Ecuador and Chile auto sales hit record growth in first half of 2026

In Ecuador, the automotive sector recorded a historic first‑half of 2026 with 78,185 new vehicles sold, surpassing the previous record of 70,294 set in 2011. Sales were up 41.4% from the same period in 2025, and June alone saw 14,412 registrations, the highest monthly total ever. Light‑vehicle sales reached 12,755 units, while commercial vehicles rose 69.9% to 1,657 units. Hybrids accounted for 14,139 units (about 18% of the market) and grew 76.4% year‑on‑year, while electric vehicle sales jumped 260.9% to 5,457 units, led by BYD. Commercial trucks totaled 8,356 units, a 47.7% increase.

Chile also experienced a strong first half, with 26,576 new light‑ and medium‑weight vehicles registered in June, a 9.5% rise over June 2025 and the best June since 2022. The six‑month total reached 153,574 units, up 5.5% from the same period a year earlier. SUVs drove most of the growth, with 83,247 units sold (a 16% increase) and capturing 54.2% of the market. The Mitsubishi L‑200 pickup was the best‑selling model, followed by the Toyota Hilux and GWM Poer. Chinese‑made vehicles accounted for 48.1% of units sold and Chinese brands held 37.1% of market share, both records for the series. Industry leaders attribute the expansion to attractive financing, economic stability, and aggressive brand promotions.