Opposition leaders raised several questions about the Union Government’s E20 blended fuel scheme, after Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s call to amplify the matter. The government has responded in Rajya Sabha, saying that there no plans to go beyond 20% ethanol blended petrol.
Rajya Sabha MP from Keralam PP Suneer questioned the government whether it had any plans of going beyond E20, up to E25 (25% blend). He also asked the government what its stand was on the reports that people are facing several vehicular concerns due to the use of E20.
In response, the government laid out a comprehensive set of plans for the fuel scheme. The government categorically denied that there were discussions held until now on rolling out E25. According to the Centre, any move to E25 would only happen after more scientific studies and consultation with automakers, oil companies, and research institutions.
On the E20 rollout, the government said that it was the product of a long, tested process involving the NITI Aayog, automakers and testing bodies like the Automative Research Association of India (ARAI). The government claims they ran lab and real-world tests covering things like engine wear, corrosion, startability and emissions.
The government also pushed back on the question on E20 concerns for vehicles. They responded that over 20 crore two-wheelers and 3 crore petrol cars have used the blended fuel without any widespread engine failure. The government also claims that manufacturers are still honouring vehicle warranties even for cars running on E20, which the government treats as a sign of confidence in the fuel’s safety. According to the government, no abnormal corrosion or reduced vehicle lifespan has been found.
However, in what was a partial admission of concern, the government did concede that older vehicles designed for E10 fuel might see a 3-5% drop in fuel efficiency on E20. The government called it a minor issue and said that the mileage is also affected by driving habits, conditions and maintenance- not just ethanol use.
E20 petrol – a blend of 20 per cent ethanol and 80 per cent petrol – is now the only petrol sold at fuel stations across India and that has real implications if you’re shopping for a new car right now. Since the nationwide rollout completed last year, buyers can no longer choose E10 or pure petrol at regular pumps, which means factoring E20 compatibility into your decision isn’t optional anymore.
Government-backed manufacturer statements say standard warranties remain valid on E20 fuel and insurance claims aren’t affected either. Where it does matter is mileage – testing has shown real-world drops ranging from roughly 4 per cent to as high as 12-13 per cent depending on the model and engine calibration.