India backs E20 ethanol fuel, reports no engine damage

Two senior Indian government ministers defended the country's ethanol-blended petrol program in Parliament on Thursday, July 30, 2026, stating that extensive scientific testing has found no evidence that E20 fuel causes abnormal engine wear or widespread vehicle failures. The statements from Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari and Minister of State for Petroleum Suresh Gopi came amid ongoing public debate and advocacy group pressure regarding the fuel's impact on vehicle performance and fuel economy.

In written replies to the Lok Sabha, the ministers detailed the findings of joint studies conducted by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), and Indian Oil Corporation. The studies, which included laboratory tests, dynamometer durability trials, and on-road vehicle assessments, concluded that E20 fuel is safe for use under prescribed standards and does not lead to significant performance variation or abnormal wear in legacy vehicles. Minister Gopi stated that manufacturer service data confirms no abnormal corrosion, wear, or reduction in vehicle life attributable to E20, and that automakers continue to honor...