New Delhi: Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has said that only some Bharat Stage III (BS III) vehicles manufactured before 2016 may require minor replacements of rubber parts and gaskets before using E20 petrol, while no engine modifications are needed for cars or two wheelers.
In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Gadkari cited extensive studies conducted by the Indian Oil Corporation, Indian Institute of Petroleum, Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers and the Automotive Research Association of India.
According to the findings, vehicles running on petrol blended with 20 percent ethanol did not show any significant decline in performance or abnormal wear and tear, including older models. The studies also reported no issues related to drivability, starting performance, metal compatibility or plastic compatibility.
The minister clarified that only BS III vehicles introduced from April 1, 2005, and manufactured before 2016 may require replacement of certain rubber components and gaskets. He said these changes are minor and can be carried out as part of routine vehicle servicing.
Responding to concerns over fuel efficiency, Gadkari said mileage depends on several factors and cannot be linked solely to the use of E20 fuel. He noted that automobile manufacturers and vehicle testing agencies have supported this conclusion.
The minister also highlighted that an inter ministerial committee constituted by NITI Aayog thoroughly examined vehicle compatibility, fuel efficiency and other technical aspects before the rollout of E20 fuel. The committee’s Roadmap for Ethanol Blending in India 2020-25, released in June 2021, assessed material compatibility, engine calibration, emissions, durability and fuel systems after consultations with automakers, oil companies and agricultural experts.
Gadkari said the Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme has been implemented through a phased and scientifically validated approach. He also pointed out that ethanol blended fuels have been used worldwide for more than a century, with countries such as Brazil successfully operating vehicles on even higher ethanol blends for decades.
