Actor and Rajya Sabha MP Kamal Haasan used his first unstarred question in Parliament to seek clarity on ethanol-blended fuels and their impact on vehicles, raising concerns about mileage, engine durability and affordability, reports The New Indian Express.
In his question, Haasan asked whether comprehensive studies had been conducted on the effects of E20 fuel on vehicle mileage, engine components and fleet compatibility. He also queried the government on the discontinuation of E10 petrol across the country, despite its wider compatibility with older vehicles, and asked whether the Centre intends to restore E10 as an option.
Haasan further sought clarification on guidelines related to warranty, insurance and consumer protection in cases of vehicle damage, and raised the issue of higher operating costs associated with E20. He also questioned whether the government had assessed ethanol price volatility and its impact on fuel affordability.
Responding in writing, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) formed under NITI Aayog on December 26, 2020, had examined various aspects related to compatibility and mileage. He noted that the assessment was supported by studies carried out by Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM).
Gadkari stated that extensive field trials revealed no compatibility issues or negative effects associated with E20 usage. He added that studies confirmed that even older vehicles did not show changes in performance or unusual wear-and-tear. No issues were reported regarding drivability, startability, or material compatibility, he said.
However, he pointed out that mileage is influenced by several factors beyond fuel blend, including driving habits, maintenance, tyre pressure, alignment and air-conditioning load.
Haasan’s question is considered significant as concerns such as corrosion, degradation of seals and plastic parts, fuel leakage, reduced mileage, incomplete combustion, clogged filters and winter starting trouble have been widely discussed in the context of ethanol blending.
India blended more than 1,000 crore litres of ethanol during the Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2024–25, achieving an average blending rate of 19.24%. In October, the rate reached 19.97%, bringing the country close to the 20% target.
