Thorough evaluation of the available light-duty engine technologies to reduce greenhouse gases emissions in Brazil

Currently, there are serious concerns regards the increase of the Earth's temperature. In addition, studies about global warming have identified many different sources that contribute to the emissions of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Previous studies indicate that the transport sector is among the main drivers of global warming. Moreover, the solutions provided so far focus only on the environmental factor in order to reduce emissions. However, this study has the objective to provide a thorough analysis that considers economic, environmental, social, and infrastructure factors. Furthermore, the analysis is focused on the Brazilian scenario, therefore, the factors comprise the unique characteristics of the country. The comparison made includes three engine technologies: electric, flex-fuel, and hybrid. The results show that the flex-fuel engine is the best alternative for a light alternative for light commercial vehicles to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, the results indicate that flex-fuel engines have the best economic and environmental performance. Therefore, the government should provide incentives for this engine technology. On the other hand, the results show that electric vehicles are not a suitable solution given the specificities of the country. [Display omitted] •Flex-fuel engines are the best alternative to reduce greenhouse gases emissions in Brazil.•Electric vehicles are less environmentally friendly than flex-fuel cars considering a broader analysis.•Flex-fuel vehicles should receive incentives to boost the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from the transport sector.