Olinia Uno
Mexico has long been a manufacturing hub for the global automotive industry, hosting production facilities for many of the world’s largest carmakers. Yet despite this, the country has produced almost no domestic automotive brands of its own.
The new Olinia Uno is set to change that, becoming the first model from Mexico’s inaugural electric vehicle brand and carrying the ambition of reshaping the nation’s mobility landscape.
The Uno is a compact six-seater, both designed and built in Mexico with support from the federal government. Rather than competing with traditional consumer EVs, it targets a different segment entirely, positioning itself as a practical replacement for the motorcycles and three-wheeled mototaxis that dominate many urban streets.
Instead of focusing on long-distance travel, the Uno is optimized for last-mile transportation and urban taxi use. It runs on a small 14.7 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery powering a single electric motor that produces just 17 hp (13 kW). Performance is modest, with a top speed limited to 31 mph (50 km/h), even under full throttle.
Affordability is central to its appeal. The Uno starts at 150,000 pesos, or just under $8,600. Olinia estimates that operating costs will be significantly lower than existing options: while a conventional internal combustion taxi sedan can cost up to 2.4 pesos ($0.14) per kilometer and a motorcycle taxi up to 1.18 pesos ($0.07), the Uno is expected to cost only 0.50 pesos ($0.03) per kilometer.
Charging is straightforward, taking around four hours from a standard 220-volt household outlet—making overnight charging practical. Its range is limited to 62 miles (100 km).
According to Olinia, the Uno is ideal for short group trips with frequent stops, accommodating passengers with luggage, children, and older adults. The vehicle features multiple grab handles inside and out, and its coach-style rear doors allow it to accommodate a wheelchair user without requiring modifications.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum drove a prototype of the Uno onto the stage during its world premiere at the Santa Lucia military base. While its design may not be particularly emotional or striking, it appears purpose-built and well-suited to its intended role.
