Nitin Gadkari Says E20 Fuel May Damage BS-III Rubber Parts

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari informed the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday that BS-III vehicles manufactured between April 1, 2005, and 2016 may require the replacement of certain rubber parts and gaskets when using E20 petrol. He stated that these replacements can be handled during routine servicing and will not create additional financial liability for owners.

Gadkari defended the nationwide rollout of the 20 percent ethanol blend, citing joint studies by the Indian Oil Corporation Limited, the Indian Institute of Petroleum, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, and the Automotive Research Association of India. He noted that these evaluations found no need for engine modifications and no significant variations in performance, drivability, or metal and plastic compatibility for legacy vehicles.

The government's initiative follows the Ethanol Blending Roadmap 2020-25 developed by NITI Aayog to lower emissions and crude oil imports. However, the policy faces criticism from consumer groups and political opponents. Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal alleged that the central government pressured automobile manufacturers to claim the fuel is safe for older vehicles, asserting that nine manufacturers privately admitted that E20 could affect engines and fuel systems in vehicles made before 2023 but refused to provide written confirmation to avoid compensation claims.