Brazil's car market spotlights low‑cost ownership models and Leapmotor's new electric hatch

The Prêmio Menor Custo de Uso evaluated the ten best‑selling models in each segment to identify the cars with the lowest annual cost of ownership in Brazil for 2026. It accounted for purchase price, insurance (based on a 35‑year‑old married male profile), first‑year service, IPVA, fuel (R$6.67 / L gasoline, R$7.28 / L diesel) or electricity (R$2.40 /kWh‑DC for EVs), and excluded depreciation. The analysis covered gasoline, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles and presented monthly cost figures for each model.

Meanwhile, Chinese automaker Leapmotor unveiled its compact electric hatch A05 (global name B03), measuring 4.17 m long, 1.79 m wide and 1.56 m high, with a 2.60 m wheelbase and a two‑level luggage compartment. The vehicle offers ADAS features, a spacious cabin, and two powertrains – 94 hp with a 40 kWh battery or 121 hp with a 53 kWh pack – delivering roughly 510 km WLTC range and fast‑charging capability. Leapmotor positions the A05 to compete with models such as BYD Dolphin, Geely EX2 and other entry‑level electric hatchbacks in Brazil.