Kathmandu, April 6 -- Escalating tensions in West Asia have begun reshaping Nepal's automobile market, pushing consumers towards electric vehicles (EVs) amid fears of fuel shortages and rising prices. With demand surging, dealers say they are in no mood to roll out discounts for the upcoming Nepali New Year, which begins next week.

The conflict involving Iran has severely disrupted oil exports through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, which carries about a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas. Attacks targeting Iranian oil infrastructure have rattled global energy markets, sending oil and gas prices higher and fuelling inflation concerns worldwide.

EV dealers say the impact is already visible in Nepal. Sales have s...