New Delhi: Maruti Suzuki India Ltd launched the Flex-fuel Wagon R, which can run on ethanol-blended fuel from E20 to E100. The company described it as India’s first passenger car with this capability.
Customers can use any petrol-ethanol blend within the approved range. The company said the vehicle uses an advanced engine control unit. As a result, the system automatically adjusts to different ethanol blends.
Maruti Suzuki introduced the technology in the Wagon R. The model already comes in CNG and LPG variants. Therefore, the launch expands the company’s multi-fuel vehicle portfolio.
Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said biofuels can reduce India’s dependence on imported crude oil. He added that ethanol can also support the rural economy. Moreover, flex-fuel vehicles can create steady demand for ethanol.
According to Gadkari, farmers, industry and the environment will benefit from wider adoption of biofuels. He also expressed confidence that other manufacturers would launch similar vehicles. Meanwhile, fuel companies are expected to expand ethanol distribution networks.
Flex-fuel Wagon R strengthens ethanol mobility goals
Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said India’s ethanol programme has helped farmers contribute to the energy sector. In addition, he said flex-fuel vehicles can reduce crude oil imports and lower emissions.
Puri added that the technology can create new economic opportunities in rural areas. Consequently, it can support both energy security and sustainable growth.
Maruti Suzuki Managing Director and CEO Hisashi Takeuchi said the company remains committed to offering multiple mobility solutions. Accordingly, it is expanding its portfolio with electric vehicles, hybrids, CNG, CBG and ethanol-compatible models.
He said these technologies support India’s energy security goals. Furthermore, they contribute to emission reduction while giving customers more fuel choices.
