100 Things to Love About Brazil (Part 6 of 10)

51. The Kombi

The Brazilian Kombi or Volkswagen bus isn't a relic from the 1960s and 70s, but a vehicle commonly seen on the road in Brazil today.  Due to few vehicles available that seat more than four passengers, the Kombi for many years was Brazil's equivalent to the U.S. minivan.  It is also popularly used as an alternative to a delivery truck.  The relatively inexpensive Kombi comes standard in white and no air conditioning.  The last one was manufactured in December 2013, ending a several decade run with the first Kombis sold in Brazil back in 1950!  It is arguably one of the most versatile vehicles ever made.

52.  Manual Transmission

The vast majority of vehicles in Brazil have manual transmission.  This means you get the full driving experience of maneuvering with both feet and both hands as you shift between gears.  Small chance of falling asleep at the wheel while you practice your video game skills in real life by avoiding potholes, speed bumps, and swerving motorcycles.      

53. Driver's License Test



Besides the standard vision, written, and driving tests used throughout the world to grant drivers their licenses, Brazil also requires a psychological exam.  This test includes several questions like the one in the picture above.  There is also a section where the tester simply draws several small dashes on a blank page and counts them up at the end.  I'm not sure what this tests for, but at least Brazil makes a good faith effort to put only sane people on the road, or at least the ones that can get through this strange test.

54. Speed Traps

It's rare in Brazil for a police officer to pull someone over for speeding.  In lieu of this, there are several electronic speed traps that one drives through that checks for speed.  The nice thing is that for several yards, there are warnings and even signs where the scanner is located.  If you do miss one, you receive your speeding ticket in the mail within a few weeks.

55. Speed Bumps

The ultimate enforcer of speed is the speed bump.  Greatly reducing the need for speed limits, police monitoring, and even stop signs; speed bumps and valetas (think speed bumps upside down), are inexpensive and highly effective at reducing speed.  If you doubt this, think of the time you hit one at full speed.  That's why speed bumps in Brazil are also called quebra molas literally meaning "spring breakers" or should I say, "suspension destroyers."

56. Roundabouts

Rotatorios are commonly found in both large cities and small towns.  They greatly eliminate the need for stoplights and even stop signs!

57. Fixed Fuel Prices

Unlike the States where fuel prices can change by the minute, the price of fuel in Brazil can remain fairly steady for several months.  There are a variety of fuel choices readily available at any gas station.  The majority of pickup trucks run on diesel while small to mid-size vehicles run on a combination of gasoline and ethanol.  Fuel is quite a bit more expensive in Brazil than in the States, but prices can appear less expensive since it is sold by the liter rather by the gallon.  (1 gallon = about 3.8 liters)

58. Full Service Gas Stations

No need to leave the comfort of your vehicle to get your gas tank filled in Brazil.  Each gas station employs several frentistas or gas station attendants that are there to fill your tank, wash your windshield and windows, and will even check your oil.  Now that is service.

59. Interstate Bus System

Cross-country travel?  Why not go by bus?  Brazil boasts an impressive system of buses.  Most interstate buses offer air conditioning, movies, and seats that recline over 45 degrees.  It is not unusual to travel by bus for 12, 24, or even 36 hours.  For many Brazilians on a budget, it is the way to travel.  

60. Local Transportation

Most Brazilian families own only one vehicle and many manage without.  Vehicles are around double the price that they are in the States, so in larger cities, individuals get around by city buses, and in smaller towns, it is common to bike to work or school.  Some grocery stores will even delivery your groceries right to your house for free.  Here is a picture of a small grocery store with its home delivery truck -- look, it's a kombi!