E20 petrol can reduce fuel economy by 2-6%: Nitin Gadkari
India's Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari stated that E20 petrol, a blend of 20% ethanol, can reduce vehicle fuel economy by 2-6%. Despite concerns regarding older vehicles and maintenance, the government maintains that extensive testing shows no engine failures.
Why it matters
The transition to higher ethanol blends is a key part of India's strategy to reduce carbon emissions and oil imports, though it raises consumer concerns about vehicle longevity and performance.
Petrol blended with 20% ethanol (E20) can reduce fuel economy by 2 to 6% depending on the vehicle category and vintage, Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari informed Parliament on Thursday (July 30, 2026).
The Union Minister, however, argued that tests for engine durability on a dynamometer and on-road vehicle tests have not shown any failures due to E20.
In a written reply to the Lok Sabha, Mr. Gadkari said E20 fuel provides better acceleration, improved ride quality and approximately 30% lower carbon emissions compared to E10 fuel.
Mr. Gadkari said a study to evaluate the effect of E20 on BS-III, BS-IV and BS-VI E10 (Gasoline) two-wheelers and four-wheelers was carried out jointly by ARAI, SIAM and Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL).
He said the study comprised of standard testing as per the respective certification requirements & customised test protocols developed along with the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in