Rise in Motorcycle Use in Ecuador
In recent years, Ecuador has witnessed a remarkable surge in the number of motorcycles dominating its roads. According to data from the Ecuadorian Automotive Industry Chamber (Cinae), 96 motorcycle brands are currently being commercialized in the country in 2024, reports El Universo.
From January to March 2024 alone, a total of 46,304 two-wheeled vehicles were sold nationwide, as reported by the Ecuadorian Automotive Companies Association. This surge in motorcycle ownership can be attributed to several factors. Urbanization has accelerated, creating a greater need for nimble and cost-effective mobility solutions in cities. Additionally, advancements in motorcycle manufacturing technologies have made these vehicles more accessible to a wider range of people.
Jimmy Riofrío, Marketing Director of Samadi Motos, notes that the rise in home delivery services and the expansion of e-commerce have also played significant roles in driving the demand for motorcycles. Their versatility and fuel efficiency make them an appealing choice for many drivers.
Riofrío points out that low-displacement motorcycles and utility motorcycles for work, such as those used for delivery and urban transportation, have experienced the most significant growth in sales and popularity among Ecuadorian consumers.
This trend is further supported by Juan Carlos Vayas Gando, CEO of Unnomotors/Unnocycles, who highlights that utility motorcycles have seen the highest demand, representing 32% of all registered motorcycles in the country between 2022 and 2024. However, while sports motorcycles and dual-purpose motorcycles remain popular choices, their growth in the first quarter of this year has not been as pronounced compared to previous years.
In February 2024, the automotive market sold 15,471 motorcycles, which is 1,941 units more than in the same month of 2023, according to the Ecuadorian Automotive Companies Association (Aeade). The 14% increase in February sales shows a recovery for this segment, which experienced a decline in sales in January, describes Primicias. Cumulatively, between January and February 2024, the sector sold 28,939 motorcycles, representing a 3% increase compared to the first two months of the previous year.
More Women Prefer Buying Motorcycles
“Women now see motorcycles as a viable work tool,” wrote La Hora in 2022. “In Ambato, a helmet, a bag, and a driver’s license have become essential tools for women navigating the city streets on motorcycles,” writes the Ecuadorian press. This shift stems from the need for mobility, self-employment opportunities, and cost-saving measures for fares and fuel.
In a section titled, “Stories of Adaptation,” La Hora shares the testimony of Mercy Cuenca, 32, who found herself unemployed during the pandemic. To make ends meet, she learned to do nails, a skill she leveraged into a home-based business once lockdowns lifted. To facilitate her newfound venture, she invested in a scooter.
Similar to Mercy, Dayana López, 27, opted for a motorcycle citing commute efficiency during rush hours.”Both acknowledged the initial stigma attached to women riding motorcycles, traditionally seen as a male-dominated domain,” writes La Hora. Yet, as Mirella Gómez, a motorcycle saleswoman, notes, times are changing, and women are embracing new roles and challenges, the press details.
Out of every 25 motorcycles sold monthly, 12 are now purchased by women, reports La Hora. Gómez highlights the evolving perception of motorcycles as essential work tools for women, leading to the introduction of more comfortable models. Previously, out of 25 monthly motorcycle sales, only one or two went to women. Now, at least 12 out of every 25 motorcycles are purchased by women, La Hora reported in 2022.
A market study conducted on motorcycle sales reveals that women are now purchasing more of these vehicles. Thirteen years ago, out of 200 buyers, only one was a woman. Today, this number has significantly increased, with the growth ranging from 8 to 10%, according to the study, reported Diario Expreso in November 2023.
As for the motorcycle market in Ecuador, it has experienced a considerable increase recently. “This growth significantly benefits the market, including motorcycle sales, spare parts, workshops like mine, and modifications,” a workshop owner told Diario Expreso.
Moreover, the market for women has also expanded. “Previously, I had hardly any female followers, but now 5 to 10% of my followers are women, and they are also becoming customers,” noted the shop owner.
Soledad Quartucci | CEO/Founder, Latina Republic
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