Key highlights
- PIL claims E20 fuel is damaging engines and violating consumer rights
- Petitioner demands ethanol-free petrol availability and clear fuel labelling
- Supreme Court asked to commission a study on long-term impact of ethanol blends
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the nationwide rollout of E20 petrol, a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol. The petitioner, Advocate Akshay Malhotra, argues that millions of motorists are being forced to use fuel that their vehicles are not designed to handle.
The plea highlights serious concerns over engine damage, reduced mileage, and higher repair costs, especially in vehicles manufactured before 2023. Even some newer BS-VI models are reportedly struggling with the high ethanol content. Insurance claims linked to ethanol-related damage are also being rejected, adding to consumer frustration.
What the PIL demands
The petition urges the Supreme Court to direct the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas to:
- Ensure availability of ethanol-free petrol (E0) at fuel stations across India
- Mandate clear labelling of ethanol content at every dispensing unit
- Launch a nationwide study on the long-term effects of ethanol-blended fuel on non-compatible vehicles
The petitioner draws comparisons with global practices, noting that countries like the US and EU offer both ethanol-free and blended fuels, with clear labelling to help consumers make informed choices.
India’s E20 push
India has fast-tracked its ethanol blending roadmap, aiming for 100% E20 availability by 2025, five years ahead of the original 2030 target. The move is part of a larger strategy to reduce crude oil imports and cut carbon emissions.
Currently, many fuel stations still offer E10 (10% ethanol), but E20 is being introduced in phases. While the government insists that newer vehicles are compatible, the PIL argues that the rollout lacks transparency and consumer safeguards.
Our thoughts
This is the public saying, “We want cleaner fuel, but not at the cost of our engines.” Personally, I think the E20 rollout needs a reality check. Ethanol blending makes sense on paper, but if it’s wrecking engines and voiding insurance claims, that’s a problem.
Also read: Mercedes-Benz in talk with BMW for engines for their petrol cars
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