Gadkari Defends E20 Fuel Despite Admitting Mileage Drop in Parliament

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari informed Parliament on Thursday that petrol blended with 20% ethanol (E20) can reduce a vehicle's fuel economy by 2% to 6%, depending on the vehicle category and its age. The statement was made in a written reply to the Lok Sabha, where the minister also emphasised that extensive testing had found no engine failures attributable to the use of E20 fuel. The government continues to promote ethanol blending as part of its strategy to reduce fossil fuel dependence and lower vehicular emissions.

According to Gadkari, while E20 may lead to a modest reduction in fuel efficiency, it also offers several performance and environmental benefits. He said vehicles running on E20 experience better acceleration, improved ride quality, and produce approximately 30% lower carbon emissions compared with those using E10 fuel, which contains 10% ethanol. The government views the shift towards higher ethanol blending as an important step in reducing carbon emissions and supporting India's energy security goals.

The minister informed Parliament that the impact of E20 fuel was assessed through a joint study conducted by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL). The study evaluated the effects of E20 on BS-III, BS-IV and BS-VI petrol-powered two-wheelers and four-wheelers. It included standard certification tests as well as customised testing protocols developed in consultation with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

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Referring to the study's findings, Gadkari stated that although fuel efficiency may decline by 2% to 6%, engine durability tests conducted on dynamometers and on-road vehicle trials did not reveal any failures caused by the use of E20 fuel. The government has maintained that the nationwide rollout of E20 has been implemented in a phased manner and is supported by extensive technical evaluation to ensure compatibility with eligible vehicles.

The introduction of E20 petrol has, however, drawn criticism from opposition parties and consumer groups. Critics have raised concerns about the compatibility of older vehicles not specifically designed for higher ethanol blends and have questioned whether prolonged use could lead to increased maintenance costs or fuel system issues. They have also sought greater clarity on liability in cases where consumers experience engine-related problems after switching to E20 fuel.

Responding to these concerns, the government has reiterated that the transition has been carefully planned and backed by scientific testing. Automobile manufacturers have also stated that they will continue to honour warranty claims for vehicles approved for E20 use. Nevertheless, opposition parties have continued to seek greater transparency regarding vehicle compatibility, consumer safeguards and the long-term impact of ethanol-blended fuel as India expands its biofuel programme.

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