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

India has hit a major milestone in its green fuel journey, achieving its E20 target (20 per cent ethanol blended petrol) five years ahead of schedule. However, the move has triggered fresh concerns around fuel efficiency and engine health. The government has stepped in to clear the air, while plans for further blending are already in motion. Here are 10 key things to know about the 20% ethanol-blended fuel, its impact, and what lies ahead:1. India achieved the E20 blending target ahead of timeIndia achieved its target of blending 20 percent ethanol with petrol five years ahead of schedule, the Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) announced.The ethanol blending programme resulted in significant economic and environmental benefits, 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, told 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 major fall in fuel efficiency. Calling the claims “factually incorrect,” the ministry said they lack any scientific backing or expert validation, as reported by ANI.3. Mileage impact While ethanol has lower energy density than petrol, the mileage impact is relatively small. For E10 vehicles tuned for E20, the drop is just 1–2 per cent. In other vehicles, the reduction could range between 3–6 per cent — and even that can be minimised with proper engine tuning.4. E20-ready vehicles already in the marketAccording to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), vehicles designed for E20 have been available in India since April 2023. These cars come with upgraded fuel system components to handle ethanol blends without damage.5. No major safety risks for older vehicles The government said E20 is safe for older vehicles as well. Minor component replacements — like rubber parts or gaskets — may be needed after 20,000 to 30,000 kilometres, but these are typically inexpensive and part of regular servicing.6. Ethanol- Environment friendly? Ethanol is a renewable fuel. A NITI Aayog study, cited by ANI, found that ethanol made from sugarcane emits 65 per cent less CO₂ than petrol, while maize-based ethanol cuts emissions by around 50 per cent. This makes ethanol blending a key part of India’s climate action strategy.7. Engine performance boost Ethanol has a higher octane rating (about 108.5) than petrol (around 84.4), which improves engine performance and reduces knocking. The higher heat of vaporisation also helps cool intake air, enhancing combustion efficiency.8. Economic benefits — for both the country and farmers Since 2014, India has saved around Rs 1.36 lakh crore in foreign exchange through ethanol substitution, reported PTI. Farmers have earned over Rs 1.18 lakh crore supplying raw materials, and distilleries have generated Rs 1.96 lakh crore in revenue. The program has also helped avoid 698 lakh tonnes of CO₂ emissions.9. E27 and other biofuels next? Riding on the E20 success, the government now plans to introduce E27 — petrol with 27 per cent ethanol. Standards are being drafted and will reportedly be finalised by the end of August. The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) is evaluating engine modifications for E27 compatibility.10. Rapid growthFrom 38 crore litres in 2014, ethanol production increased to 661 crore litres blended as of June 2025, resulting in 698 lakh tonnes reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.