 Premium stretch that to nearly a week.
Energy Efficiency
The BYD Atto 1 is marginally more energy-efficient, consuming approximately 13.0–13.1 kWh per 100 km (WLTP) compared to the Nammi 01's 13.2–13.3 kWh per 100 km. The Atto 1's lighter weight (it is a smaller car) and lower-powered motor contribute to this slight advantage. However, the difference is negligible in practice.
Charging Comparison
Fast Charging (DC)
| Vehicle | Fast Charge Time |
|---|---|
| BYD Atto 1 Dynamic | 10–80% in 30 min |
| BYD Atto 1 Premium | 10–80% in 30 min |
| Nammi 01 E1 | 30–80% in 30 min |
| Nammi 01 E2 Single Tone | 60 min (full) |
| Nammi 01 E2 Dual Tone | 30–80% in 30 min |
| Nammi 01 E3 variants | 30–80% in 30 min (E3 Single Tone 70kW: 60 min full) |
Both cars support rapid DC charging, making them viable for highway use at Nepal's growing EV charging station network. The Atto 1 has a slight edge here — its fast charge window starts from 10% versus the Nammi's 30%, meaning you get a larger usable charge in the same 30-minute window.
Home Charging (AC)
| Vehicle | Home Charge Time (0–100%) |
|---|---|
| BYD Atto 1 Dynamic | 3.5 hours |
| BYD Atto 1 Premium | 5 hours |
| Nammi 01 E1 | 7 hours |
| Nammi 01 E2 Single Tone | 8.5 hours |
| Nammi 01 E3 Single Tone | 8.5 hours |
The BYD Atto 1 has a clear advantage in AC charging speed. The Dynamic variant's 3.5-hour full charge is remarkable — plug in when you get home from work, and it is fully charged before dinner is over. The Nammi 01's 7–8.5 hour charge time means overnight charging is the practical approach.
Monthly Charging Costs
Using NEA's domestic electricity rate of approximately Rs. 12 per kWh and assuming 1,200 km of monthly driving under real-world Nepal conditions:
| Vehicle | Est. Monthly kWh | Monthly Charging Cost |
|---|---|---|
| BYD Atto 1 Dynamic | ~190 kWh | ~Rs. 2,280 |
| BYD Atto 1 Premium | ~189 kWh | ~Rs. 2,268 |
| Nammi 01 E1 / E2 | ~193 kWh | ~Rs. 2,316 |
| Nammi 01 E3 | ~195 kWh | ~Rs. 2,340 |
The running costs are virtually identical — all four battery configurations cost between Rs. 2,250 and Rs. 2,350 per month. Compare this to a petrol hatchback averaging 15 km/L at current fuel prices (~Rs. 181/L): that same 1,200 km would cost approximately Rs. 14,480 in petrol — over six times more expensive than either EV. Annual savings exceed Rs. 1.4 lakh, which starts to close the gap on the purchase price difference versus cheaper petrol alternatives.
Trip Feasibility: Kathmandu to Pokhara
The Kathmandu–Pokhara route via the Prithvi Highway is approximately 200 km and remains the benchmark test for any EV sold in Nepal. The route features significant elevation changes — dropping from Kathmandu (1,400m) through Naubise, down to Mugling (~300m), then back up to Pokhara (~800m). Heavy traffic through the Naubise section and unpredictable road conditions add to battery drain. Use our EV Trip Planner for detailed route analysis.
Can Each Variant Make It?
| Variant | Real-World Range | One-Way Feasible? | Round Trip? |
|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Atto 1 Dynamic | 184–196 km | Risky — likely needs a charging stop at Mugling | No |
| Nammi 01 E1 / E2 | 190–201 km | Tight — possible with conservative driving, but a Mugling stop is recommended | No |
| BYD Atto 1 Premium | 240–255 km | Yes, with comfortable margin | No — needs charging in Pokhara |
| Nammi 01 E3 (all) | 254–270 km | Yes, comfortably | No — needs charging in Pokhara |
Verdict on the Pokhara Run:
The Nammi 01 E3 variants offer the most confident Kathmandu-to-Pokhara experience with up to 70 km of buffer. The Atto 1 Premium is also comfortable with a 40–55 km margin. The smaller-battery variants (Atto 1 Dynamic, Nammi E1/E2) can technically make it, but we strongly recommend planning a fast-charge stop at Mugling — attempting the full run on a 190 km real-world range with a 200 km route leaves dangerously little margin, especially if you encounter unexpected traffic or diversions through Naubise.
