NEW DELHI: The Oil Ministry on Tuesday dismissed concerns circulating on social media that 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20) causes a sharp drop in vehicle fuel efficiency, calling such claims “baseless” and noting that the blend can even improve acceleration.
E20, made by mixing petrol with 20% ethanol derived from sugarcane or maize, is part of a national drive to cut emissions and boost farmers’ incomes. The ministry said some individuals are attempting to “derail” the programme by spreading misinformation, including false claims that insurance cover becomes invalid with E20 use.
While critics have suggested E20 reduces mileage by at least 7%, the ministry cited its earlier clarification that the drop is marginal—1–2% for vehicles designed for E10 and tuned for E20, and about 3–6% in others. Many vehicles have been E20-compatible since 2009.
The ministry highlighted additional benefits:
- Environmental: Up to 65% lower greenhouse gas emissions from sugarcane ethanol and 50% from maize ethanol compared to petrol.
- Economic: Over 11 years, ethanol blending saved ₹1.44 lakh crore in foreign exchange, substituted 245 lakh tonnes of crude oil, and cut CO₂ emissions by 736 lakh tonnes—equivalent to planting 30 crore trees. At 20% blending this year, farmers are expected to receive ₹40,000 crore, with forex savings of around ₹43,000 crore.
Ethanol’s high octane rating (108.5 vs petrol’s 84.4) improves anti-knocking properties and performance, with better ride quality and acceleration, especially in city driving. Its higher heat of vaporization also enhances engine efficiency.
Addressing cost concerns, the ministry noted that while ethanol was once cheaper than petrol, procurement prices have since risen, averaging ₹71.32 per litre (₹71.86 for maize-based ethanol), now exceeding refined petrol costs.
Automakers, it added, are working with vehicle owners to ensure optimal performance, offering tuning and part replacements where needed.
