New Delhi, September 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has said a car running entirely on ethanol could bring its fuel cost to the equivalent of around Rs 25 per litre, as the government continues to promote alternative fuels amid debate over India’s E20 petrol policy.
Gadkari said Toyota’s Innova flex-fuel vehicle, designed to run on 100 per cent ethanol, is expected to be launched in October. He said he had been invited to the launch and claimed that the vehicle would not require petrol.
The minister also said the vehicle would generate electricity while running, describing the technology as another step towards reducing dependence on conventional fuels. Reports on his remarks said he referred to the vehicle’s running economics as being comparable to a petrol car using fuel priced at around Rs 25 per litre.
“Ethanol is being used in 19 countries in the world and today no complaint is coming from any vehicle in India. In October, I have been invited for the launch of Toyota’s Innova car that will run on 100 per cent flex fuel,” Gadkari said.
His comments come amid continuing discussion over E20 petrol, which contains up to 20 per cent ethanol. Questions have been raised by some motorists and lawmakers over mileage, engine performance and long-term maintenance.
The government has maintained that it has not received widespread or substantiated complaints from vehicle manufacturers, automobile associations or consumer groups regarding E20’s impact on vehicle performance or maintenance. It has also cited laboratory studies and field trials covering engine durability and material compatibility.
India has already moved into the flex-fuel passenger vehicle segment. Maruti Suzuki launched the Wagon R Flex Fuel in June, with the vehicle engineered to operate on ethanol-petrol blends ranging from E20 to E100.
The proposed Toyota Innova would therefore add another major manufacturer and model to India’s expanding ethanol-based mobility programme.
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