New Delhi, August 7, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Centre on Friday informed Parliament that the nationwide rollout of E20 petrol was preceded by extensive scientific studies and field trials, which confirmed that the fuel is safe for use when operated under prescribed standards.
In a written reply, the Ministry of Heavy Industries said the evaluation was carried out by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. (IOCL), and leading automobile manufacturers.
According to the ministry, the studies assessed critical parameters including engine durability, drivability, cold-start performance, corrosion resistance, material compatibility, fuel system reliability, emissions and fuel efficiency.
The ministry stated that all evaluations concluded E20 petrol is safe for use under the prescribed operating conditions.
It also informed Parliament that an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC), constituted under NITI Aayog on December 26, 2020, had undertaken a comprehensive review of vehicle compatibility as well as the mileage and efficiency implications of ethanol blending before the introduction of E20 fuel.
The committee’s assessment was supported by scientific research conducted by IOCL, ARAI and SIAM, with active participation from automobile manufacturers, component suppliers, testing agencies and oil marketing companies throughout the evaluation process.
The government said the rollout of E20 petrol was approved only after fuel systems, engine durability, drivability, material compatibility and emissions performance were successfully validated through extensive laboratory studies, field trials and a phased implementation strategy.
The ministry further clarified that the studies did not identify any significant adverse impact on vehicle performance, durability or material compatibility in legacy vehicles when operated under the prescribed standards and conditions.
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