• Source:JND

E20 Petrol Price:  The Indian government has issued a detailed clarification on the country’s ethanol blending programme (EBP), launched in 2003. The government has stated that the EBP is scientifically validated and continuously monitored. Notably, India has achieved its E20 goals ahead of time, and the government is now pushing toward higher ethanol blends. While the move is being seen as a significant leap toward the country’s energy security, it has also triggered a wave of misleading claims on social media.

E20 Petrol & Social Media Claims

The government of India has also noted misleading claims circulating on social media and stated that old images and videos are being recirculated in an apparent attempt to garner viewership through sensationalism and create unwarranted concerns regarding ethanol-blended fuel. Notably, several social media posts have fueled public confusion about E20 petrol. For example, a fake video featuring ants swarming the fuel tank of a car was shared on social media, claiming that the ethanol-blended petrol attracts ants.

Also Read: Tata Altroz To Skoda Kylaq: Cars Under Rs 10 Lakh With 5-Star BNCAP Rating

Govt Debunks E20 Fuel Misinformation

The government has acknowledged such misleading social media posts and said that ‘the programme (Ethanol Blending Programme) has been implemented in a phased manner based on technical preparedness and stakeholder consultations, culminating in the rollout of 20 per cent ethanol blending (E20) from 2023 onwards. The Government continuously monitors the implementation of the Ethanol Blending Programme in consultation with oil marketing companies, automobile manufacturers, fuel testing agencies and other stakeholders’

Also Read: Tata Altroz Spied Testing Again: E85 Or Turbo Variant? Here’s What We Think

Does E20 Fuel Damage Engines?

Pre-BS-6 phase 2 vehicles, or simply vehicles manufactured before April 2023, are more prone to issues from E20 fuel. Similarly, vehicles with carbureted engines or older rubber and plastic fuel lines might be at a higher risk. This is further proved by a survey done by Local Circles. As per the survey, 28 per cent of old vehicle owners have confirmed experiencing unusual wear and tear and a need for repair.

The survey received 37,000 responses from petrol vehicle owners from 331 districts of the country. Ethanol is more of a solvent, and it can damage metal tanks, fuel lines, and carburettors in the older vehicles. Additionally, as per several reports, older fuel hoses, seals, and gaskets are not ethanol-resistant, and they might get damaged from E20 petrol.

Also Read: Hyundai Bayon Spied Testing Again; Check Expected Design, Features, And Specs

Why India Is Pushing For Higher Ethanol Blend?

India currently imports more than 85 per cent of its fuel needs from other countries, which results in depleting forex reserves. The ongoing US-Iran conflict has resulted in a severe disruption in the global fuel supply chain, which has increased the global crude oil prices. Ethanol, on the other hand, can be produced from agricultural waste. India is an agricultural economy, and blending ethanol with petrol will further strengthen it by completing other goals, such as reducing dependence on global crude oil supply and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.


Also In News