Government says E20 fuel rollout backed by scientific studies and industry validation

New Delhi: The Union government on Thursday said the E20 fuel rollout followed scientific testing and consultations with automobile manufacturers, research agencies and oil marketing companies. It said nationwide use has produced no verified evidence of widespread engine failure or vehicle damage.

Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi gave the information in a written reply in the Lok Sabha. He said NITI Aayog, ARAI, SIAM, Indian Oil Corporation, the Indian Institute of Petroleum and other technical bodies supported the programme from the beginning.

Researchers tested engine durability, fuel efficiency, emissions, corrosion resistance and material compatibility before the rollout. They also conducted field trials to check vehicle performance. The studies confirmed that E20 met the prescribed standards.

E20 fuel rollout cleared after industry testing

The government said more than 20 crore two-wheelers and over 3 crore petrol cars have used ethanol-blended petrol without verified evidence of widespread engine failure. E15+ has remained in use for more than three-and-a-half years. E19 and E20 have remained in use for over two-and-a-half years.

Vehicle manufacturers also examined service records. They found no abnormal corrosion, unusual wear or shorter vehicle life linked to E20 fuel. One major manufacturer serviced 2.84 crore vehicles during 2025-26, including 1.5 crore older vehicles. It reported no E20-related damage. Another manufacturer tracked 1.4 crore vehicles and reached the same conclusion.

The government said manufacturers, component suppliers, SIAM, ARAI, testing agencies and oil marketing companies worked together throughout the programme. According to SIAM and ARAI, ethanol-blended petrol improves acceleration, supports modern engines and lowers carbon emissions.