Columbia Medium and Heavy Duty Truck Market Overview, 2030

The Colombia medium and heavy-duty truck market has undergone a notable transformation since 2021, shaped by new regulatory frameworks, fuel standards, and rising demand for zero-emission vehicles. The government introduced Euro VI-equivalent emission standards, which became mandatory for new vehicles from January 2023, with older vehicles required to comply by 2035. The transition included stricter controls on sulfur content in diesel, mandating ultra-low sulfur diesel of 15 ppm in 2023, and further reduction to 10 ppm by 2025. Technological upgrades have included onboard diagnostics (OBD) systems, e mission control modules, and the integration of smart fleet monitoring solutions. Innovation in battery-electric and natural gas trucks has accelerated, especially for fleets operating in Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali, where low-emission zones are expanding. Law 1964 requires that at least 30% of public fleet purchases consist of electric vehicles by 2025, encouraging manufacturers to shift production toward clean alternatives. The Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, along with ANLA, manages emission certification, which includes type approval through ONAC-accredited labs. Colombia’s regulations align closely with EU norms but differ from countries like Mexico, which still enforces Euro V in several states. Meanwhile, Colombia provides tax incentives such as zero import duties on electric trucks, 5% for CNG variants, and income tax deductions for green investments. The Decree 2051 and Law 1715/2014 further offer VAT exemptions and accelerated depreciation for clean technologies. These government policies impact market competition by reducing the cost burden on compliant manufacturers, attracting foreign investment, and increasing domestic adoption of compliant trucks.

According to the research report ""Colombia Medium and Heavy-Duty Truck Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the Colombia Medium and Heavy-Duty Truck market was valued at more than USD 1.04 Billion in 2025. This market is driven by Colombia’s enforcement of Euro VI-equivalent emission norms, infrastructure-led demand, and fiscal incentives that are steadily reshaping the landscape for production, distribution, and procurement. As the government mandates cleaner technologies, domestic assembly lines in Cundinamarca, Antioquia, and Valle del Cauca are being upgraded for low-emission models. Local sourcing of truck components remains moderate, with engines, transmissions, and lithium battery packs primarily imported from Brazil, the U.S., or China. The biggest risk in raw material sourcing is the heavy reliance on imported diesel filters, semiconductors, and driveline components, which exposes manufacturers to currency fluctuations and port bottlenecks. Colombia’s production is limited but growing, with CKD (completely knocked down) assembly models favored due to lower tariffs under trade agreements. Distribution is handled through regional dealer networks with presence in major logistics corridors like Bogotá–Buenaventura, Medellín–Cartagena, and Cali–Barranquilla. Sales are influenced by seasonal demand peaks in agriculture and construction cycles. Growth in mining and road-building has increased demand for dump and articulated trucks, while e-commerce logistics has pushed urban demand for mid-range rigid trucks. Emerging trends include the integration of telematics, predictive maintenance, and smart route planning systems. Mergers and acquisitions, such as cross-border collaborations with Brazilian OEMs and Chilean logistics firms, have brought new financing, brand reach, and technology access. Leading players maintain dominance by offering full-service lease options, local financing, and driver training services. Startups in Colombia are entering through EV retrofitting kits and mobile diagnostics, supported by venture funds focused on transport decarbonization.

In Colombia, the medium and heavy-duty truck segment is defined based on gross vehicle weight (GVW), with medium trucks ranging between 3.5 to 16 tonnes and heavy trucks above 16 tonnes. Medium trucks are predominantly used for urban and intercity logistics, food distribution, consumer goods transport, and public utility services. These trucks are favored for their maneuverability in congested cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali. Popular models in this range include cab-over-engine configurations from brands like Chevrolet, JAC, Hino, and Dongfeng, many of which are assembled locally from CKD kits. On the other hand, heavy-duty trucks dominate long-haul transportation, construction, mining, and port-to-inland freight movement, particularly on routes such as Barranquilla–Bogotá or Buenaventura–Cali. Brands like Kenworth, Scania, and Volvo maintain a strong presence in this category, offering articulated tractors, tippers, and high-capacity rigid bodies suited for Colombian terrain and road gradients. The heavy-duty class is also seeing increased adoption of CNG variants for cost efficiency and compliance with emission regulations. Companies offer both imported and locally assembled models with Euro V or VI engines, hydraulic retarders, and advanced braking systems to ensure safety in mountainous regions. Promotional campaigns in this market focus on cost-per-kilometer efficiency, fuel savings, and ease of maintenance, with dealerships offering lease financing, driver training, and spare parts supply through regional hubs. Sales of medium trucks are supported by fleet replacement programs in the public sector, while heavy trucks benefit from investment in road infrastructure, mining expansion, and agricultural exports. Colombian manufacturers and dealers also tap into demand from small and mid-sized fleet operators, offering bundled services such as maintenance contracts and telematics packages.

