India may reconsider its decision to make E20 petrol the only fuel option at stations across the country, as concerns grow over its impact on older vehicles and two-wheelers.
The government’s Chief Economic Adviser, V. Anantha Nageswaran, has suggested bringing back lower-ethanol blends such as E10 alongside E20. He said offering drivers a choice could ease concerns, reduce overall ethanol consumption and give older vehicles greater protection while retrofit programs catch up.
India introduced E20—petrol blended with 20% ethanol—to reduce pollution, cut crude oil imports and support the domestic agricultural sector. Since April 1, it has been the standard petrol blend available nationwide.
However, India’s Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has previously rejected calls to offer E10 or pure petrol alongside E20, citing the operational and logistical challenges of maintaining multiple fuel grades.
The debate highlights the challenge of balancing India’s push for cleaner, domestically produced fuels with the needs of its huge existing vehicle fleet.
Indian Oil Corporation continues to back E20, saying the fuel will help reduce crude import dependence while supporting the country’s agricultural economy.
Note by Alessandro Bazzoni