E20 Petrol Safe for Older Vehicles, Confirms Union Minister Nitin Gadkari

E20 Petrol Compatibility with Older Vehicles

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, informed Parliament that E20 petrol is safe for older vehicles, including those manufactured before the E20 compatibility standards were established. He emphasized that there are no significant issues related to unusual wear and tear or performance in these vehicles. However, he acknowledged that a higher ethanol blend could reduce fuel efficiency by 2 to 6 percent. Gadkari was responding to a query from DMK MP Constantine Ravindran, who sought information on the impact of E20 petrol availability on older vehicles, specifically those registered before April 1, 2017, including BS-III models. The minister noted that the government has not received any substantial complaints from vehicle manufacturers, automobile associations, or consumer organizations linking E20 petrol to engine damage, fuel pump issues, rust, water contamination, or other performance-related problems.

No Unusual Wear and Tear in Older Vehicles: Gadkari

Citing laboratory studies and field trials, Gadkari stated that the use of E20 petrol has not resulted in any unusual wear or significant performance changes in older or 'legacy' vehicles. These studies were conducted by the Automotive Research Association of India, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, Indian Oil Corporation, the Indian Institute of Petroleum, and various automobile manufacturers. The trials assessed engine durability, ease of operation, starting capability, rust resistance, material compatibility, and emissions. According to Gadkari, the results confirmed that E20 petrol is safe when used according to established standards.