- Maruti challenges Raipur court order on E20 fuel.
- Claims Grand Vitara damaged by contaminated fuel, not E20.
- Court ordered car replacement or full refund to customer.
E20 Fuel Row: Maruti Suzuki has reportedly decided to challenge a Raipur consumer court order that directed the firm to either replace a Grand Vitara Strong Hybrid or repay the full amount after the customer raised E20 fuel-related issues. In its statement, the car manufacturer has asserted that the vehicle was E20-compatible, adding that the contaminated fuel led to the damage.
'Fuel Was Contaminated'
In its statement, Maruti Suzuki pointed out that the fuel collected from the customer's vehicle had evidence of contamination. The firm further alleged that several relevant facts were not reflected in the order, adding that it will take necessary steps to challenge the order.
"The car in this case was an E20 compatible car, fully equipped to handle E20 fuel and so disclosed in the owner's manual. There is evidence of contamination in the fuel collected from the customer's vehicle. Several other relevant facts have also not been reflected in the order," the firm stated.
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"Will take necessary steps to challenge the impugned order before appropriate higher forum in accordance with law," it added. Earlier, upon hearing the arguments from both parties, the consumer court directed the firm and the dealer to replace the car with a new E20-compatible vehicle or refund Rs 20.50 lakh.
Court's Ruling Sparks Row
The court also directed them to provide Rs 1 lakh as compensation for mental stress and the litigation expenses, adding that interest will be imposed if the amount is not cleared within 45 days. The consumer court acknowledged that the fuel caused severe damage to the vehicle, and it faced issues despite multiple repair works.
In his complaint, Raipur resident Dr Premraj Debta alleged that the car faced several issues, including misfiring, repeated engine failures, and a gradual decrease in mileage or efficiency. The complainant also claimed that he was not informed that the vehicle might not be fully compatible with E20 petrol.