Automotive markets see shifting trends in electric and hybrid vehicle demand

The automotive landscape in Portugal and Brazil is undergoing significant shifts in consumer preference regarding electrification and vehicle types. In Portugal, the Tesla Model 3 has emerged as the most sought-after vehicle, representing 3.35% of total inquiries, while SUVs continue to dominate the market with nearly 30% of consumer interest.

In Brazil, the market shows diverse trends. Leapmotor has become a leader in the medium and large electric SUV segment, capturing 19.7% of that market. Conversely, Fiat has seen a sharp decline in the market share of its mild hybrid (MHEV) models, dropping from 38% in 2025 to 15.9% by mid-2026, as consumers pivot toward traditional combustion engines or more advanced full electric and hybrid imports.

While electrification is expanding, some industry experts in Brazil suggest that biomethene could serve as a more efficient alternative for heavy transport due to existing logistics and lower costs compared to imported electric technology. Additionally, the electric bus sector in Brazil is seeing domestic growth, with companies like Eletra leading the market against international giants.