Olinia electric car generates high demand in Mexico before sales begin

Olinia, Mexico's federally backed electric vehicle project, is experiencing significant public interest even before its official market launch. The vehicle, whose name derives from the Nahuatl word for "movement," is a fully electric car developed collaboratively by the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN) and the National Technological Institute of Mexico (TecNM).

The project aims to offer versatile electric mobility solutions. It is designed in three distinct versions: one for personal use, intended as an alternative to motorcycles; a "neighborhood mobility" version to replace taxis and mototaxis for short trips; and a variant for last-mile deliveries, targeting urban logistics and commercial activities.

President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed the high demand, noting interest from both individual citizens and state governments. "Yes, there is a lot of demand. Not only from governments, but also from people who liked the vehicle," she stated.

Currently in the production phase, Olinia's next step involves establishing a mixed investment model. This will combine government funding with private sector participation, leveraging the expertise and infrastructure of automotive companies. The government intends to create a mechanism to select interested partners and implement regulatory adjustments to support the development of Olinia and similar small electric vehicles.

While an official release date has not yet been set, the project continues to advance. The government is seeking private sector partnerships to scale up production and distribution networks, aiming to boost electric mobility options in Mexico.

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Yes, there is a lot of demand. Not only from governments, but also from people who liked the vehicle.