E20 Petrol Row: The Raipur Consumer Court, in a landmark judgement, ruled in the favour of a vehicle owner who alleged that the use of ethanol-blended (E-20) caused damage to his vehicle. Upon hearing the case, the court directed the carmaker and dealer to either provide a new car or refund the entire amount. It further asked the firm to pay for mental agony and litigation costs incurred during the proceedings.
What Is The Case?
The complainant stated that his vehicle suffered significant damage after refuelling with E20 gasoline and needed frequent repairs. He further stated that the car faced several issues, including misfiring, repeated engine failures and a gradual decrease in mileage or efficiency. The complainant asserted that these problems persisted despite repeated repairs, resulting in heavy expenditure.
While the car owner approached the dealer several times, they disputed this claim by alleging that the model was fully compatible with E20 fuel. They further stated that the vehicle could be suffering due to the other reasons, especially maintenance issues and overuse.
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What Court Said?
In its order, the court pointed out that the consumer had contacted authorised workshops several times for repairs, but the vehicle's problems persisted. It further asserted that repeated repair attempts and the persistence of the defect strengthen the consumer's case that the problem was not entirely addressed.
It also acknowledged that E20 petrol has become the most commonly available fuel at petrol pumps, leaving consumers with practically no other choice. It further asserted that the drivers cannot be expected to avoid using E20 fuel in areas where other options are not available.
The commission, upon accepting the complaint, directed the manufacturer and dealer to refund the repair cost to the vehicle owner. The order also set a time limit for compliance and stated that interest would have to be paid if the compensation amount was not paid within the deadline.