For round trips, neither car can manage Kathmandu–Pokhara–Kathmandu (400 km) without charging. Plan for a fast-charge session in Pokhara before returning. Check EV charging stations along the route before you depart.
Features Face-Off: Complete Comparison
| Feature | Dongfeng Nammi 01 | BYD Atto 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Touchscreen | 12.8-inch central display | 10.1-inch rotating display |
| Infotainment Memory | 8 GB | Not specified |
| AI Voice Control | Yes, with dual-zone wake-up | No |
| Pet Mode | Yes | No |
| Camera System | 540-degree panoramic camera | 360-degree camera (Premium only) |
| NFC Digital Key | No | Yes |
| Airbags | Yes (count varies by variant) | 6 airbags (all variants) |
| ABS + EBD | Yes | Yes |
| ESP / TCS | Not specified | Yes (ESP + TCS) |
| TPMS | Not specified | Yes |
| ISOFIX | Not specified | Yes |
| AEB | Yes | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
| Lane Keeping Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | Not specified | Yes |
| Forward Collision Warning | Not specified | Yes |
| Integrated Cruise Assist (ICA) | Yes (E1) | No |
| L2 ADAS | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes (E2/E3) | Yes (Hill Hold Control) |
| AutoHold | Yes (E2/E3) | Yes (Electric Parking Brake) |
| V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) | Yes | Yes |
| Regenerative Braking | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Phone Charging | Yes (E2/E3) | Not specified |
| Hidden Door Handles | Yes (E2/E3) | No |
| Heated Front Seats | No | Yes (Premium only) |
| Keyless Entry | Yes | Not specified |
| Electrically Adjustable Mirrors | Yes (E2/E3) | Not specified |
| Tubeless Tyres | Yes (E2/E3) | Not specified |
| Parking Sensors | Rear (E1) / Parking Distance Control (E2/E3) | Rear (Dynamic) |
| Ground Clearance | 176 mm | 120 mm |
| Top Speed | 140 km/h | 130 km/h |
| 0–100 km/h | 8.5 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Colour Options | Green, Purple | White, Green, Blue, Black |
Analysis
The Nammi 01 wins on technology and presence. The 12.8-inch touchscreen dwarfs the Atto 1's 10.1-inch unit. AI voice control with dual-zone wake-up is a genuine convenience feature for Nepal's congested roads where you want to keep your hands on the wheel. The 540-degree panoramic camera provides superior all-around visibility — particularly valuable in Kathmandu's tight lanes and chaotic parking situations. Pet Mode is a thoughtful addition for the growing number of pet owners in the Valley.
The BYD Atto 1 wins on safety transparency and clever features. Six airbags are confirmed across both variants. ESP, TCS, TPMS, and ISOFIX are explicitly listed — giving family buyers peace of mind. The NFC digital key is a modern convenience the Nammi lacks, and the Premium variant's heated front seats are a genuine comfort during Kathmandu's cold winter mornings. The Atto 1 also has a faster 0–100 km/h time of 7.9 seconds versus 8.5, despite having a less powerful motor — a benefit of its lighter, more compact body.
The Nammi 01's 176 mm ground clearance versus the Atto 1's 120 mm is perhaps the single most important real-world differentiator for Nepal. That 56 mm gap means the Nammi handles speed bumps, potholes, unpaved roads, and monsoon waterlogging significantly better. For anyone driving outside the Ring Road regularly, this advantage alone could be decisive.
Our Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
Best for Budget Buyers: BYD Atto 1 Dynamic (Rs. 28,95,000)
If your budget is firm under Rs. 30 lakh, the Atto 1 Dynamic is your only option — and it is a genuinely good one. Six airbags, full ADAS, V2L, and 230 km WLTP range make it a complete package for daily urban commuting. The low ground clearance is a concern, but if you primarily drive on paved city roads, it is manageable.
