New Delhi: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday said BS-III vehicles manufactured before 2016 can run on E20 petrol (petrol blended with 20% ethanol), although some rubber components may require replacement during routine servicing.
In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Gadkari said that in BS-III vehicles, introduced from April 1, 2005, the use of E20 fuel could affect certain rubber parts, including gaskets. However, he said these components can be replaced easily as part of regular vehicle maintenance.
The minister cited studies conducted by the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), the Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) and the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).
According to the studies, E20 fuel does not require any engine modifications for cars and two-wheelers. The research also found no significant adverse impact on the performance of older vehicles, engine wear, engine starting, drivability, or on metal and plastic components.
Gadkari added that a vehicle’s fuel efficiency depends not only on the type of fuel used but also on factors such as driving habits, road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and other operating conditions.
