Indian automakers claim ethanol fuel is safe but reduces mileage, as motorists complain

India's new fuel blend with 20% ethanol is expected to reduce vehicle mileage by 2-4%, but it's safe, according to a lobby group that represents the country's carmakers. The group was aiming to calm motorists' fears in the third largest auto market in the world.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is focused on clean energy, set the target of 20% ethanol in fuel by 2025. This was called E20. In recent weeks, it has been the only option at almost all fuel stations. This has caused a furor among drivers who are concerned about its impact on vehicle durability and performance, especially older cars.

P.K. Banerjee, executive director of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), told reporters late on Saturday at a news event in New Delhi that using E20 fuel is safer than regular gasoline but reduces mileage. Banerjee told reporters at a New Delhi news event on Saturday night that the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers' (SIAM) executive director, Banerjee.

Since quite some time, millions of vehicles have been using E20. Banerjee said that not a single engine failure or vehicle breakdown has been reported. He added that companies will fully honour warranty and insurance claims if they arise.

SIAM represents India’s major automakers, including Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai Motor. It also represents Mahindra & Mahindra, Tata Motors, Toyota Motor, and Mahindra & Mahindra.

At the event, more than a dozen executives of automakers, fuel retailers, and industry groups answered questions from journalists about India's ethanol blended petrol program.

Banerjee said that claims of a 50 percent drop in fuel efficiency were unfounded and inaccurate. He said that scientific studies in controlled environments showed a 2% to 4% reduction, which is the first time a numerical value was attached to this drop.

Driving in real-world conditions can cause a higher drop in mileage because of a number of factors.

C.V. Raman said that the difference would be noticeable on the road because of how the vehicles are maintained.

The Indian government has gradually rolled out E20 fuel in India since 2023. However, older blends like E5 or E10 were also available, which are typically viewed as being more compatible with older cars.

These older fuel mixtures have been removed from almost all 90,000 of the fuel stations in the country, leaving only one option for drivers. This decision is not likely to change.

Recently, car owners have taken to social media to express their concerns over the large drop in fuel efficiency and the confusing statements made by automakers. Carmakers initially said that E20 fuel was not tested to ensure compatibility with older cars, but later retracted their statement and stated it is safe for use.

The automakers have given mixed advice, which has exacerbated the anger of consumers over lack of choice. On Monday, the Supreme Court will hear a public interest lawsuit against the decision. Aditi Sharma is reporting; Michael Perry is editing.

(source: Reuters)