India assures E20 petrol safe; older cars may see up to 5% mileage loss

The Indian government said that the new E20 petrol blend, containing 20% ethanol, is safe for vehicles and there is no verified evidence of engine damage. Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi noted that older cars originally designed for E10 fuel might experience a marginal 3‑5% reduction in fuel efficiency, attributing variations to factors such as driving habits and vehicle maintenance. Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari challenged critics to identify any vehicle that has suffered damage from E20, calling negative narratives a "paid campaign."

The rollout is part of India's strategy to promote cleaner fuels, lessen dependence on crude oil imports, and boost the agricultural sector through increased ethanol demand. Officials advised owners of older models to follow manufacturer guidelines while the government continues to monitor fuel quality and consumer awareness.