Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Thursday said vehicles running on E20 petrol may witness a 2 to 6 per cent drop in fuel efficiency, but stressed that there is no evidence of engine damage or failures caused by the ethanol-blended fuel.
Responding to a question in the Lok Sabha, Gadkari said extensive testing has shown that while mileage may vary depending on a vehicle’s category and age, E20 fuel remains safe for engines. “The fuel efficiency of vehicles may be reduced by 2 to 6 per cent depending on the vehicle category and vintage. The tests for engine durability on a dynamometer and vehicle tests on road have not shown any failures due to E20,” he said.
The Union minister also highlighted the environmental benefits of the fuel, stating that E20 offers improved vehicle performance in some areas. According to Gadkari, the ethanol blend can enhance acceleration, provide a smoother driving experience and generate around 30 per cent lower carbon emissions compared to E10 petrol.
Explaining the government’s findings, Gadkari said a comprehensive study involving the Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL), the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) examined the impact of E20 fuel on BS-III, BS-IV and BS-VI petrol-powered two-wheelers and four-wheelers. He said the evaluation included both certification tests and customised testing protocols developed in consultation with automobile manufacturers.
The minister informed Parliament that E15+ petrol has been in use across the country for more than three-and-a-half years, while E19-E20 fuel has been supplied for over two-and-a-half years. During this period, more than 20 crore two-wheelers and over 3 crore petrol cars have been using these fuels without any verified reports of widespread engine failure or vehicle breakdown.
Reiterating the government’s stand, Gadkari said, “Manufacturer service data confirm that there is no abnormal corrosion, wear or reduction in vehicle life due to E20 fuel.” He added that automobile manufacturers continue to honour warranty claims for vehicles using E20 petrol, reinforcing confidence in the fuel’s reliability.
Debate Over E20 Fuel Continues
The rollout of E20 petrol, which contains 20 per cent ethanol and 80 per cent petrol, has triggered criticism from opposition parties and consumer groups. Critics have expressed concerns over its compatibility with older vehicles, possible reduction in mileage, higher maintenance costs and responsibility in the event of engine-related issues.
However, the Centre has maintained that the nationwide transition has been implemented in phases and is supported by scientific testing and industry consultation. According to Gadkari, India’s Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme began as a pilot project in 2001, with E5 fuel introduced in 2006. He noted that ethanol blending, which stood at just 1.53 per cent in 2013-14, has increased steadily after the expansion of production capacity, infrastructure and the required regulatory framework.
