E20 Ethanol Fuel: Will Your Non-E20 Car Be Phased Out? Here’s What Government Has to Say

Since the launch of E20 fuel, concerns have arisen about the impact of the higher ethanol blend on older vehicles that are not compatible with it. Addressing a key aspect of this issue, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, in a written reply in Parliament, clarified the stance of the Narendra Modi government.

E20 petrol is a fuel blend containing 20% ethanol and 80% petrol (gasoline), designed to reduce reliance on crude oil, lower emissions, and support agriculture, with ethanol derived from renewable plant sources like sugarcane.

No Phase-Out Required for Non-Compliant Vehicles

The Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said there will be no need to phase out older or non-compliant vehicles. He added that regular maintenance and servicing are enough to manage normal wear and tear, so these vehicles can continue to be used safely. He also emphasized that proper servicing helps maintain vehicle performance and reduces environmental impact, allowing owners to use their vehicles for a longer time without mandatory replacements.

The Minister cited studies by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), Indian Oil Corporation Ltd., and the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) to support this, showing that proper servicing can maintain vehicle performance and reduce environmental impact.

The clarification on E20 fuel came after MP Jagdish Chandra Barma Basunia requested information on whether there had been any announcement regarding a retrofit program for non-compliant vehicles.

E20 Ethanol Blend: Safety and Performance

E20, a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% gasoline, can improve the fuel’s octane rating, which may enhance engine efficiency and reduce knocking. The blend can also lower some harmful emissions like carbon monoxide, though it may increase others, such as acetaldehyde.

In response to MP Derek O’Brien earlier this month, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari clarified that government-backed studies show no major performance issues or component damage from using 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20). 

Any Compensation Fund Planned?

He also confirmed that no compensation fund for E20-related damage is being considered, noting that studies show vehicles are able to run safely on E20 petrol. This comes even as some vehicle owners and lawmakers continue to express concerns about potential engine or component issues, highlighting the government’s confidence in the safety and reliability of the ethanol blend.

Environmental Benefits

• Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Ethanol produces fewer emissions compared to petrol because it burns cleaner, releasing less carbon dioxide and harmful pollutants. Using E20 can contribute to reducing the overall carbon footprint of vehicles. This makes it an environmentally friendlier fuel option, especially in urban areas with high traffic.
• Higher Octane Rating: The higher octane rating of ethanol helps prevent engine knocking, allowing for smoother and more efficient combustion. This improves engine longevity and overall performance. Vehicles running on higher-octane fuel can also achieve better fuel efficiency under certain conditions.
• Effective RON 95: E20 delivers a research octane number (RON) of 95, which is comparable to premium petrol. This ensures that engines designed for RON 95 fuel can operate safely and efficiently with E20. It supports optimal performance without compromising engine health or power output.

Mileage Loss Due To E20 Fuel?

Nitin Gadkari said that mileage can drop due to several reasons, not just fuel quality. Driving habits, regular maintenance, correct tyre pressure, proper wheel alignment, and air-conditioner usage all affect fuel efficiency. 

He added that detailed testing was conducted to assess vehicle performance, including how smoothly the engine runs, how easily the vehicle starts, and whether the fuel affects engine components. The results showed no technical issues or damage, indicating that the fuel is safe and performs reliably under normal driving conditions.

Compatibility of Vehicles with E20 Fuel

Gadkari explained that vehicles sold before April 1, 2023, were designed to run on E10 fuel, while those sold after that date are built to handle E20 fuel. Older vehicles can still use E20, but they were not originally designed for the higher ethanol content.

Written by Sridhar J 

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