New Delhi, Aug. 1: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has reaffirmed the Centre's confidence in the nationwide rollout of E20 ethanol-blended petrol, informing Parliament that extensive scientific studies and field evaluations have found no evidence that the fuel causes engine damage or mechanical failures in vehicles.

Responding to questions raised by Members of Parliament regarding the impact of E20 fuel on automobiles, Gadkari said the government has relied on detailed laboratory testing, durability assessments and real-world vehicle trials before expanding the use of ethanol-blended petrol across the country. According to him, the findings consistently indicate that E20 fuel is safe for use in compatible vehicles and does not adversely affect engine performance.

The minister acknowledged that motorists may experience a slight reduction in fuel efficiency while using E20 petrol. He stated that studies have shown a mileage decline of around 2 to 6 per cent, depending on factors such as the vehicle model, engine design and manufacturing year. However, he clarified that lower mileage should not be interpreted as engine damage or a technical defect, emphasizing that it is a normal characteristic of ethanol-blended fuel.

Gadkari informed the House that comprehensive engine durability tests conducted using advanced laboratory equipment, including dynamometer testing, along with large-scale on-road trials, have demonstrated that E20 fuel performs safely under various driving conditions. He said the government has also taken into account practical operational experience from different regions before promoting the fuel on a wider scale.

Addressing concerns about older vehicles, the minister noted that certain BS-III vehicles, particularly those manufactured before 2016, may require replacement of specific rubber components, hoses or gaskets that are not fully compatible with higher ethanol blends. He stressed that these modifications are related to material compatibility rather than engine reliability and do not indicate that E20 fuel damages vehicle engines.

The Centre has been actively promoting ethanol blending as part of its long-term strategy to reduce India's dependence on imported crude oil, improve energy security and support domestic sugarcane farmers through increased ethanol production. Officials believe that higher ethanol blending can also contribute to lowering vehicular emissions and reducing the country's overall carbon footprint.

The government's ethanol blending programme has gradually expanded over the past few years, with automobile manufacturers introducing E20-compatible vehicles in line with updated fuel standards. Consumers have, however, expressed concerns about fuel economy and the suitability of older vehicles for the new fuel.

Reiterating the government's position, Gadkari said there is no scientific evidence linking E20 petrol to engine failures. He assured Parliament that all policy decisions regarding ethanol blending are based on rigorous technical evaluation and expert recommendations. The minister added that the government will continue monitoring vehicle performance and work closely with automobile manufacturers to ensure a smooth transition to cleaner and more sustainable fuels.

The statement is expected to provide reassurance to millions of vehicle owners as India continues its push towards wider adoption of ethanol-blended fuels in pursuit of energy independence and environmental sustainability.

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