Brazil is rapidly expanding its biomethane-powered heavy-duty vehicle fleet and production capacity, positioning the renewable gas as a key component in its energy transition and transport decarbonization strategy.
Biomethane output in São Paulo state alone is projected to surge by 50% in 2026 with the launch of seven new biogas plants, according to industry projections. This expansion is bolstering Brazil's renewable natural gas (RNG) infrastructure and aims to reduce reliance on diesel in freight transportation.
Swedish manufacturer Scania, an early entrant, is now facing competition from Chinese automaker JAC Motors, which is introducing new gas-powered heavy trucks. Brazilian logistics firm Green Cargo plans to deploy between 150 and 200 biomethane trucks over the next 12 months, partnering with major corporations including JBS, Suzano, Veracel, and Eldorado for vehicle validation.
Volkswagen Caminhões e Ônibus is also contributing, with its new Constellation Biomethane model joining the fleet of EcoUrbis, a São Paulo waste management concessionaire. The vehicle, customized for solid waste collection, can cut CO2 emissions by up to 90% compared to diesel models, the manufacturer stated.
In a significant investment, Brazilian engine maker MWM and Vamos Group, a leading truck and machinery rental company, are jointly investing 150 million Brazilian reais ($30 million) in a project to convert diesel trucks to operate on biogas. Vamos plans to deliver the first 100 converted units to Rio de Janeiro's municipal sanitation company, Comlurb, in the first quarter.
Experts highlight biomethane's strategic role in energy security, as it is domestically produced from local waste streams, offering stability against geopolitical factors affecting fossil natural gas. Academic research is focusing on upgrading biogas to biomethane and integrating plants into circular bio-refineries, further supporting technological development and sustainability standards.
Strategic Benefits of Biomethane
- Energy Security: Biomethane is domestically produced from local waste, reducing dependence on imports and geopolitical factors
- Economic Impact: Stabilizes energy prices, supports rural development, and creates qualified jobs
- Environmental: Reduces nitrate pollution, minimizes odors, and provides biofertilizer from digestate
Scale Considerations: Medium-sized biomethane plants offer the optimal balance between efficiency and environmental management. Small plants in small cities sometimes lack technical expertise or lack of qualified professionals in Brazil, while very large facilities face logistical challenges.
Transportation Applications: Biomethane trucks reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining performance comparable to diesel vehicles. When produced at scale, biomethane can be price-competitive with fossil natural gas.
Brazil's Strategy
As Brazil expands biomethane production, renewable gas is becoming central to the country's decarbonization strategy, connecting waste management, energy independence, and sustainable freight transport.
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