In Colombia’s medium and heavy-duty truck market, propulsion types are segmented primarily into internal combustion engines (ICE), electric, and other alternative fuel systems such as CNG and hybrid variants. ICE trucks, mainly diesel-powered, remain dominant across logistics, construction, and industrial sectors due to their proven reliability, widespread service networks, and compatibility with Colombia’s mountainous road network. Brands like International, Hino, Scania, and Kenworth continue to supply Euro V-compliant ICE models, while Euro VI-compliant vehicles have gained ground since 2023 under new emission norms. Fuel efficiency improvements, coupled with telematics integration and optimized engine control systems, have helped ICE models remain viable, particularly for long-haul and high-load applications. Electric trucks, though in early stages, are gaining momentum especially in medium-duty urban logistics and government-backed fleet operations. Models such as BYD T8, JAC E-Trucks, and local conversions are being piloted in Bogotá and Medellín through public procurement and last-mile delivery firms. Colombia’s Law 1964 supports EV adoption by mandating public fleet electrification and offering tax exemptions, free circulation zones, and toll discounts. CNG-powered trucks, categorized under other, are emerging as a cost-effective alternative for medium-haul operations, driven by Colombia’s domestic natural gas reserves and price stability. OEMs like Scania and local assembler Superpolo have introduced CNG options for fleets operating in air-quality-controlled cities. Promotional efforts in the propulsion segment focus on total cost of ownership, emissions reduction, and maintenance savings, with companies offering bundled energy solutions and depot charging setups. Compliance costs differ: ICE vehicles require emissions and onboard diagnostics certification, while electric trucks face higher upfront costs but benefit from reduced regulatory fees and faster clearance under green vehicle policies. CNG trucks fall in between, benefiting from moderate tax breaks and infrastructure support.

Rigid trucks make up a large share of urban and regional transport operations, especially in FMCG distribution, beverage delivery, utility services, and intra-city logistics. These vehicles offer integrated chassis-cab configurations with fixed loading units, making them suitable for cities like Bogotá and Medellín where maneuverability, fuel economy, and compact turning radii are essential. Tractor-trailers and articulated trucks dominate the long-haul and interdepartmental freight movement sectors, handling bulk cargo across major routes such as Cartagena–Cali, Buenaventura–Bogotá, and Medellín–Barranquilla. They are essential in industries like manufacturing, agricultural export, and container logistics. Most units in this category are configured for 6x4 or 6x2 drivetrains and comply with Euro V or VI emission norms, with models from Volvo, Scania, International, and Kenworth widely present. Tipper or dump trucks are crucial in the mining, construction, and infrastructure sectors, especially in resource-rich areas like Cesar, Antioquia, and La Guajira. These trucks transport aggregates, coal, and construction debris, often under challenging terrain and over unpaved routes. Their design emphasizes hydraulic lifting systems, reinforced axles, and high torque output to meet rugged demands. The Other category includes specialized truck types such as fuel tankers, concrete mixers, reefer trucks, and mobile workshops each tailored to niche applications in oil and gas, food logistics, and public sector operations. Body type selection in Colombia is driven by cargo type, route gradient, fuel efficiency, and emission compliance. Distribution channels include direct OEM sales, dealer networks, and public tenders, with strong aftersales support and financing schemes. Growth in construction, mining, and e-commerce has led to increased demand for body-type-specific vehicles, pushing manufacturers to offer customizable, modular, and emission-compliant solutions across all categories.

The logistics and transportation sector remains the largest user, with demand stemming from last-mile delivery, regional cargo transport, and intercity distribution. Major corridors like Bogotá–Cali and Medellín–Cartagena rely heavily on medium trucks for FMCG, pharmaceuticals, and retail goods, while articulated and heavy-duty trucks support port-based freight operations and e-commerce growth. Construction and mining industries are key consumers of tipper trucks, tractor-trailers, and off-road vehicles, particularly in regions like Antioquia, Cesar, and La Guajira, where cement, gravel, and coal transport drive equipment needs. These industries require high-torque, rugged trucks with reinforced suspensions and often operate on demanding terrain, making durability a key purchase factor. Agriculture and forestry sectors, active in Valle del Cauca, Tolima, and Santander, use medium trucks for farm produce movement, raw timber logistics, and supply chain transport, especially during seasonal harvests. Many trucks here are customized with cargo enclosures, refrigeration, or multipurpose beds. Utility and municipal bodies in major cities use rigid trucks for sanitation, waste collection, road maintenance, and emergency response. These fleets are increasingly adopting CNG or electric trucks to comply with local air quality regulations and sustainability mandates under Colombia’s Green Growth Policy. Other niche applications include the oil and gas sector, beverage logistics, and mobile clinics in remote areas, requiring specialized vehicle bodies and durable drivetrains. Fleet operators often purchase trucks through public auctions, direct OEM contracts, or leasing programs bundled with service plans. Vehicle selection across all end users is influenced by total cost of ownership, aftersales support, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance. Government incentives for electric and CNG vehicles are beginning to shift public procurement and private fleet renewal strategies, especially in urban and regulated zones.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Medium and Heavy Duty Truck Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Vehicle Class
• Medium (3.5 to 16 Tonnes)
• Heavy (16 Tonnes and Above)

By Propulsion
• ICE
• Electric
• Other

By Body Type
• Rigid Trucks
• Tractor-Trailers / Articulated Truck
• Tipper / Dump Trucks
• Other

By end users
• Logistic transportation
• Construction and Mining
• Agriculture and Forestry
• Utility And Municipal
• Other Show more