The Union minister said studies found E20 petrol has no significant impact on vehicle performance, though some older BS-III vehicles may require replacement of rubber components
New Delhi: Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari informed the Rajya Sabha that BS-III vehicles manufactured between 2005 and 2016 may require replacement of certain rubber parts and gaskets when regularly using E20 petrol, but no engine modifications are necessary.
Replying to a question in the Upper House, Gadkari said studies conducted by Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL), the Indian Institute of Petroleum, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) and the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) found no significant impact on the overall performance of vehicles running on E20 fuel.
Gadkari said the studies confirmed that even legacy vehicles did not show abnormal wear and tear or issues related to drivability, startability, metal compatibility or plastic compatibility. However, tests on BS-III vehicles indicated that some rubber components and gaskets may require replacement over time. He also noted that BS-VI vehicles continued to meet emission norms when tested with E20 fuel.
The Centre has been promoting E20 petrol, a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol, as part of its strategy to reduce crude oil imports, cut emissions and boost domestic biofuel production. The minister’s clarification comes amid concerns over the compatibility of E20 fuel with older vehicles.
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