India’s accelerated rollout of E20 petrol, a fuel blend containing 20% ethanol, is encountering significant resistance from consumers who report vehicle stalling and reduced fuel efficiency.
Motorists have circulated videos on social media documenting these issues, fueling widespread anxiety about the compatibility of older vehicles with the higher biofuel content.
The backlash comes as the Indian government pushes to expand ethanol blending to reduce oil imports and support agricultural sectors.
However, the practical challenges faced by drivers are complicating the narrative around the policy’s benefits.
Experts suggest that while some issues may stem from the fuel blend itself, others could be attributed to ageing vehicle parts, poor maintenance, or contaminated petrol supplies.
The Indian Petroleum Ministry has previously issued a formal rebuttal to claims that E20 petrol causes engine damage, characterizing circulating reports as misleading.