Mexico’s emerging electric vehicle sector is gaining momentum as Puebla’s automotive Explore Partnership initiative with EV startup Olinia opens new opportunities for local manufacturers. Around 200 companies from Puebla’s automotive, plastics, metalworking, and auto-parts sectors have expressed interest in joining Olinia’s future domestic supply chain as the government-backed project advances toward commercial production.
The discussions are being coordinated through the Puebla chapter of the National Chamber of the Transformation Industry (CANACINTRA), which has initiated meetings with Olinia executives to understand better supplier requirements, production standards, and integration opportunities.
Olinia Targets 50,000 Electric Vehicles by 2029
Olinia, led by Director Roberto Capuano Tripp, is developing an affordable electric microvehicle platform designed specifically for urban mobility and commercial transportation services. The company is currently negotiating with more than 10 national and international business groups to establish a mixed-investment public-private partnership.
The project is seeking approximately MXN 200 million (US$11.4 million) in private investment to transition from prototype development to commercial manufacturing. Construction of a production facility in Puebla is expected to begin between August and September 2026.
Under its expansion roadmap, Olinia plans to manufacture between 7,000 and 10,000 vehicles in 2027 before scaling production to 50,000 units annually by 2029. Long-term capacity could eventually reach 100,000 vehicles per year.
Puebla’s Manufacturing Strength Supports Growth
Puebla’s automotive Explore Partnership effort benefits from the region’s decades-long automotive heritage, supported by global manufacturers such as Volkswagen and Audi. Local suppliers possess extensive experience in certified production processes, advanced auto parts manufacturing, plastics processing, and metalworking operations.
According to CANACINTRA Puebla President Carlos Sosa Spínola, discussions remain exploratory, and Olinia has not yet entered a formal procurement or supplier contracting phase. However, local industries are proactively positioning themselves for future opportunities.
Olinia Uno: Affordable Urban Electric Mobility
The flagship vehicle, known as the Olinia Uno, is designed for neighborhood transportation, last-mile delivery services, and public transit fleets. The microvehicle is expected to start at MXN 150,000 (approximately US$8,400), making it one of Mexico’s most affordable electric vehicles.
The vehicle features seating for six passengers, wheelchair accessibility, a top speed of 50 km/h, and a 14.7 kWh battery capable of delivering a range of up to 125 kilometers per charge.
As part of Puebla’s automotive Explore Partnership, Olinia plans to achieve 50% local content at launch and increase domestic sourcing to 75% by 2030. The company will initially import lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery cells while establishing a Mexican battery assembly facility to manufacture battery management systems and integrate battery packs locally.
To support adoption, approximately 2,000 charging stations are planned across Mexico City, the State of Mexico, and Puebla. Puebla’s Explore Partnership initiative could become a significant milestone in strengthening Mexico’s domestic EV manufacturing ecosystem while accelerating the country’s transition toward sustainable mobility.
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