Market News
Recent Developments
New product launches
- In 2022, Toyota (a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer) launched the Corolla Cross SUV with a flex-fuel engine in Brazil, marking the first flex-fuel variant of the model. It is expected to attract customers looking for ethanol-powered vehicles.
- In 2022, Volkswagen (a German automobile manufacturer) launched the Polo and Virtus sedan models with flex-fuel engines in Brazil. The launch aligns with Volkswagen's aim to have over 70% of its vehicles in Brazil equipped with flex-fuel engines by 2023.
- In 2021, Ford (The Company sells automobiles and commercial vehicles under the Ford brand, and luxury cars under its Lincoln brand.) launched its 2021 F-150 pickup truck series with a flex-fuel capability by allowing it to run on gasoline and ethanol blends up to E85. This helped expand Ford's flex-fuel offerings in the popular F-150 lineup.
Acquisition and partnerships
- In 2022, Mercedes-Benz (offers a range of luxury car models in India, including sedans, SUVs, and more) acquired a minority stake in Flex Fuel Energy Development to help install flex-fuel pumps across Brazil. This supports Mercedes' plans to expand flex-fuel offerings in Brazil.
- In 2022, GM Brazil and Cosan (a Brazilian conglomerate producer of bioethanol, sugar and energy) announced a partnership to install over 100 ethanol hydration units at GM dealerships in Brazil. This will expand access to ethanol fuel for GM's flex-fuel vehicle customers.