New Delhi: The Centre has dismissed reports claiming that India is preparing to introduce E25 petrol, clarifying that no decision has been taken and that testing of the higher ethanol blend is still underway across different vehicle models.
Officials said reports suggesting an imminent rollout of E25 are incorrect, explaining that the fuel has not yet completed the scientific and technical evaluations required before any policy decision can be considered. They stressed that no proposal to implement E25 is currently under way and urged people not to rely on speculative claims.
The clarification comes amid growing discussions over the country’s ethanol blending programme, with some vehicle owners expressing concerns about engine compatibility and the impact of higher ethanol content on older vehicles.
The government said India’s ethanol blending initiative has always been implemented in phases after extensive testing and consultation with automobile manufacturers, oil marketing companies and technical experts. According to officials, ethanol blending has progressed gradually over the past few years, culminating in the nationwide rollout of E20 petrol after comprehensive validation. More than 20 crore two wheelers and around 20 lakh four wheelers are currently operating on ethanol blended fuel across the country.
Authorities confirmed that compatibility testing for E25 is continuing across multiple automobile brands and vehicle categories. They said any future increase in ethanol blending will depend on scientific evidence covering vehicle safety, engine performance, fuel efficiency, long term durability and approval from manufacturers before a final decision is made.
The Centre said the Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme is aimed at reducing India’s dependence on imported crude oil, lowering fuel import costs and cutting carbon emissions. Ethanol, produced mainly from sugarcane and food grains, is also expected to strengthen energy security while creating additional income opportunities for farmers.
Officials also cautioned against misinformation surrounding ethanol blended fuels, stating that E20 was introduced only after detailed testing and a phased implementation process. They reiterated that the same scientific and regulatory approach will be followed before any decision is taken on introducing E25 petrol.
