Germany’s federal ministry for economic co-operation and development (BMZ) is investing €5mn over four years to help develop the electric car sector in Brazil.

Under the technical co-operation agreement, the two governments will create guidelines for credit lines and support to innovative technologies, and Germany will provide know-how and advice to public and private representatives of the sector on the management of Brazil’s electric and hybrid car fleet.

Brazil’s head of mobility and logistics at the ministry of development, industry and international trade, Margarete Gandini, explains: “Germany already has the know-how in more efficient propulsion technologies. Its contribution will be of utmost importance for the development of public policies and the creation of new business models.”

In 2015, the Brazilian government approved the reduction of import duties for vehicles equipped with hybrid and electric engines, a first step towards improving environmental efficiency in the country.