Deepal's S line-up is set to receive a new addition in Nepal with the introduction of its smallest model, the S03.

The vehicle is positioned for the compact e-SUV segment, and it is scheduled to arrive in Nepal within the first quarter of 2026 if timelines proceed as planned.

Following the acquisition of official distribution rights for Deepal, Changan's New Energy Vehicle subsidiary, MAW Vriddhi AutoCorp, has increased its presence within Nepal's EV market. The Deepal S series forms a significant part of the brand's portfolio, with models such as the S07 and S05 recording notable sales. The S07 has become one of Nepal's widely adopted electric SUVs.

The company has begun preparations to introduce another model to the Deepal S portfolio. The upcoming SUV, to be marketed as the S03 in Nepal, is a rebadged version of the Changan Nevo Q05 EV. This rebadging approach has been used previously, as demonstrated when the Changan Nevo E07 was introduced locally as the Deepal E07.

The S03 is expected to become Deepal's most affordable EV in Nepal upon launch. The S05 currently holds that position with a starting price of approximately NPR 5 million (US$ 34,775). The S03 is therefore anticipated to be priced below this level, making it accessible to a wider customer base.

The expected starting price of the S03 in Nepal is around NPR 4 million. It is likely that Deepal will offer the model in at least two variants, which may place the top variant at approximately NPR 4.5 million.

Final pricing has not been confirmed, as the import process is at an early stage and the official launch is scheduled for the first quarter of 2026. Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.

Several specifications of the S03 - based on the Changan Q05 - may be adjusted for the Nepali market. One anticipated change is the motor configuration, with a probable reduction to a 100 kW unit across all variants.

The original S03 is equipped with a 120 kW Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor delivering a maximum power of 163 PS and a maximum torque of 190 Nm. The Nepali-spec S03 will likely be limited to around 100 kW of motor output, producing approximately 138 PS. Torque output is expected to remain at 190 Nm.

It is available in two variants offering two LFP-based battery packs. Available information identifies these variants as Air and Max, although naming may vary in Nepal.

Specifications for the Nepali market have not yet been finalised, and the reported ranges are based on the CLTC testing cycle. WLTP-based figures will present a more representative range once confirmed.

There are reports indicating that the battery pack may support 3C charging, allowing it to accept power at up to three times its capacity during fast charging. This has not been officially verified. The S03 can reportedly charge from 30% to 80% in approximately 25 to 30 minutes using a 60 kW DC fast charger.

Additional details

A McPherson strut and torsion beam suspension layout manages the vehicle's ride and stability, reflecting a basic configuration typically tuned for comfort.

The dimensions are 4435 mm in length, 1855 mm in width, and 1600 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2735 mm. The S03 provides a ground clearance of 180 mm and a kerb weight between 1550 kg and 1620 kg, depending on the variant.

For storage, the vehicle includes a 60-litre frunk and a 410-litre boot. It has also been reported that the S03 contains a total of 29 storage compartments throughout the cabin, including the frunk and boot spaces.