IIT Kanpur study finds E20 petrol does not harm engine performance

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur tested E20 fuel—containing 20% ethanol and 80% gasoline—on BS6‑compliant car and motorcycle engines. The laboratory trials monitored engine noise, power, carbon buildup and overall operation under varied speeds and loads. Results showed no significant engine damage, only a modest carbon deposit reduction and a mileage change of less than five percent, which the team said can be attributed to driving conditions rather than the fuel itself.

The findings directly address widespread social‑media claims that E20 could cause engine wear, corrosion or major efficiency loss. Project scientist Dhruv Raj Karana emphasized that the extensive testing did not reveal any evidence of technical problems. The institute has also successfully tested an E85 blend (85% ethanol) in specialised engines. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has previously described E20 as a cleaner, import‑saving fuel option, noting a potential 5% mileage dip but benefits such as lower carbon emissions. The IIT Kanpur study provides scientific backing for the government's ethanol‑blending policy and aims to reassure vehicle owners.