Brazil's heavy‑truck sector targets LNG and biometano as diesel alternatives

Volvo Truck Brazil plans to bring its liquefied natural gas (LNG) truck technology to the Brazilian market, following deployments in Chile and Peru. Executive Alcides Cavalcanti said the LNG‑diesel cycle offers higher torque and efficiency than the Otto‑cycle gas trucks used by competitors, and that the solution is suited for long‑distance heavy transport. No launch timetable was provided, and the company noted that cost remains a barrier compared with diesel and electric trucks.

Separately, biometano produced from urban waste and agricultural residues is being promoted as a near‑term diesel substitute for trucks, buses and farm machinery. Production is currently below 1 million m³ per day but is expected to double next year, with long‑term potential of 120 million m³ daily—enough to replace about 60 % of diesel used in trucks. The fuel can be injected directly into existing natural‑gas pipelines and offers more than a 90 % reduction in greenhouse‑gas emissions. Challenges include pricing and fueling infrastructure, noted Daniela Teixeira of Gás Verde.

Both developments reflect Brazil’s broader push to decarbonise heavy‑vehicle transport through alternative fuels such as LNG, biometano and biodiesel.