Gadkari Challenges Mileage Claims Against Ethanol, Blames Lobby

Gadkari Challenges Mileage Claims Against Ethanol: Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari on Friday rubbished claims that E20 petrol—a fuel blend with 20% ethanol—reduces vehicle mileage. At a summit, Gadkari said the opposition to E20 is political and being manipulated by the ‘petroleum lobby.’

"This is not even a discussion. I don't know if I should say this, politically — it appears the petroleum lobby is manipulating it," Gadkari said in response to a question about social media concerns regarding E20's effect on mileage. He then issued an 'open challenge' to critics, "You show me one vehicle anywhere in the world which had problems because of E20 petrol! There is absolutely no problem with E20."

This comes a week after the petroleum ministry also said no major engine damage or performance loss has been detected due to the fuel.

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It did admit that mileage may dip by 2% in new cars and 6% in old cars that need upgraded parts. But that can be managed with regular maintenance, it said in a social media post on Monday.

Gadkari highlighted the economic benefits of ethanol. He said maize prices have gone up from ₹1,200 to ₹2,600 per quintal due to ethanol production. This has led to maize cultivation in Bihar and UP increasing and farmers’ income.

He also said diversifying into ethanol production can increase agriculture’s GDP from 12% to 22%. Gadkari also promoted ‘100% ethanol’ as a future fuel option.

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The petroleum ministry said using E20 petrol may require minor replacements like rubber parts or gaskets after 20,000 to 30,000 km in some old vehicles. These are cheap and happen during regular servicing.

Gadkari said locally produced ethanol reduces India’s import bill and pollution. He is not bothered about the social media discussions against E20.

To a question from the audience on whether vehicle owners could choose whether they wanted E20 instead of E5 — as in the case of Brazil, which allows consumers a choice between different gasoline blends and pure ethanol — the Minister said that India was still at a nascent stage of its transition to bio fuels unlike Brazil, which has over 80 years of experience. It will take another seven to eight years for stability and clarity, he said.

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