Transição energética no setor de transporte rodoviário brasileiro: políticas públicas de incentivo aos biocombustíveis e à eletrificação

Abstract

This study analyzes the evolution of energy consumption in Brazil’s road transport sector and examines how public policies for biofuels and electrification shape its energy transition. Using data from the National Energy Balance, reports from the Energy Research Company and specialized literature, the results show that the sector remains highly dependent on diesel, especially in freight transport. However, gradual diversification is observed, driven by ethanol in light-duty vehicles, biodiesel in heavy-duty fleets, and an emerging but still limited electrification of urban transport. Findings indicate that ethanol has consolidated institutional framework, from Proálcool to Combustível do Futuro, integrating industrial development, and emission mitigation. Biodiesel advances through blending mandates and environmental certification, while electrification faces challenges related to infrastructure and technological costs. International comparison shows that Brazil follows a unique trajectory, grounded in competitive advantages in biofuels, but still requiring stronger policy coordination. The study concludes that Brazil should pursue a dual strategy: strengthening its leadership in biofuels while gradually expanding electrification, ensuring regulatory stability and integrating energy, environmental, and industrial policies.