Ethanol-blended petrol safe for vehicles, helps save Rs 1.4 lakh crore: Nitin Gadkari

The use of ethanol-blended petrol has led to savings of more than Rs 1.40 lakh crore in foreign exchange while giving a major boost to farmers, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari informed the Lok Sabha on Thursday.

Addressing concerns raised by several members, Gadkari said extensive testing has shown no adverse impact on vehicles running on ethanol-blended fuel. He emphasised that the rollout of E20 petrol marks a significant step toward a cleaner and greener transport ecosystem.

No vehicle issues, farmers benefit, imports reduced

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Gadkari said ethanol blending not only reduces pollution but also cuts India’s dependence on expensive crude imports. Farmers, meanwhile, have earned nearly Rs 40,000 crore by supplying sugarcane, maize and other raw materials for ethanol production.

Responding to queries on vehicle compatibility with E10 and E20 fuels, he said it is the responsibility of automobile manufacturers to clearly declare whether a model is E20-compatible, and this must be displayed through a visible sticker.

Also Read: E20 Update: Industry seeks faster ethanol blending, pan-India flex-fuel vehicle adoption

The minister clarified that vehicles sold before April 1, 2023, are compatible with E10, while those sold after this date are built with materials compliant with E20 standards. Safety norms for E20 fuel have been established through BIS specifications and Automotive Industry Standards.

Gadkari added that testing has shown no issues with drivability, startability, or the compatibility of metal and plastic components in vehicles using ethanol-blended fuels. There is also no need to phase out or retrofit older vehicles, he told the House. A study by ARAI, IOCL and SIAM found that routine servicing is sufficient to manage normal wear and tear associated with ethanol-blended fuels.

"EBP Programme has also resulted in savings of approximately 790 lakh metric tonne of net CO2 reduction and substitution of more than 260 lakh metric tonnes of crude oil," the minister stated.