Volkswagen expands Brazil production with hybrid cars and new T‑Roc SUV

Volkswagen has begun low‑rate production of a hybrid vehicle at its São Bernardo do Campo plant in São Paulo state, with serial production slated for early 2027. The launch was highlighted by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who linked the move to growing competition from Chinese automakers and the need for domestic electrification.

In parallel, the company disclosed plans for a region‑specific T‑Roc SUV, larger than its European counterpart and equipped with two flexible‑fuel hybrid powertrains – a 48‑volt mild hybrid and a conventional hybrid paired with a 1.5 TSI Evo2 engine. The new model will use the MQB Evo platform, feature a distinct Brazilian design, and share the assembly line with an upcoming A‑SUV. Both projects are part of a 20 billion‑real investment programme aimed at modernising Volkswagen’s product lineup in Brazil and Argentina.