The Big Question Everyone’s Asking
From city traffic jams to chai stalls, one topic keeps popping up in 2025 — E20 petrol. The government says it’s the future. Some drivers worry it might be a headache. So, who’s right? And what does this new 20% ethanol petrol really mean for your car, your pocket, and the planet?
Table of Contents
What is E20 and Why the Push Now?
E20 petrol means 20% ethanol mixed with 80% petrol. It’s cleaner than pure petrol and helps reduce oil imports. Countries like Brazil have been running even higher blends for years.
The Indian government’s goal? A single nationwide blend — E20 only — instead of multiple choices like E10, E20, or E30.
Pankaj Jain, Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, confirmed this at the Biofuels 360° Summit in New Delhi: Source Below
“There will be no buffet of fuel blends. E20 will be the only petrol sold at pumps.”
Official Confirmation: E20 Already Here
This is not just talk — it’s already happening.
Somone filed an RTI (Right to Information) with Indian Oil Corporation, and on 03 July 2025, they officially confirmed:
- XP95 in Kolkata = 20% ethanol
- Normal petrol (MS) in Kolkata = 20% ethanol
So yes, E20 is already flowing into your tank in some cities.
Government’s Side of the Story
Why E20-only makes sense for them:
- Simple logistics: One fuel means no confusion at pumps.
- Faster rollout: Easier for oil companies to manage supply.
- Green goals: Helps cut emissions faster.
- Vehicle readiness: Most cars made after April 2023 are E20-compatible.
How E27 Fuel Will Impact Your Car’s Performance & Value
Public Concerns and Why Drivers Are Worried
But not everyone’s cheering.
- Older cars (especially before 2015) may face fuel line wear or engine knocking.
- Mileage drop: Ethanol has less energy than petrol, so some fear higher fuel consumption.
- Limited choice: Drivers can’t opt for E10 even if they want to.
Recently, an X (formerly Twitter) user, Pramod Joshi, shared a concerning experience about his Volkswagen Vento. He reported that his car’s mileage dropped sharply from around 10 km/l to just 6 km/l after his last fuel refill.
Is Your Car Ready for E20?
Check with your manufacturer — most brands have released compatibility lists.
- Post-April 2023 models: Generally safe.
- 2015–2022 models: May be compatible but confirm.
- Pre-2015 cars: Might need minor changes like new fuel lines or ECU updates.
How to Save Petrol in City Traffic
State-by-State Readiness
Some states are ahead of the game:
- Delhi-NCR, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh → Already have strong ethanol blending infrastructure.
- North-east & hill regions → Rollout slower due to supply and logistics challenges.
The Road Ahead
The government says higher blends (like E30) may come later, but for now, E20 is the only game in town. The big test will be whether it can deliver lower emissions without making life harder for millions of vehicle owners.
Final Word from AutoAkhbar.com
If you drive a recent model, E20 probably won’t be a problem. If you own an older car, check your manual, talk to your service center, and stay informed.
E20 is here — and as the RTI proof shows, in some cities, it’s already in your fuel tank.
Frequently Asked Questions – E20 Petrol Rollout 2025
Q1: What is E20 petrol and why is it being introduced in India?
E20 petrol is a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol. The Government of India is promoting it to reduce crude oil imports, cut carbon emissions, and support farmers by using sugarcane and grain-based ethanol.
Q2: Is E20 petrol already available in my city?
As of mid-2025, many Indian Oil, BPCL, and HPCL outlets in metro cities and select towns are offering E20 fuel. You can check availability at your nearest fuel station or via the oil company’s official app.
Q3: Will E20 petrol reduce my car’s mileage?
Yes, E20 petrol may cause a slight drop in fuel economy — usually between 6% to 8% — because ethanol has lower energy content than petrol.
Q4: Is my older car or bike compatible with E20 petrol?
Most vehicles manufactured after April 2023 are designed to be E20-compatible. Older vehicles may run on it but could face long-term wear, so check your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s advisory.
Q5: What does the RTI say about ethanol content in petrol?
According to an RTI reply from Indian Oil Corporation (July 2025), XP95 petrol and normal petrol sold in Kolkata already contain 20% ethanol by volume.
Q6: How does E20 petrol affect engine health?
If your vehicle is not E20-ready, prolonged use might cause rubber seals, fuel lines, and other components to wear faster. Using recommended lubricants and regular maintenance can help reduce risks.
Q7: Why is there public concern about E20 rollout?
Many vehicle owners are worried about reduced mileage, increased maintenance costs, and lack of clarity on compatibility — especially for cars and bikes purchased before 2023.
