E20 petrol does not cause engine damage, it is safe, says Union Minister Suresh Gopi

NEW DELHI: The petroleum ministry said that the use of E20 petrol, which contains 20 percent ethanol, in old vehicles will not cause engine damage. Minister of State for Petroleum Suresh Gopi informed the Rajya Sabha that scientific tests and practical trials conducted in collaboration with NITI Aayog, vehicle manufacturers, Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and others have shown that E20 is safe.

Studies have shown that there is no significant difference in capacity due to the use of E20 in old vehicles. There has been no official report of any vehicle engine damage due to this fuel so far. Suresh Gopi also clarified that manufacturers provide warranty for vehicles using such fuel. Meantime, the minister informed the Rajya Sabha that exact figures are not available on how many vehicles in the country can safely use E20 petrol.

The central government had earlier clarified in the Rajya Sabha that there is no change in its decision to widely use E20 petrol in the country. This was informed to CPM MPs John Brittas and V Sivadasan. Automakers have also come out in support of E20 petrol. They said that the propaganda that the fuel will damage the engine is wrong.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Executive Vice President and Head Vikram Gulati said that vehicles sold in India undergo rigorous testing and certification processes. Maruti Suzuki India Senior Executive Officer Rahul Bharti also said that no major issues have been found.