Amid reports that the majority of petrol vehicle owners are against E20 petrol, a blend of 20 percent ethanol and 80 percent petrol, the government has sought to clarify the rumors that E20 petrol is causing a dip in mileage for cars.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) has dispelled these speculations, stating that the E20 petrol does not affect engine performance, fuel economy, or the longevity of vehicles, especially older ones. The MoPNG said there was no data or scientific studies that proved otherwise.
Ethanol, an alcohol-based fuel typically derived from crops such as sugarcane, is said to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. While the newer vehicles can handle the 20 per cent blend, older vehicles in India are calibrated for E10 (10 per cent ethanol).
The ministry further claimed that global reports on E20 suggested no significant differences in power and torque generated and fuel consumption. The studies were held on mechanical, energy and environmental performance of vehicles through testing of carbureted and fuel-injected vehicles every 10,000 km during their first 100,000 km. Besides, the tests conducted by agencies, including the IOC (R&D) revealed no changes in performance or abnormal wear and tear in vehicles that used E20. E20 fuel passed hot and cold startability tests without any engine damage, the statement said.
The ministry, however, agreed that there was a marginal decrease in mileage at the rate of 1–2% for four-wheelers designed for E10 and calibrated for E20, and around 3–6% in others. However, this can be addressed through better engine tuning and the use of E20-compatible materials.
On wear and tear, the ministry said E20 safety standards include corrosion inhibitors and materials designed to handle ethanol blends. “In some older vehicles, rubber parts or gaskets may need replacement after 20,000–30,000 km of E20 usage. These replacements are inexpensive and can be carried out during routine maintenance.”
It also said the E20 was good for bringing down pollution. ““With a higher octane rating (108.5 compared to petrol’s 84.4), ethanol contributes to higher-octane fuel blends (95 RON), which are well-suited for modern high-compression engines. This results in better ride quality and improved performance. Ethanol’s higher heat of vaporization also cools the intake manifold, increasing air-fuel mixture density and enhancing engine efficiency,” it said.
The ministry’s explanation comes as a survey revealed that two in three owners of vehicles purchased in 2022 or earlier reported lower fuel efficiency in 2025 compared to previous years. The survey was conducted among 36,000 people from 315 districts,
Among vehicle owners surveyed, two in three with cars purchased in 2022 or earlier reported lower fuel efficiency in 2025 compared with previous years. A large majority of them also wanted the policy to sell only E20 petrol to be revoked.