Mexico’s New Electric Car Brand Olinia Unveils Alebrije Logo

Mexico City, Mexico — Olinia, the Mexican assembler of mini electric vehicles, has revealed its official emblem: a winged alebrije hare symbolizing intelligence, adaptability, and innovation. The logo was presented during the August 13, 2025, edition of La Mañanera del Pueblo, the daily press briefing led by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo.

A Symbol of Innovation and Tradition

Roberto Capuano Tripp, coordinator of the Olinia Project, introduced the emblem, describing it as a representation of “practical intelligence, energy efficiency, freedom of movement, and the flight of innovation.” The design draws from Oaxacan alebrije art, blending cultural heritage with the project’s forward-looking vision.

President Sheinbaum emphasized that Olinia is a national initiative aimed at advancing electromobility at an affordable cost. The project involves over 100 scientists, technologists, and engineers from institutions including the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN), the National Technological Institute of Mexico (TecNM), the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), and research centers under the Secretariat of Science, Humanities, Technology, and Innovation (Secihti).

Two Vehicle Models in Development

Capuano outlined Olinia’s initial offerings:

• A passenger vehicle designed as a safer, more spacious alternative to mototaxis.
• A commercial delivery vehicle to support small businesses.

Both models will be lightweight, electric, and capable of handling inclines. They can recharge using standard household outlets, with operating costs lower than gasoline-powered cars or motorcycles. The first vehicles are expected by mid-2026.

Academic and Technological Collaboration

Arturo Reyes Sandoval, director of IPN, detailed the institute’s contributions: exterior and interior design, embedded software for vehicle control and monitoring, and infrastructure planning for production and testing. IPN will also launch a specialization in hybrid and electric vehicles starting August 18, 2025.

Ramón Jiménez López, director general of TecNM, highlighted Olinia’s role in advancing Mexico’s scientific and technological independence.

Parallel Semiconductor Initiative

The announcement also addressed progress on Kutsari, Mexico’s National Semiconductor Center, with locations in Puebla, Jalisco, and Sonora. The center focuses on designing semiconductors for medical equipment, with a goal of commercial chip production by 2027 and self-sufficiency by 2030.

Rosaura Ruiz Gutiérrez, head of Secihti, framed Olinia and Kutsari as foundational to a new era where “science and humanities translate into social justice, and technology into sovereignty.”

Edmundo Antonio Gutiérrez Domínguez of Innovabienestar confirmed the Cholula, Puebla, semiconductor facility is ready for inauguration, while collaborations continue with Cinvestav in Jalisco and the University of Sonora.

Government Commitment

President Sheinbaum reiterated the administration’s support, stating, “These vehicles will be electric, non-polluting, and tailored to the needs of Mexican users.” The project aligns with broader efforts to position Mexico at the forefront of sustainable industrial development.