E20 Fuel Declared Safe for All Vehicles – ARAI

GS3 – Environment and Energy Security

Context
  • The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) confirmed that E20 fuel (20% ethanol + 80% petrol blend) is safe for use across all vehicles currently running on Indian roads.
  • The clarification comes amid concerns over engine damage, mileage reduction, warranties, and insurance coverage.
Key Highlights

ARAI Findings

  • A 2021 ARAI study (submitted to authorities, not public yet) tested two-wheelers and cars from 2–3 major OEMs over 1 lakh km.
  • No breakdowns or negative impact on non-E20 vehicles were observed.
  • E20 fuel is safe for all vintages of vehicles in India.

Vehicle Performance & Mileage

  • Concerns of large mileage drops (20–50%) were dismissed as misinformation.
  • Ethanol has 30–35% lower calorific value, but when blended at 20%, it results in maximum 6% loss in energy output.
  • Real-world testing showed only 2–4% efficiency loss, depending on vehicle condition and usage.

Insurance & Warranty Concerns

  • Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) confirmed:
    • Car warranties and insurance remain valid, irrespective of the fuel type used.
    • OEMs are informing customers through official communication.

Cost Implications

  • No increase in vehicle prices to make them E20-compliant.
  • Toyota Kirloskar Motors clarified that since April 1, 2023, all new vehicles sold in India are E20-certified after fine-tuning and emission testing.
Significance
  • Supports India’s ethanol blending programme (target: 20% blending by 2025).
  • Reduces dependence on crude oil imports, improves energy security, and supports farmers (ethanol from sugarcane, maize, etc.).
  • Aims at lowering carbon emissions from transport sector.
  • Builds consumer confidence by ensuring safety, performance, and cost-neutrality.
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