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Brazil Delays Biodiesel Hike to 16% as Engine Tests Begin This Month

Officials require proven engine performance plus CNPE approval before any change.

Overview

  • Although the fuel law mapped yearly increases, the government will hold the diesel blend at 15% until new engine trials verify that a 16% mix works as intended.
  • Testing will be financed with about R$30 million from the National Fund for Science and Technology, supplemented by private contributions.
  • The test network includes 11 mechanical labs, five physico‑chemical labs, and six benches that measure performance and flag failures in hydraulic and mechanical parts.
  • The government aims to take a B16 decision to the National Energy Policy Council by year‑end, with any approval contingent on confirmed technical viability.
  • A separate plan to raise anhydrous ethanol in gasoline to 32% has completed viability testing and now awaits a CNPE vote under the same cautious approach.