Ethanol-blended petrol push: Is your vehicle ready for E20? 10 key facts to know

India has hit a serious milestone in its inexperienced gasoline journey, reaching its E20 goal (20 per cent ethanol blended petrol) 5 years forward of schedule. However, the transfer has triggered recent issues round gasoline effectivity and engine well being. The authorities has stepped in to clear the air, whereas plans for additional mixing are already in movement. Here are 10 key issues to know in regards to the 20% ethanol-blended gasoline, its influence, and what lies forward:1. India achieved the E20 mixing goal forward of timeIndia achieved its goal of mixing 20 p.c ethanol with petrol 5 years forward of schedule, the Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) introduced.The ethanol mixing programme resulted in vital financial and environmental advantages, as evidenced by ISMA’s statistics. “This achievement is a monumental leap for India’s energy independence and rural prosperity,” Deepak Ballani, Director General of ISMA, advised PTI.2. Government dismisses claims of drastic mileage drop The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has rejected viral social media posts alleging that E20 causes a serious fall in gasoline effectivity. Calling the claims “factually incorrect,” the ministry mentioned they lack any scientific backing or professional validation, as reported by ANI.3. Mileage influence While ethanol has decrease power density than petrol, the mileage influence is comparatively small. For E10 autos tuned for E20, the drop is simply 1–2 per cent. In different autos, the discount may vary between 3–6 per cent — and even that may be minimised with correct engine tuning.4. E20-ready autos already out thereAccording to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), autos designed for E20 have been obtainable in India since April 2023. These vehicles include upgraded gasoline system parts to deal with ethanol blends with out harm.5. No main security dangers for older autos The authorities mentioned E20 is protected for older autos as properly. Minor part replacements — like rubber components or gaskets — could also be wanted after 20,000 to 30,000 kilometres, however these are sometimes cheap and a part of common servicing.6. Ethanol- Environment pleasant? Ethanol is a renewable gasoline. A NITI Aayog examine, cited by ANI, discovered that ethanol constituted of sugarcane emits 65 per cent much less CO₂ than petrol, whereas maize-based ethanol cuts emissions by round 50 per cent. This makes ethanol mixing a key a part of India’s local weather motion technique.7. Engine efficiency increase Ethanol has a better octane score (about 108.5) than petrol (round 84.4), which improves engine efficiency and reduces knocking. The increased warmth of vaporisation additionally helps cool consumption air, enhancing combustion effectivity.8. Economic advantages — for each the nation and farmers Since 2014, India has saved round Rs 1.36 lakh crore in international alternate by ethanol substitution, reported PTI. Farmers have earned over Rs 1.18 lakh crore supplying uncooked supplies, and distilleries have generated Rs 1.96 lakh crore in income. The program has additionally helped keep away from 698 lakh tonnes of CO₂ emissions.9. E27 and different biofuels subsequent? Riding on the E20 success, the federal government now plans to introduce E27 — petrol with 27 per cent ethanol. Standards are being drafted and can reportedly be finalised by the top of August. The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) is evaluating engine modifications for E27 compatibility.10. Rapid progressFrom 38 crore litres in 2014, ethanol manufacturing elevated to 661 crore litres blended as of June 2025, leading to 698 lakh tonnes discount in carbon dioxide emissions.