New Delhi, July 28: The Central Government has informed Parliament that it has not conducted any assessment to determine how many vehicles on Indian roads are compatible with E20 petrol, a fuel blend containing 20% ethanol and 80% petrol.

In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas stated that no study has been undertaken by the Ministry of Heavy Industries to estimate the number or percentage of vehicles capable of operating on E20 fuel. The clarification comes amid concerns over the increasing availability of E20 petrol across the country.

Despite the absence of such data, the government said the rollout of E20 fuel has been supported by extensive scientific studies, laboratory testing, and field trials carried out in collaboration with automobile manufacturers and research institutions. According to the Centre, these studies have evaluated engine performance, emissions, fuel efficiency, corrosion resistance, durability, and overall vehicle compatibility.

The government maintained that E20 petrol is safe for vehicles designed or certified to use the higher ethanol blend and complies with established technical standards. It added that manufacturers have been encouraged to produce E20-compatible vehicles as part of India's transition to cleaner and more sustainable transportation.

The issue has gained attention following reports from some vehicle owners claiming reduced fuel efficiency and expressing concerns about the impact of E20 petrol on older vehicles. Members of Parliament also sought clarification on whether owners of non-compatible vehicles had been adequately informed about the possible effects of using the fuel.

Responding to these concerns, the Centre reiterated that the National Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme is aimed at reducing India's dependence on imported crude oil, improving energy security, lowering carbon emissions, and providing greater market opportunities for farmers through increased ethanol production.

The government further stated that India's ethanol production capacity is sufficient to meet the current blending target without compromising food security. It also clarified that there is no proposal at present to increase the ethanol content in petrol beyond 20%.

Additionally, the Centre informed Parliament that premium-grade petrol marketed by public sector oil companies will continue to remain free from ethanol blending, ensuring an alternative fuel option for consumers whose vehicles may not be suitable for E20 fuel.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to expanding the use of cleaner fuels while continuing to work with stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition to ethanol-blended petrol across the country.

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