The Indian government has acknowledged it lacks data on the proportion of vehicles in the country capable of running on E20 petrol, a fuel blend containing 20% ethanol.
Officials stated on Monday that while extensive studies and field trials have deemed the fuel safe, no comprehensive assessment of vehicle compatibility has been conducted.
The admission comes amid growing criticism from opposition parties and consumer groups, who have raised concerns about the potential impact of the higher ethanol blend on older vehicles not specifically designed for E20.
Critics argue that the rollout may pose risks to engine longevity and performance for a significant portion of the existing vehicle fleet.
This development adds a layer of uncertainty to India's broader ethanol blending program, which aims to reduce dependence on imported crude oil and support domestic agricultural output.
The government has previously maintained that premium petrol will remain ethanol-free and that there are no plans to increase blending beyond the current E20 standard.