Best Value for Money: Dongfeng Nammi 01 E1 (Rs. 30,24,000)
Just Rs. 1,29,000 more than the Atto 1 Dynamic, the Nammi 01 E1 delivers a substantially more powerful 70 kW motor, a massive 12.8-inch touchscreen, AI voice control, 540-degree camera, and 56 mm more ground clearance. The range difference is marginal (237 vs 230 km), but the feature gap is enormous. This is our pick for best overall value in this comparison.
Best for Range Seekers: Dongfeng Nammi 01 E3 Single Tone 50kW (Rs. 34,79,000)
If you need maximum range and regularly drive to Pokhara, Chitwan, or beyond, the Nammi 01 E3 Single Tone 50kW offers 317 km WLTP with the larger 42.3 kWh battery at the lowest E3 price point. The 50 kW motor is adequate for most driving scenarios. If you need the extra power for hill climbs, step up to the E3 Single Tone 70kW for Rs. 1,20,000 more.
Best Range at a Lower Price: BYD Atto 1 Premium (Rs. 32,99,000)
The Atto 1 Premium offers 300 km WLTP range for Rs. 1,80,000 less than the cheapest Nammi E3 variant. If maximum range at the lowest possible price is your priority — and you can live with the lower ground clearance — this is the smart pick. The heated front seats are a bonus for winter mornings.
Best for City Commuters: BYD Atto 1 Dynamic or Nammi 01 E1
For pure urban use within the Kathmandu Valley, either base variant is more than sufficient. The Atto 1 Dynamic is cheaper; the Nammi E1 is better equipped. Both will easily handle a week of city commuting on a single charge.
Best for Nepal's Roads: Dongfeng Nammi 01 (Any Variant)
The 176 mm ground clearance makes every Nammi 01 variant better suited to Nepal's real-world road conditions than any Atto 1 variant. If you frequently drive on rough roads, through construction zones, or in areas prone to waterlogging, the Nammi's higher stance is a significant practical advantage.
Exploring pre-owned options? Check our used EV marketplace for deals on both models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is bigger — the Nammi 01 or Atto 1?
The Nammi 01 is noticeably larger at 4,030 mm long and 1,810 mm wide versus the Atto 1's 3,780 mm length and 1,715 mm width. The Nammi also has a longer wheelbase (2,660 mm vs 2,500 mm), translating to more rear legroom. If cabin space is a priority, the Nammi 01 wins.
Do either of these cars have a sunroof?
No. Neither the Dongfeng Nammi 01 nor the BYD Atto 1 offers a sunroof in any variant available in Nepal.
Can I drive Kathmandu to Pokhara without charging?
With the Nammi 01 E3 variants (317 km WLTP) or the Atto 1 Premium (300 km WLTP), yes — both can comfortably complete the approximately 200 km one-way trip. The smaller-battery variants should plan for a fast-charge stop at Mugling. Use our EV Trip Planner to map your route and locate charging stations.
How much does it cost to charge per month?
Assuming 1,200 km of monthly driving and NEA domestic rates of ~Rs. 12/kWh, expect to spend approximately Rs. 2,250–2,350 per month for either car. That is roughly one-sixth the cost of running a comparable petrol vehicle.
Which car is faster?
The BYD Atto 1 reaches 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds — slightly quicker than the Nammi 01's 8.5 seconds — despite having a less powerful motor (45 kW vs 70 kW). This is due to the Atto 1's lighter weight and more compact dimensions. However, the Nammi 01 has a higher top speed of 140 km/h versus 130 km/h, and the 70 kW motor delivers stronger performance on hill climbs where sustained torque matters more than outright acceleration.
Which has better after-sales support in Nepal?
BYD has a more established global presence and has been in the Nepal market longer, which generally translates to wider parts availability and service network familiarity. Dongfeng is newer to the Nepal market but is rapidly expanding its service infrastructure. We recommend confirming service center locations and warranty terms with authorized dealers before purchase.
Do both cars support V2L?
Yes. Every variant of both the Dongfeng Nammi 01 and BYD Atto 1 supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) power output, allowing you to power external devices — a practical feature during Nepal's occasional load-shedding situations or for outdoor activities.
Prices are ex-showroom Nepal and subject to change. Range figures are WLTP-rated; real-world performance varies with driving conditions, terrain, and climate. Always confirm current pricing and availability with authorized dealers. For the latest EV news, comparisons, and charging station updates, visit evnewsnepal.com. Compare these and other models using our EV comparison tool.