Brazil is experiencing a decisive moment in its transition to electric mobility. Between January and June 2026, 215,023 light-duty fully electric and hybrid vehicles were registered, with growth six times higher than the traditional automotive market. In June alone, electrified vehicles reached 18% of all sales—a historic milestone showing the direction the market is heading.
But here's an important detail: while imported electric cars are getting more expensive due to tariff rate restructuring in July, electric micro-mobility remains the most accessible solution for those wanting to ride electric in daily urban life. Cities like Maringá already have adequate cycling infrastructure and an established market for electric scooters and e-bikes. This post analyzes the national landscape and what changes for your wallet.
The Numbers Defining 2026
The first half of 2026 was explosive. 55,961 electrified vehicles were registered in January and February alone, representing a 65.5% increase compared to the same period in 2025. The pace accelerated throughout the months, solidifying 16% market participation in the semester and 18% in June.
Supply also grew: from 294 electrified models available in the first half of 2025 to 350 in 2026. Fully electric vehicles jumped from 152 to 192 options—a 26% increase in one year. These numbers indicate that both manufacturers and importers are increasing investments in the segment.
Brazil's electrified vehicle fleet is estimated at approximately 700,000 units in 2026, with conservative projections of 3.7 million by 2035. Fully electric vehicles represent 25% of the current fleet.
Import Tariffs Rise: The Impact on Prices
In July 2026, a maximum 35% import tariff on imported electric and hybrid vehicles went into effect, ending the gradual rate restructuring schedule that began in 2024. Previously, tariffs ranged between 25% for BEVs (battery electric vehicles), 28% for PHEVs (plug-in hybrids), and 30% for HEVs (hybrid electric vehicles).
Estimates indicate price increases of up to 8% for imported vehicles. For those considering purchasing a foreign electric car, the timing just got more expensive. The measure primarily impacts European and Asian models sold in Brazil.
The goal of the maximum tariff is to strengthen local production of electrified vehicles and reduce import dependency. In practice, this means buyers tend to seek more affordable alternatives—and this is where micro-mobility gains prominence.
Micro-mobility: Your Entry Door to Electric Riding
While imported electric cars got more expensive, e-scooters continue offering the best cost-benefit ratio for 100% electric urban mobility. E-scooter prices range between R$ 1,800 to R$ 3,500 for entry-level models and R$ 4,000 to R$ 8,000 for premium models (approximately USD 360–700 for entry-level and USD 800–1,600 for premium).
A typical electric scooter offers range between 20 and 40 km per charge, with recharging costs of just R$ 0.10 to R$ 0.30 per full charge (based on Maringá's electricity rate of approximately R$ 0.85/kWh or USD 0.17/kWh). Recharge time varies from 3 to 6 hours for standard batteries.
For those commuting daily in a flat city like Maringá, with bike lanes established on major avenues like Gastão Vidigal and Horácio Racanello, an electric scooter solves the first and last mile problem with much lower investment than an automobile.
Clear Regulation: How to Ride Legally in Maringá
Maringá Municipal Law nº 11.981/2025 set precise rules for electric scooters in the city. The main speed limitations are:
- Bike lanes and cycle paths: maximum 20 km/h (12 mph)
- Sidewalks, plazas, and parks: maximum 6 km/h (4 mph)
- Mandatory equipment: helmet, bell, and nighttime lighting
- Minimum age: 16 years old (no adult supervision required)
- Prohibited areas: highways, pedestrian-only zones during peak hours
The regulation is clear and balanced—it protects pedestrians while allowing scooter riders to use the city's infrastructure legally and safely.