Nitin Gadkari Addresses Concerns Over E20 Fuel’s Impact on Mileage and Vehicle Damage

Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari has responded to rising concerns regarding the introduction of E20 fuel, a petrol blend containing 20% ethanol, which has been linked to lower vehicle mileage and potential damage to cars. Speaking to The Indian Express, Gadkari dismissed claims circulating on social media as exaggerated, asserting that they contribute to a misleading narrative.

In his remarks, Gadkari challenged critics by asking, “Show me a single car that has suffered damage because of E20 fuel.” He emphasized that the conversations surrounding vehicle damage were largely unfounded and part of a broader issue of misinformation. The minister’s comments come as numerous vehicle owners express frustrations over perceived declines in fuel efficiency since E20’s rollout.

Gadkari also clarified that the government had urged vehicle manufacturers to proactively replace components in older cars that might be susceptible to minor damage caused by the new fuel blend. The implementation of E20 fuel is part of India’s initiative to promote the use of renewable energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Set to be fully introduced across the nation by 2025, E20 fuel underwent extensive testing through collaborations with vehicle manufacturers and the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), a government-run laboratory based in Pune. Gadkari explained that while ethanol has a different calorific value compared to traditional petrol, factors such as driving conditions also significantly influence mileage. He highlighted that in urban areas like Delhi and Mumbai, where traffic often results in vehicles operating in lower gears, this can further affect fuel efficiency.

Despite the criticisms, the minister remains confident in the benefits of E20 fuel as a step toward a more sustainable future. As the government continues to push for greener alternatives, it seems that a dialogue around the implications of such fuel blends will remain a topic of interest among Indian motorists.

Source: scroll.in