India's E20 petrol rollout faces opposition over engine performance claims

Opposition leaders in India have criticised the government's rollout of E20 petrol, alleging that the higher ethanol blend reduces mileage, damages engines and increases maintenance costs. Rahul Gandhi released a video claiming the fuel harms vehicle engines and lowers fuel efficiency, while AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal accused the Modi government of yielding to U.S. pressure to create a market for American ethanol imports and warned that many legacy vehicles are not compatible with the blend.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas responded in Parliament, citing extensive scientific studies and field trials conducted by the Automotive Research Association of India, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, Indian Oil and other agencies. The ministry said the evaluations found E20 safe for use under prescribed standards, with no verified cases of engine failure or warranty issues. It also highlighted economic benefits, including foreign‑exchange savings of about ₹1.97 lakh crore, reduced crude‑oil imports, lower CO₂ emissions and additional income for farmers.

Government officials noted that more than 20 million two‑wheelers and 30 million petrol cars have already run on E20‑type blends without significant adverse effects, and that the policy is being implemented in phases to ensure infrastructure readiness.