Romeu Zema Speaks Out, But Chinese Companies Are Creating Jobs and Factories for Batteries and Electric Cars in Brazil
Electric cars have been causing a stir not only in the automotive market but also in political spheres for some time now.
In a recent statement, the governor of Minas Gerais, Romeu Zema, who owns a chain of gas stations, did not hold back criticism of electric vehicles. According to him, the adoption of these vehicles would be a “threat to our jobs.”
The Clash: Imported Batteries vs. Local Jobs
According to Zema, the rise of electric cars would imply importing batteries and destroying jobs related to the combustion engine supply chain. But, the reality is a bit different.
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How GMC decided to create a cheaper “mini Hummer” after the failure of giant electric vehicles and revealed radical SUVs that promise to take on the Bronco and Wrangler with a brutal look, futuristic technology, and off-road capability in the USA.
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Chile inaugurates the first electric highway for the trucks that drive its economy, installs high-power chargers over 400 km, and aims to reduce diesel dependency in a logistical shift to Puerto Montt by 2030.
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New Brazilian Fiat Fastback with a hybrid flex engine of up to 180 hp and a range of over 1,000 km will give rise to the new “affordable” Chrysler SUV in the US, in a project aiming to increase the brand’s sales to 225,000 cars by 2030.
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Honda’s pickup the size of the Ram Rampage will feature a new hybrid V6 engine, a new generation with a refreshed design, more power, and improved acceleration after a production pause until 2028 to compete with the Toyota Tacoma, the leader with 274,000 annual sales.
Chinese companies like BYD and GWM are not only investing in electric cars but already have factories in the country. Moreover, BYD has already inaugurated a battery factory operating in Brazil since August 2020.
The governor’s criticism contradicts itself by ignoring that BYD and GWM are creating jobs, instead of taking them away. Local battery production will increase, driven by more demand from electric automakers, generating even more jobs.
Components and Maintenance
Zema also touched on the point that electric cars require less maintenance. His view clashes with the market reality, as more than 90% of cars sold in Brazil are still combustion vehicles.
Replacement parts continue to be produced for older models, ensuring the maintenance of jobs in the sector.
Competition Heats Up in the Brazilian Market
Meanwhile, on the consumer side, electric cars are gaining popularity. The BYD Dolphin, for example, sold over 1,000 units last month.
In addition, models like the Ora 03 from GWM and the Peugeot e2008 have shown that the electric car market is competitive and offers options for all budgets.
Controversies aside, one thing is certain: electric cars are here to stay. Criticism from politicians and businessmen will not change the fact that the industry is evolving and consumers are paying attention to this. It’s the wheel of evolution, which keeps turning.


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