Background on Querétaro and its Relevance in the Automotive Industry
Querétaro, a state in central Mexico, has been facing a downturn in new vehicle sales for the past two months. In March alone, 2,935 new vehicles were sold, marking a 5.6% annual decline compared to the same month in 2024 when 3,108 units were sold. This trend follows a 0.5% decrease in February, as reported by the Mexican Association of Automobile Dealers (AMDA).
Who is Laura Rodríguez Miranda and Why is She Relevant?
Laura Rodríguez Miranda, the president of AMDA in Querétaro, attributes this slump to the uncertainty surrounding the United States’ tariff policies. Her insights provide crucial context for understanding the current state of new vehicle sales in the region.
Key Factors Impacting New Vehicle Sales in Querétaro
- Arbitrary Tariff Policies: The primary reason for the decline in new vehicle sales is the uncertainty caused by the United States’ tariff policies. These policies have led to a decrease in consumer confidence, affecting the automotive market in Querétaro.
- Economic Conditions: The overall economic situation in Mexico also plays a significant role. A stronger national economy could potentially boost new vehicle sales, as consumers feel more secure about their financial situation.
- Vehicle Segment Preferences: In Querétaro, heavy-duty vehicles dominate the market, accounting for 56.7% of sales (3,401 multi-purpose vehicles and 1,590 trucks). Passenger cars make up the remaining 43.3% of sales, with subcompacts, compacts, luxury vehicles, and sports cars being the most popular choices.
- Top Vehicle Brands: Nissan, Volkswagen, General Motors, Kia, and Mazda are the most sought-after brands in Querétaro’s automotive market.
Growing Interest in Hybrid and Electric Vehicles
In the first quarter of 2025, hybrid and electric vehicles accounted for nearly 8% of total sales in Querétaro, with 703 units sold. This growing interest in eco-friendly vehicles positions Querétaro as the tenth largest market for electromobility in Mexico, according to AMDA.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is causing the decline in new vehicle sales in Querétaro? The uncertainty surrounding the United States’ tariff policies is primarily responsible for the decrease in new vehicle sales.
- Which vehicle segments are most popular in Querétaro? Heavy-duty vehicles, such as multi-purpose vehicles and trucks, dominate the market, accounting for 56.7% of sales.
- What role do economic conditions play in new vehicle sales? A stronger national economy could potentially boost new vehicle sales as consumers feel more secure about their financial situation.
- Which brands are most popular in Querétaro’s automotive market? Nissan, Volkswagen, General Motors, Kia, and Mazda are the most sought-after brands in Querétaro.
- How is the interest in hybrid and electric vehicles evolving in Querétaro? Hybrid and electric vehicles accounted for nearly 8% of total sales in the first quarter of 2025, indicating a growing interest in eco-friendly vehicles.
