Mar 17 • 02:00 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil Folha (PT)

Consortium of passenger cars and light commercial vehicles grows amid high interest rates

The automotive sector in Brazil is witnessing growth in vehicle consortiums as consumers turn to alternatives in response to high interest rates.

High interest rates in Brazil have significantly impacted the automotive market, leading to a slower growth in vehicle sales. However, this adverse economic climate has also resulted in a notable increase in the vehicle consortium sector, which allows consumers to plan their purchases and avoid high interest fees. With the Central Bank's Selic rate stagnant at 15% per annum, consumers are increasingly seeking out consortia as a viable alternative.

According to the Brazilian Association of Consortium Administrators (Abac), the segment for light vehicles saw 1.91 million new memberships in 2025, marking a 9.1% increase from 2024. This uptick in consortium participation underlines a strategic shift among consumers towards more budget-friendly purchasing options amidst expensive credit conditions. Furthermore, the total credits released reached R$ 53.2 billion last year, culminating in 764,100 successful bids, reflecting a 7.9% rise compared to the previous year.

In contrast, the overall sales of passenger cars and light commercial vehicles grew by only 2.6%, resulting in 2.55 million vehicles registered in 2025. This disparity indicates that while the consortium model is flourishing, traditional vehicle sales are still hampered by the economic climate. The situation illustrates a broader trend in consumer behavior where individuals are becoming more cautious and resourceful in their purchasing strategies, opting for alternatives that provide better financial stability during turbulent economic times.

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