Ambato, March 2025
Ambacar, one of the leading companies in the Ecuadorian automotive sector, made a significant investment of US$10 million to expand its assembly capacity at the CIAUTO plant, located in Cunchibamba, 20 km from Ambato. This investment reaffirms its commitment to innovation, safety, and the development of the automotive industry in Ecuador. Made in Ecuador, by Ecuadorians and for Ecuadorians, this project drives the country's growth, generating employment, strengthening the national industry and offering quality vehicles with an Ecuadorian seal.
CIAUTO: Innovation, Leadership and Expansion in the Ecuadorian Automotive Industry
From its beginnings, CIAUTO has made an accumulated investment of US$80 million in its plant, consolidating its leadership in the Ecuadorian automotive industry. With more than 40,000 vehicles assembled and an investment of US$15 million in spare parts, the company has had a significant impact on the country's economy.
CIAUTO currently has more than 400 direct jobs, contributing to the development of employment in Ecuador. By 2025, the company plans to hire an additional 100 people, further strengthening its team. In addition, CIAUTO generates more than 2,300 indirect jobs, boosting the production chain and the growth of the national automotive sector.
Since its start of operations in 2013, CIAUTO has boosted the domestic automotive industry by assembling high quality vehicles. It has manufactured several models of recognized brands like GWM, Haval, KYC and SWM /Shineray, consolidating its position as a benchmark in technology and efficiency in manufacturing processes.
Today, CIAUTO's production remains the largest in Ecuador and its production represents a key part of vehicle assembly in the country. Its growth has transcended borders. Ambacar operates in four Latin American countries, represents 15 well-known brands and has sold more than 100,000 units. Its marketing network includes 75 points of sale in the countries where its models are distributed and has 48 specialized service points, ensuring an optimal after-sales experience for customers. In addition, CIAUTO has state-of-the-art technology and efficiency in each unit assembled, generating employment, promoting innovation and boosting the country's economy. The plant covers an area of 20 hectares and is ISO 9001:2015 certified, ensuring quality and efficient processes. In 2024, it assembled 3,476 units, consolidating its leadership in the sector.
“At CIAUTO and Ambacar we are committed to the development of employment in Ecuador. We are proud to be the number one assembler in the country, producing 100% Ecuadorian vehicles with the highest quality standards. Our investment not only strengthens the national automotive industry, but also generates job opportunities and promotes the growth of the productive sector in the country”, Santiago Gómez, Ambacar's Director of Manufacturing, emphasized..
New Vehicle Production Infrastructure
This new investment marks a strategic advance in vehicle manufacturing, guaranteeing an industrialized standard of quality and safety in each unit produced, such as:
- Modernization of factory shielding processes and technology, incorporating state-of-the-art equipment.
- Expansion of production capacity, the company's products are available for sale in the market.
- Implementation of its own 4×4 track in Ambato for performance and quality tests.
- A revolving inventory of $15 million in spare parts ensuring immediate availability for customers.
Factory Armoring: Safety and Quality Guaranteed
Factory armoring is the safest and most efficient option for customers, since the armoring process is performed under strict quality standards in the production line, ensuring the structural integrity of the vehicle and optimizing its performance. In addition, the 80 kg weight is lower in factory armoring and, therefore, has a better performance. This procedure avoids later modifications that could affect the car's warranty, balance and safety. It also provides protection against bullets, explosions and physical aggressions, ensuring rapid evacuation in emergency situations.
POER Armored: Innovation and Security
The POER has proven its success in the Ecuadorian market, with more than 2,000 units sold during 2024. Its combination of power, safety and technology have made it the truck of choice for consumers, consolidating its leadership in the segment.
POER Armored is equipped with type IIIA armor, the most widely used level, manufactured with UDura, composed of 32 unidirectional plates (with a 10-year delamination guarantee), the same material used by the Brazilian Army and certified by SGS. Its armor includes:
- 21 mm ballistic glass, with anti-UV protection and water repellent.
- Protection in the following key areas:
- Roof
- Doors
- Upper fire wall
- Rear wall
- Fender guard
- 21 mm thick ballistic glass in:
- Windshield
- Windows
- Rear window
- Optimized weight, 80 kg lighter than other armor on the market.
- 10-year warranty against delamination.
- Strict quality control, ensuring standardization and reliability of the shielding.
In Ecuador, the POER van has registered a growth of 150% vs. 2023, a trend that will continue with its armored version. The POER is already available at Ambacar's GWM dealers nationwide and competitively priced from USD 28,990 depending on the versions, and the armored version at USD 18,500. In addition, it stands out for:
- Powerful engine, guaranteeing high performance in any terrain.
- Load capacity of 1.05 tons, ideal for work and personal safety.
- Premium interior, comparable to a high-end SUV, offers greater comfort for the occupants.
- Available versions: CD 4×2 and 4×4, with a wide range of accessories.
- Diesel and Gasoline
“Our mission is to help people fulfill their dreams through innovative, safe and high quality vehicles. Our commitment to customer service is unwavering”, mentioned Santiago Gomez, Ambacar's Director of Manufacturing..
With this strategic investment, CIAUTO and Ambacar reaffirm their leadership in the Ecuadorian automotive industry, consolidating their position as leaders in the production of high quality armored vehicles.
Ambacar is an Ecuadorian company with more than 55 years of experience dedicated to the commercialization of vehicles, with a focus on providing high quality products and exceptional customer service. With a solid track record in the market, and presence in 4 Latin American countries, Ambacar stands out for its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
