Mexico’s president introduces the Olinia Uno, the nation’s first locally‑built electric car priced under $9,000 and arriving in 2027. Discover the details now!
On June 7, President Claudia Sheinbaum unveiled Mexico’s inaugural domestically‑designed electric vehicle – the Olinia Uno – marking a milestone for the country’s automotive industry.
Who built the Olinia Uno?
The car is a joint effort by the National Technological Institute of Mexico (TecNM), the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN), and research centres under the Ministry of Science, Humanities, Technology and Innovation (SECIHTI), with technical assistance from the Chinese Embassy.
Design and purpose
Targeted at younger, budget‑conscious drivers, the Olinia Uno is a compact six‑seat EV that can also accommodate a wheelchair. Its simple, city‑friendly shape makes it suitable for both urban streets and rural roads.
Key specifications
- Battery: 14.7 kWh LFP pack delivering up to 100 km (62 mi) on a single charge.
- Motor: 13 kW electric motor with a top speed of 50 km/h (31 mph).
- Charging: Standard three‑phase plug; 4 hours on 220 V, ~8 hours on 110 V household outlets.
- Interior: 7‑inch central infotainment screen, dual‑speaker stereo, Bluetooth 5.0.
Affordability
Priced at 150,000 pesos (about US$8,600), the Olinia Uno is positioned as the most affordable new‑car offering in Mexico. President Sheinbaum highlighted that buyers could save roughly 50,000 pesos (US$2,900) compared with a conventional gasoline model.
Operating costs are equally compelling: while a typical gasoline car costs about 2.40 pesos per kilometre and a motorcycle about 1 peso per kilometre, the Olinia Uno runs at just 0.49 pesos per kilometre.
Market outlook
The new model will enter a market increasingly dominated by low‑cost Chinese EVs such as the BYD Dolphin Mini, which are rapidly gaining traction in Mexico. Industry analysts, including Electrek, note that the Olinia Uno could also spark interest in other emerging markets looking for ultra‑affordable electric transportation.
Launch timeline
Production is slated to begin in June 2027, with the first deliveries expected later that year. The Olinia Uno aims to prove that a locally‑manufactured, low‑price electric car can compete on both price and practicality.