The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said E85 fuel, comprising 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent petrol, has been introduced exclusively for certified Flex Fuel Vehicles (FFV) and should not be interpreted as an increase in the nationwide ethanol blending level.
The ministry said India achieved 20 percent ethanol blending five years ahead of its original target through a phased rollout backed by scientific studies and consultations involving NITI Aayog, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), oil marketing companies and other technical institutions.
According to the government, extensive laboratory testing, field validation and real-world operating experience have found no verified evidence that E20 fuel causes widespread engine damage, abnormal corrosion or reduced vehicle life. It noted that more than 20 crore two-wheelers and over three crore petrol cars have been operating on higher ethanol blends without substantiated complaints linked to E20 fuel.
The ministry added that leading automobile manufacturers continue to honour warranty obligations for vehicles using E20 fuel, while technical studies confirmed compatibility with fuel systems, engine durability, drivability and emissions performance.
The government also ruled out any proposal to revert to E0 or E10 petrol, stating that maintaining multiple nationwide fuel supply chains would increase logistics complexity and costs without supporting the country's long-term energy transition objectives.
It further highlighted that the Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme has reduced crude oil imports, lowered carbon emissions, generated additional income for farmers and strengthened India's energy security.
