Brazil increases ethanol blend in gasoline to 32%, sparking debate on vehicle compatibility

Starting August 1st, 2024, Brazil will increase the ethanol blend in gasoline from 30% to 32%. This decision, announced by the National Council of Energy Policy (CNPE) on July 14th and effective for 180 days, aims to address volatility in the oil and fuel markets, particularly amid rising fossil fuel costs and the conflict in the Middle East. However, the move has drawn criticism, with the Federal Public Ministry filing a lawsuit to suspend the increase, citing inconclusive tests and insufficient environmental impact assessments. Experts warn that older vehicles or those not specifically calibrated for higher ethanol content may experience increased fuel consumption, corrosion, and component wear. The CNPE, however, maintains that tests showed equivalent performance to lower blends without significant impacts, even on non-flex engines. The Union of Sugarcane and Bioenergy Industries (Unica) supports the measure, stating the sector can meet demand and that it could reduce gasoline imports. Concerns about material compatibility, especially for older and imported cars designed solely for gasoline, have been raised by manufacturers like Anfavea and engineers. Ethanol's hygroscopic nature means it can absorb water, potentially leading to corrosion in metal engine components not designed for such conditions. While specific additives can offer some protection, they cannot fully mitigate incompatibility risks in older systems. The CNPE has defended the decision, asserting that extensive testing, both in labs and real-world conditions, demonstrated no significant adverse effects on vehicle operation.