Ecuador is preparing for a presidential runoff on 13 April, facing economic uncertainty, an energy crisis, and a struggling automotive sector.
But where does electromobility stand in the candidates’ agendas?
Broadly speaking, Daniel Noboa, representing the Acción Democrática Nacional movement, makes little mention of electromobility in his campaign, whereas Luisa González, from Revolución Ciudadana, incorporates concrete proposals into her government plan.
Her agenda includes tax incentives, public transport electrification, and strategic partnerships with the private sector, in contrast to Noboa’s lack of clear eMobility policies.
Mobility Portal Latinoamérica analyses the proposals of both candidates ahead of the runoff election and their plans for Ecuador’s EV sector.
Noboa: No Concrete Plans for Sustainable Mobility
Incumbent president Daniel Noboa focuses his campaign on security, economic stability, and crime reduction.
Although his government has made progress in infrastructure and transport projects, electric mobility is not a priority in his agenda.
During the 19 January presidential debate, he defended his administration’s measures to address the energy crisis, including tax reforms affecting the electromobility sector. These initiatives include:
• Changes in the definition of electric vehicles and their tariff benefits.
• Extended deadlines for the electrification of commercial transport.
• A vehicle scrappage programme to renew the fleet.
However, charging infrastructure remains an unresolved issue.
While Noboa has expressed interest in attracting international private investment in wind and nuclear energy, he has not addressed the gap between charging station availability and EV adoption.
Additionally, his decision to increase tariffs by 27% on Mexican imports could directly impact electrified vehicles manufactured in Mexico.
Luisa González: Tax Incentives and a Structured Transition
At the other end of the electoral race, Luisa González proposes a clearer strategy for Ecuador’s transportation energy transition.
Her proposal revolves around the G.E.N.E.R.A. plan, which includes:
• Incorporating electric buses into public transport.
• Tax incentives for electric vehicles.
• Developing green hydrogen as a strategic resource.
• Promoting renewable energy through public-private partnerships.
Additionally, González aims to secure foreign credit from the United States, Europe, and China, while strengthening ties with major international energy firms such as Electricité de France, Power China, and Electricidad de México.
Ecuador’s Current Electromobility Landscape
While hybrid vehicle sales increased by 21.8%, reaching 12,726 units, pure electric vehicles declined by 2.5%, with only 1,778 units sold.
This reflects a market at a crossroads: hybrid growth signals progress in the energy transition, but stagnation in EV adoption raises concerns about Ecuador’s electromobility future.
In 2024, SUVs and hybrid cars dominated sales.
According to the Association of Automotive Companies of Ecuador (AEADE), hybrid SUVs grew by 81.6% compared to 2023, solidifying their position as Ecuadorian consumers’ top choice.
Among manufacturers, Suzuki led hybrid sales with 3,146 units, followed by Chery with 1,899.
Meanwhile, the electric vehicle market totalled 1,600 units sold in the first 11 months of the year, with Chinese automakers controlling over 57% of the segment.
BYD and Nissan emerged as market leaders, followed by Kia, Leapmotor, Dongfeng, Neta, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW.
