In May 2023, Kathmandu-based startup Yatri Design Studio (Yatri) made history. Its Project One electric motorcycle became the locally manufactured vehicle to be officially registered in Nepal – a defining moment not only for the company, but for the country’s transportation and mobility industry.
“Yatri Design Studio was founded with the vision to transform mobility in Nepal,” said Sworup Adhikary, Yatri’s head of technology. “Our primary goal is not just to manufacture electric two-wheelers, but to revolutionize the country’s sustainable mobility landscape by creating an entire ecosystem of products and services.”
Yatri’s growing lineup of products is combined with data and connectivity services that inform users about charging station locations, optimal routes, riding patterns and more. The company’s first electric motorcycle, Project Zero, is a premium ‘café racer’ – a lightweight, vintage-style bike with a top speed of 140 kilometers per hour and a seven-inch screen with built-in 4G and navigation capabilities. Project One, meanwhile, is Yatri’s first commercial dual‑sport electric motorcycle, designed for everyday riding across Nepal’s varied terrain. Then there’s Yatri’s upcoming scooter – Project Two – which, unlike other e-scooters available – can scale the steep inclines on Nepal’s mountainous terrain without overheating, and at the same time presents a more budget-friendly option built for scalability and broader market coverage.
“Different users in Nepal have various needs,” Adhikary said. “If you want an urban commuter to take to the office and back, we have Project One. If you want a weekend trip, we might suggest Project Zero which offers upgraded features. We’re meeting diverse needs through a varied range of products.”
