The cities of Goiana and São José dos Pinhais have been chosen to host the first industrial operations dedicated to the production of flex hybrid SUVs in Brazil, developed by Chinese automakers. The initiative marks the introduction of a new segment in the Brazilian market, combining combustion engines adapted for use with ethanol and petrol alongside electrical systems imported from Asia.

Production is scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2027 and involves the integration of technologies from companies such as Leapmotor and Geely with Fiat engines, adapted to Brazil's fuel landscape.

Among the first planned models are the Leapmotor B10 SUV, a pioneer in the use of the Fiat engine, and the Geely EX5 EM-I, which offers an electric range of over 100 kilometres and an average fuel economy exceeding 20 km/l.

António Filosa, Chief Executive Officer of Stellantis, highlighted that the presence of these companies in Brazil reflects long-term planning developed in China, resulting in high structural competitiveness.

(Source: Portal Viu, 9 April)