The truck fleet in Brazil is aging and faces significant challenges for renewal. In 2023, the average age of trucks in the country was 12,2 years, according to data from the National Union of the Automotive Components Industry (Sindipeças). The problem worsens among self-employed truck drivers, whose fleet has an average age of 22,3 years, while in transportation companies the average is 10,8 years.
A reality compromises road safety, logistical efficiency and contributes to the increase in pollutant emissions. And it still harms the industries in the sector, like the road equipment company, said Osmar Oliveira, CEO and founder of 4TRUCK, leader in the light-duty road equipment segment
Currently, they circulate approximately 2,2 million trucks in Brazil, according to the National Confederation of Transport (CNT), with an average age of 15 years. This aging directly impacts the competitiveness of the sector, increasing operational costs with maintenance and fuel consumption, in addition to reducing road safety
For the founder of 4TRUCK, the renewal of the truck fleet in Brazil requires the implementation of public policies that facilitate access to credit and encourage the modernization of road transport. Associations advocate for the creation of financing programs with more favorable conditions for small and medium carriers.
The adoption of measures that promote the acquisition of new trucks could reduce operational costs, increase safety on the roads and reduce pollutant emissions, contributing to a more efficient and sustainable transportation sector. Oliveira, who is a civil engineer and has been working for over 20 years in the supply and logistics sectors, claims that the lack of credit lines has increased the truck rental market, but it still doesn't solve the issue of fleet aging.
Difficulties in accessing credit lines
The fleet renewal faces difficulties in accessing financing. Although there are options like BNDES Finem, that offers interest rates starting from 1,5% per year for companies, The minimum financing amount is R$ 40 million, making it unviable for small carriers to join. Credit conditions vary depending on the financial institution and the client's profile, making financing inaccessible to many self-employed truck drivers
Besides credit difficulties, high interest rates in the market discourage the purchase of new trucks. The high cost of financing causes many carriers to choose to keep old vehicles, worsening even more the problem of the aging fleet. Specialists argue that government measures, as incentive programs for fleet renewal with reduced rates, would be essential to boost the sector
Finally, the new Selic rate, scheduled to come into effect on March 19, promises to mess with the pockets of Brazilians. That's because of the increase in the rate, despite reducing inflation and improving fixed income investments, it makes credit more expensive and can slow down the economy, impacting jobs and consumption
A directly affected sector is the credit sector. Loan, financings and installment plans become more expensive, because banks raise interest rates to compensate for the higher cost of money. With that, vehicle and real estate financing become more expensive, discouraging installment purchases.
Production and sales of trucks in Brazil
Despite the challenges, the truck market showed growth in 2024, with a production of 141,3 thousand units, a 40 increase,5% compared to 2023. For 2025, The National Association of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (Anfavea) projects stable production, estimating 169,4 million commercial vehicles, including trucks and buses
Regarding sales, In 2024, 122 were registered.099 trucks, a growth of 17,4% compared to the previous year. For 2025, The National Federation of Motor Vehicle Distribution (Fenabrave) projects a 4 increase,5%, totaling about 127.593 units sold
Whoever buys a new truck is eager to make the purchase turn into profits. That's why, 4TRUCK will deliver dry cargo containers in just five days this year. Everything to keep the truck from stopping
The initiative comes at a great time. With a highly competitive market and rising fees and interest rates, we want the autonomous driver or even transportation companies to have their trucks ready as quickly as possible so that business does not stop, affirms Osmar Oliveira, of 4TRUCK
