Techno-economic and environmental analysis of decarbonization pathways for road freight transportation in Brazil

This study evaluates alternative trucking technologies for Brazil's freight transport sector to address its significant greenhouse gas emissions. The authors assess the suitability of Diesel Oil, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and Electric trucks through a comprehensive multi-dimensional framework analyzing economic viability, environmental impact, infrastructure requirements, and societal implications. The methodology incorporates Brazil-specific factors including energy matrix composition, infrastructure availability, and socioeconomic conditions. The analysis reveals that Diesel Oil trucks currently offer the most balanced solution for Brazil, with lower total cost of ownership, established infrastructure, and widespread maintenance networks. Electric trucks, despite superior environmental performance, face significant barriers including high acquisition costs and limited charging infrastructure. CNG trucks present moderate environmental benefits but encounter infrastructure limitations throughout Brazil. The research also identifies Solid Oxide Fuel Cells as a promising technology deserving further investigation, particularly in the context of Brazil's diverse renewable energy potential. These findings demonstrate that effective decarbonization strategies must account for regional contexts rather than adopting global solutions without adaptation. This research contributes to the development of realistic, context-appropriate pathways toward sustainable freight transportation in emerging economies.