India Confirms No National Assessment of E20 Fuel Compatibility

The Government of India informed Parliament on July 27, 2026, that it has not conducted a formal assessment to determine the percentage of vehicles in the country fully compatible with E20 fuel. Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi stated that the Ministry of Heavy Industries has not performed such an evaluation.

Despite the lack of a comprehensive compatibility study, the government defended the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme. Officials asserted that laboratory studies and field trials confirm E20 fuel remains safe under prescribed standards. Data provided to Parliament indicates that more than 20 crore two-wheelers and 3 crore petrol cars have used ethanol blends without verified evidence of widespread engine failure.

The government acknowledged that vehicles designed for E10 petrol may experience a 3-5 per cent reduction in mileage. However, it maintained that E20 offers a higher octane rating and lower emissions. Furthermore, the government cited manufacturer data suggesting that E20 usage has caused no abnormal corrosion or reductions in overall vehicle life.