More and more cars of Chinese origin are circulating on Ecuadorian streets and, according to the Association of Automotive Companies (AEADE), at least 34,756 units have been sold in the first half of the year, despite a slight slowdown in the automotive market so far in 2024.
Genaro Baldeón, executive president of the association that represents 130 companies in the sector in the country, reported that at least 60 Chinese brands are present in the country, demonstrating “their diversity and technological innovation.”
The best-selling Chinese brand in Ecuador is Chery, which has prices starting at $16,490. According to the July bulletin of the AEADE, this car brand was ranked fifth.
Christian Cazar, Marketing Manager of Chery in Ecuador, believes that the success of this car is due to the fact that it completely changed the value proposition.
“There is more equipment, better prices, better products, a distribution network, 99% coverage of the country, better after-sales service,” Cazar told the Voice of America.
There are mixed opinions on the streets regarding Chinese vehicles.
Hernán Quiñones, an Ecuadorian driver, said that the quality of Chinese car brands “is good.” “This brand has never given me any problems,” said Quiñones, referring to his Chery vehicle.
However, not everyone shares Quiñones’ vision and there are those who remain skeptical of the innovation claimed by Chinese brands. Andrea Cruz, an Ecuadorian host, is one of them.
“Vehicles from before (or other brands) have a backing and warranty that many Chinese vehicles do not have, apart from the fact that maintenance and spare parts are more expensive and excessive,” said Cruz.
Although the total number of Chinese vehicles is in the lead, the number one brand in sales in Ecuador is Chevrolet, with 12,177 vehicles sold between January and July of this year.
Connect with the Voice of America! Subscribe to our channelsYouTube, WhatsApp and to newsletter. Turn on notifications and follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram.
Add Comment