Govt Likely to Introduce E25 Petrol in 'Calculated Manner' After Assessing Impact on Vehicle Performance

Govt Likely to Introduce E25 Petrol in 'Calculated Manner' After Assessing Impact on Vehicle Performance​

Government Weighs Feasibility Before Green-lighting E25 Fuel Blend​

The government is likely to adopt E25 petrol, a blend consisting of 75 percent petrol and 25 percent ethanol, but it will do so in a "calculated manner." This decision follows consultation with industry stakeholders amid growing concerns regarding the impact of higher ethanol blends on vehicle performance and fuel efficiency.

Official sources confirmed that the Centre is currently assessing the existing E20 blend. The assessment covers various aspects including vehicle components, engine performance, and mileage before any final move toward E25 can be made. A government official stated that they are moving forward in a measured way based on industry input.

Infrastructure Readiness for Higher Ethanol Blends​

Oil refiners have already prepared the necessary infrastructure to supply E25 fuel. However, one source from a PSU-refiner cautioned that implementation will only occur after receiving formal approval from the government. Despite this dependency, another public sector refinery official confirmed that refiners are operationally ready to dispense E25 fuel.

The regulatory foundation for advanced ethanol blends is already in place. The government previously notified new Indian standards for E22, E25, E27, and E30 petrol in May. Furthermore, central excise duty exemptions were extended last month to facilitate blending beyond the current E20 program.

Industry Concerns Over Fuel Efficiency and Vehicle Suitability​

Moving past the current E20 blend requires specialized preparation from automakers. Industry experts indicate that introducing blends like E25 necessitates engines to be calibrated further and fuel-system components to be validated for higher ethanol content. This complexity is an active focus of the government's ongoing review process.

CK Jain, President of the Grain Ethanol Manufacturers Association, noted that E20 typically results in a fuel economy reduction of around 3-7 percent, which varies depending on specific engine design and driving conditions. However, he added that modern engines designed for E20 are managing this impact effectively through improved combustion efficiency and advanced engine management systems.

Technical Benefits and Market Backlash​

While industry is scrutinizing performance impact, ethanol holds significant technical advantages. Jain highlighted that ethanol's higher octane rating contributes to cleaner combustion processes and can reduce emissions of carbon monoxide and specific hydrocarbons.

This proposed transition occurs against a backdrop of criticism concerning the current E20 program. The debate gained intensity after Attorney General R. Venkataramani reportedly referred to E20 as an "experiment" during a recent court hearing, suggesting its full impact would be clearer over the next year.

Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri addressed these concerns on Saturday. He dismissed claims that E20 damages vehicle engines or attracts pests, labeling such assertions as "rumours" and urging consumers to rely on scientific evidence instead of misinformation.