I believe one of the greatest strengths of the energy transition lies in its ability to improve people’s lives through practical, everyday solutions. That is why the partnership between Be8 and Coleurb holds such special significance for me. For the first time, part of Passo Fundo’s public transportation fleet is operating entirely on Be8 BeVant®, a biofuel developed by our team that has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 99% compared with conventional fossil diesel. More than a technological achievement, this initiative delivers a direct benefit to the community by providing a public transportation system that is better aligned with today’s environmental challenges.
In the initial phase of the project, two Coleurb buses, one Mercedes-Benz and one Volkswagen, began operating with the new biofuel. The agreement has an initial term of six months and will allow us to evaluate operational performance, environmental benefits, and the potential to expand the initiative to a larger portion of the fleet. The launch also marked the introduction of four new buses acquired by the company, reinforcing a shared commitment to fleet modernization, innovation, and sustainability in Passo Fundo’s public transportation system.
What makes this initiative even more significant is the fact that Be8 BeVant® can be used in its pure form in existing diesel engines, without requiring technical modifications or additional infrastructure investments. This means emissions can be reduced immediately while maintaining the operational efficiency of the vehicles. The partnership also demonstrates that decarbonization does not need to be limited to large-scale, long-term projects. It can begin today through technologies that are readily available, economically viable, and capable of delivering immediate results for businesses, governments, and public transportation operators.
For me, this initiative also carries a special symbolic value. Be8 BeVant® was developed and patented by professionals at our Passo Fundo facility, the city where Be8 was founded and which continues to serve as one of the company’s main innovation hubs. Seeing a technology created here contribute to making public transportation more sustainable reinforces my belief that Brazil has the capability to lead the development of global solutions for the energy transition. When businesses, public institutions, and society work together, we demonstrate that it is possible to reduce emissions, improve people’s quality of life, and build a more sustainable future without compromising efficiency or competitiveness.