Continued from P1

Gadkari, however, said studies by government agencies and automobile manufacturers indicate that the reduction in fuel efficiency in certain E10-designed vehicles is limited to about 2-6%. “However, the same is influenced by several factors, including driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle maintenance,” he said, stating that E20 petrol can reduce fuel economy by 2 to 6% depending on the vehicle category and vintage.

The clarification comes amid growing debate about the government’s Ethanol Blending Programme.

The Delhi Taxi and Tourist Transporters and Tour Operators Association has announced a protest march to Parliament on August 4. Amid concerns over possible vehicle damage and reduced mileage from ethanol-blended fuel, reports suggest sales of 100-octane premium petrol—the only grade exempt from ethanol blending—have more than doubled in recent months amid concerns over possible vehicle damage and reduced mileage from ethanol-blended fuel.

Critics also argue that consumers will have to bear recurring annual costs due to lower fuel efficiency, a burden that could rise if the ethanol content in petrol is increased further.

The minister said the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas introduced the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme through a phased, scientifically validated and consultative process involving NITI Aayog, automobile manufacturers, Oil Marketing Companies, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), the Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP) and other technical institutions.

“E20 offers a higher-octane rating, superior anti-knock characteristics, cleaner combustion and smoother engine performance.

E20 improves acceleration and ride quality while reducing carbon emissions. These studies also established that legacy vehicles do not exhibit variation in performance or abnormal wear and tear due to E20,” he said

Officials ruled out any immediate move to increase ethanol blending in petrol beyond the current 20%, saying any decision on higher blends would be taken only after detailed scientific and technical studies and consultations with all relevant stakeholders.