Oil marketing companies BPCL and HPCL reaffirmed E20 petrol quality amid allegations of excessive ethanol blending in Karnataka. Tests on 56 samples found an average ethanol content of 19.3 per cent, with all samples meeting prescribed specifications
Rahul Gandhi questioned the Centre over alleged excess ethanol blending in petrol after Karnataka tests reportedly found levels above 20 per cent in several samples. Oil marketing companies disputed the findings, maintaining that their E20 supplies meet prescribed standards.
The Congress has demanded an immediate review of the E20 fuel policy, alleging that ethanol blending has contributed to higher food and travel costs. Jairam Ramesh also sought non-ethanol fuel options, citing concerns over mileage, vehicle compatibility and consumer choice
The Petroleum Ministry has assured consumers that E20 petrol supplied through the OMC network meets prescribed quality standards. Nationwide testing found fuel quality within limits, while OMCs have strengthened surveillance, laboratory testing and quality checks across the supply chain
AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal alleged the Centre plans to expand ethanol blending to diesel and aviation turbine fuel after introducing E20 petrol. He urged people to postpone buying new vehicles and reiterated concerns over ethanol-blended fuel and vehicle compatibility
The government told the Rajya Sabha that E20 petrol offers better acceleration, improved ride quality and lower carbon emissions than E10 fuel. It said extensive studies and field data found no evidence of engine corrosion, abnormal wear or reduced vehicle life
The Centre informed the Rajya Sabha that E20 petrol may cause a marginal 3–5 percent drop in fuel efficiency for older E10-designed vehicles, but confirmed there is no evidence of widespread engine damage or breakdowns linked to ethanol blending
The Petroleum Ministry said E20 petrol may lower fuel economy by 3–5 per cent in some vehicles but offers cleaner combustion, better performance and lower emissions. It maintained extensive testing confirmed vehicle compatibility before nationwide implementation of the ethanol-blending programme
The Centre has dismissed media reports claiming Bhutan rejected an Indian proposal to import E20 petrol, stating that no such offer was made by Indian oil marketing companies and that there is no proposal to export ethanol-blended fuel to Bhutan.
The rollout of E20 petrol has raised concerns among Hyderabad motorists, with many fearing corrosion and reduced mileage. While mechanics say it is too early to assess long-term effects, several motorists want the option to choose between different fuel blends.
India rolls out E20 petrol from April 1. Here’s how it impacts mileage, engine performance, older vehicles, and what experts and critics are saying about the new fuel policy.
