In 2019, Peruvian entrepreneur Luis Zwiebach journeyed to California to test drive a Tesla Model 3, intent on bringing an electric vehicle back to his home country. Despite Tesla’s hurdles in the region, he purchased a locally-imported model and found creative solutions to initial charging issues.
Now, the landscape for electric vehicles (EVs) in Peru has changed dramatically with the emergence of affordable Chinese brands such as BYD, Geely, and GWM. These brands offer EVs at around 60% of a Tesla’s price, significantly boosting the market. Sales of hybrid and electric vehicles in Peru hit a record 7,256 units, a 44% increase compared to the previous year.
Chinese automakers are capitalizing on new transportation routes and favorable conditions in Latin America to increase their market share. The newly-opened Port of Chancay in Peru has become a vital entry point for Chinese vehicles. This surge of imports, alongside strategic partnerships with local importers, is reshaping the automotive landscape across the continent.
