Brazil could see twice as many new jobs by 2050 if the country goes all-in on electric vehicle production, researchers from the International Council on Clean Transportation found in a study backed by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), according to a press release. The research shows that investing in battery manufacturing and training workers for the electric car industry could create a whole new industrial chain. Most job growth would happen in services like technical support, engineering, logistics, and sales, with vehicle manufacturing also seeing big gains.
Electric vehicle sales are already picking up in Brazil, but this transition will reshape entire industries. The study found that while battery and electrical component manufacturing will boom, traditional sectors like fossil fuels and auto parts will likely shrink. This represents a fundamental shift in how Brazil’s economy works and who benefits from it.
The financial picture looks promising. Moving to electric vehicles could generate 85% more income than the current system, with workers getting a bigger slice. Under the EV scenario, 53% of value created would go to salaries, compared to just 45% today.
“Electric vehicle sales are already growing in Brazil, but we must also consider the social and economic impacts of this transition,” said Marcel Martin, Executive Director of ICCT Brazil.
However, Brazil needs smart policies to capture these benefits. Without moves to boost EV exports, the country could miss 14% of potential job creation. The researchers recommend tax breaks, export credit programs, and trade deals with Latin American countries to maximize opportunities.
See also: Brazil bets on decarbonization to revive automotive industry
The study makes clear that Brazil’s electric vehicle transition isn’t just about cleaner transportation—it’s about building a more prosperous economy that works better for everyone. With the right policies, this shift could transform Brazil into a major player in the global electric vehicle market while creating millions of good-paying jobs.
