Founded in 1925, General Motors Brazil (GM Brazil) has played a pivotal role in shaping the industrial economy of South America over the last century.
Starting in a rented São Paulo warehouse, GM assembled Chevrolets with imported parts, introducing cutting-edge innovations like an electric self-starter to a nation on the brink of urbanization.
As Brazil’s economy grew, GM expanded operations, opening factories, testing grounds, and design centers to develop vehicles tailored to local needs.
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The company became a trailblazer in engineering, creating innovations like the first Chevrolet crew-cab pickup, the bi-fuel engine, and the flex-fuel engine that runs on both gasoline and ethanol.
Iconic models like the 3100 Brasil pickup, the Opala SS coupe, and the Onix hatchback became staples of Brazilian life, while GM’s legacy extended globally with contributions like the Meriva minivan for Europe and the Hummer H3T for the U.S. Motorsports history was made with the Coopersucar Formula 1 car, developed for Brazilian driver Emerson Fittipaldi.
GM’s influence goes far beyond cars. It popularized Frigidaire refrigerators, contributed to Brazil’s defense during World War II by producing essential military equipment, and pivoted operations during the COVID-19 pandemic to produce masks and life-saving gear.
With a legacy of nearly 20 million vehicles produced, GM Brazil accounts for 20% of the nation’s automotive output. The São Caetano do Sul plant, the country’s oldest continuously operating car factory, remains a symbol of this enduring presence.
Today, GM Brazil is entering a transformative era. According to Santiago Chamorro, President of GM South America, the focus is on smarter, more connected, and sustainable vehicles.
With Brazil’s leadership in renewable energy, GM’s push toward hybrid and electric vehicles aligns with its vision of zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion. Recent investments have enabled the production of over 350,000 vehicles in 2024, solidifying GM Brazil’s role as Chevrolet’s third-largest market globally and positioning it as a key player in the future of sustainable mobility.
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