Higher ethanol blends beyond E20 unlikely for now amid vehicle compatibility concerns

After strong advocacy for higher ethanol blending and flex-fuel vehicles by Union Ministers Nitin Gadkari and Hardeep Singh Puri, concerns had grown that India could rapidly move beyond E20 petrol. However, reports suggest that the government may not immediately mandate higher ethanol blends such as E25, amid fears that older vehicles could suffer mileage loss, higher maintenance costs and compatibility issues. Instead, authorities are considering other measures ahead of the crucial decision.