The year 2024 was remarkable for the automotive sector in Brazil, registering the highest sales of new and used vehicles in history, with a total of 14.2 million units sold. Furthermore, the country reached the 8th global position among the main vehicle producers, consolidating its importance in the global automotive industry.

According to the National Association of Automotive Vehicle Manufacturers (Anfavea), 2024 was also the year of the largest investment cycle in the sector, totaling R$ 180 billion. With this growth scenario, the expectation is that the pace will remain accelerated in 2025.

Vehicle Imports in 2024

Brazil recorded a significant increase in vehicle imports in 2024, with a volume of 467,000 imported units, representing a 33% growth compared to 2023. The previous record was in 2015, with 414,000 units.

This growth also brought changes to the market, with a highlight on electrified vehicles: approximately 200,000 imported units were hybrid and electric.

The main countries supplying vehicles to Brazil in 2024 were:

• Argentina: 48%

• China: 26%

• Mexico: 10%

• Germany: 5%

• Uruguay: 4%

China, in particular, expanded its presence in the Brazilian market, especially in the electrified vehicle segment. The volume of vehicles shipped from China to Brazil grew by 187% compared to 2023, consolidating the Asian country as a strategic player in this segment.

Vehicle Production and Exports in 2024

Vehicle production in Brazil reached 2.55 million units in 2024, a 9.7% growth compared to the previous year. This performance led Brazil to recover the 8th position in the global ranking of car production.

On the other hand, exports showed a slight decrease of 1.3%, totaling 398,500 vehicles sent to other countries. Despite this reduction, demand from Argentina and Uruguay partially compensated for the decrease in shipments to other destinations.

Prospects for the Automotive Sector in 2025

For 2025, Anfavea projects growth in several indicators of the Brazilian automotive sector, considering both light and heavy vehicles:

• Registrations: 2.80 million units (+6.3%).

• Exports: 428,000 units (+7.4%).

• Production: 2.74 million units (+7.8%).

The global trend of electrification should continue to drive demand for hybrid and electric vehicles, which represents a challenge for the national industry. Currently, imported models dominate this segment, and the sector needs to adapt to compete more efficiently.

From July 2025 and July 2026, the import tax for electrified vehicles will undergo gradual increases, which may impact the volume of imports. Check out the new percentages:

• Electric vehicles: from 18% to 25% in 2025 and to 35% in 2026.

• Hybrid vehicles: from 25% to 30% in 2025 and to 35% in 2026.

• Plug-in vehicles: from 20% to 28% in 2025 and to 35% in 2026.

Conclusion

The Brazilian automotive sector is experiencing a moment of transformation and growth. The record sales, increased production, and expansion of imports reflect the dynamism of the market. However, challenges such as the need to adapt to electrification and the increase in taxes on imported vehicles demand strategies to maintain the sector's competitiveness.

The year 2025 promises new advances, and following market changes will be essential for everyone involved in the Brazilian automotive industry.

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