Amid concerns about the potential impact of petrol blended with 20% ethanol (E20), Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Friday assured that any increase in ethanol blending beyond 20% will be done gradually and only after all necessary testing is completed to ensure it doesn’t negatively affect vehicles.
“India already has standards in place. Based on these, ARAI will conduct all the necessary tests. If the tests are successful, ARAI will send its proposal to the Petroleum Ministry. Once the ministry is satisfied, it will recommend it to the Cabinet and the Prime Minister for approval. Only then will a final decision be taken. So, there is no confusion about the process,” he said.
Gadkari said this while speaking in a fireside chat with Autocar Editor Hormazd Sorabajee at the 65th Annual Session of Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA).
As India advances its ambitious ethanol-blending program, the transition to E20 fuel has raised concerns among consumers, particularly those who own older vehicles. A primary worry is that potential damage and performance issues resulting from the use of E20 fuel may not be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty, leaving owners to bear the cost of repairs.
However, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, ARAI and OMCs have come forward to state that customers can safely use E20, highlighting how the shift supports the country’s economy, benefits farmers, and strengthens energy independence.
Gadkari also refuted allegations that E20 fuel impacts vehicle life as well as causes a significant drop in mileage. He stated that those allegations against the ethanol blending policy are part of “a paid propaganda by some lobbies.” While dismissing the social media backlash as politically motivated rather than technically grounded, he said the allegations were a “political campaign” aimed at targeting him personally.
On Thursday, Gadkari acknowledged that automobile companies had initially expressed concerns about E20 compatibility with existing vehicle engines. “The concerned auto companies, ARAI and others submitted their findings. The Supreme Court also took their stand,” Gadkari said.
So far, no decision has been taken by the government for increasing ethanol blending beyond 20%.