With a 48V system, SUV produced in São Caetano do Sul (SP) will seek energy efficiency to fit into a federal program and keep IPI at zero
Chevrolet will start renewing its portfolio in Brazil with the launch of its first flex hybrid models. According to Jorge Moraes, from CNN, the Tracker was chosen to debut the technology, which becomes the centerpiece of General Motors’ plan to electrify the line produced in São Caetano do Sul (SP). The solution seeks to balance the reduction of emissions with commercial viability in the domestic market.
Unlike full hybrid systems (HEV), the Tracker adopts a 48V mild-hybrid (MHEV) architecture. In this set, an electric motor replaces the alternator and the conventional starter motor, helping the combustion unit in situations of greater effort, such as starting and resuming speed.
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The focus of engineering is on energy efficiency. As the electric motor does not drive the wheels independently, the performance rates remain close to the current ones: the 1.0 turbo engine delivers 115.5 hp, while the 1.2 turbo maintains 141 hp. The advantage lies in the fuel economy, the reduction of pollutants and the greater smoothness of the start-stop system.
The movement has a strong strategic component linked to the Sustainable Car Program. The recalibration of the motors and the addition of the 48V system allow the Tracker to meet the new efficiency rates required by the government. By meeting the targets, the model guarantees the maintenance of the IPI at zero, avoiding the jump to the 6.3% rate provided for less efficient vehicles.
Chevrolet’s offensive will extend to other segments in 2026. The next confirmed launch is the Sonic, which returns to Brazil with a coupe SUV body and the same mild-hybrid system. In the field of 100% electric, the bet will be on the Binguo S, a model positioned to compete with the BYD Dolphin, equipped with a 101 hp engine and a focus on urban mobility.
