Centre Carefully Moving On E-25 Fuel

The government appears to be proceeding slowly with the implementation of E-25 fuel. There is strong opposition from the middle class, four-wheeler users, car owners, and automobile manufacturers regarding concerns about engine longevity and reduced mileage, the source says. According to a government source, while the central government has not yet officially discontinued E-20 petrol, which contains a 20% ethanol mix, its adoption is facing delays. The ethanol-blended petrol helps cut fuel costs, as explained by government officials. The transport minister has emphasised that, given the ongoing geopolitical tensions and the potential for war in the Middle East, developing alternative fuels is a strategic priority to ensure vehicle fuel security, the source says. Two prominent ministers continue to defend the current policies without sufficiently addressing the industry’s and consumers’ concerns. Car owners are burdened financially, and the automobile industry has consistently warned that existing vehicle models are not calibrated for ethanol blends beyond certain levels without risking engine damage or decreased efficiency, a point some sources confirm.