Mexico is a major player in the global automotive industry, second only to the US in the Western Hemisphere. While international brands like VW and Nissan dominate production, a growing number of Mexican Car Brands are making their mark. These companies offer a diverse range of vehicles, from efficient electric cars to high-performance sports cars. This article explores some of the most notable Mexican car brands making waves in the industry.
Prominent Mexican Car Brands
Vühl
Vühl, based in Querétaro, is a Mexican start-up known for its ambitious road-legal track car, the Vühl 05. This low-slung, lightweight sports car features an aluminum tub chassis and a powerful Ford Ecoboost engine, making it a formidable competitor on the track and a head-turner on the road. Its appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed solidified its reputation as a performance machine.
Grey Zacua Electric Car
Zacua
Zacua is tackling urban pollution and congestion with its electric vehicles. The Zacua MX2 and MX3, compact electric cars designed for city driving, offer a nimble and eco-friendly transportation solution. Developed in partnership with French microcar maker Automobiles Chatenet, Zacua boasts a competitive range for its electric vehicles.
Mastretta
Mastretta, after experimenting with minibuses and kit cars, shifted its focus to the MXT. This mid-engined sports car, with its composite body and aluminum chassis, draws comparisons to the Lotus Elise. Powered by a Ford Duractec engine, the MXT represents Mastretta’s ambition to compete in the global sports car market.
Red and Black Ron Automoviles
Ron Automoviles
Based in Guadalajara, Ron Automoviles is a performance specialist that has created two impressive prototypes: the street-legal R07 and the electric RXX. The R07 combines elements of a Caterham and an Ariel Atom, while the RXX showcases a futuristic vision for sports cars with its unique tandem seating arrangement.
Elfi Motors
Elfi Motors, located in Veracruz, specializes in compact, battery-powered transportation. The four-door Jimmy KR prioritizes functionality and efficiency, while the three-wheel Moto Taxi TA3 offers a practical solution for urban transportation with its motorcycle-based design and built-in cooling features.
Red and Black Inferno Automobili
Inferno Automobili
Inferno Automobili pushes the boundaries of performance with its Exotic Car. This extreme machine boasts a twin-turbo V8 engine capable of reaching incredible speeds. Its unique zinc-aluminum-silver alloy body is claimed to be both incredibly strong and stretchable, setting it apart from even the most exotic supercars.
Kiri
Kiri, known for its electric motorcycles, has expanded into four-wheeled vehicles with the all-electric Neta and the Empress minibus. The Neta, a stylish crossover with a fully electric powertrain, showcases Kiri’s commitment to sustainable transportation.
Grey Solana Cars
Solana Cars
Founded in 1936, Solana Cars is a family-owned company with a focus on handcrafted, limited-production vehicles. With only a small number of cars produced throughout its history, Solana emphasizes exclusivity and bespoke design. The Deportivo Series II, inspired by classic sports cars, exemplifies Solana’s dedication to timeless aesthetics and craftsmanship.
The Future of Mexican Car Brands
While still developing compared to established global automakers, Mexican car brands are demonstrating innovation and a commitment to diverse market segments. From electric vehicles addressing environmental concerns to high-performance sports cars pushing the boundaries of speed, these companies are contributing to Mexico’s growing automotive landscape and making their presence felt on the international stage. As these brands continue to evolve, they are poised to play an increasingly significant role in the future of the automotive industry.