New Delhi: The Centre is evaluating the next phase of India’s ethanol blending programme, with a roadmap that could see E21 petrol introduced by 2027 and E25 by 2029. The move comes even as the nationwide rollout of E20 petrol continues to fuel debate over mileage, vehicle compatibility and higher running costs, particularly among owners of older vehicles.
According to reports, the government is examining a phased transition instead of moving directly to higher ethanol blends. Under the proposal being evaluated, E21 blended petrol could be rolled out by 2027, while E25 could follow by 2029.
Reports by Business Today showed that the Centre is also considering capping ethanol blending in petrol at 25%, making E25 the highest blend under the current policy framework.
“The transition towards higher ethanol blending will happen in a calibrated and phased manner so that the automobile industry gets adequate time to prepare engines, supply chains and infrastructure accordingly,” a report by Business Today.
The gradual approach is intended to give vehicle manufacturers, component makers and fuel suppliers sufficient time to adapt to higher ethanol blends before they are introduced nationwide.
According to reports the government is aware of the concerns being raised over vehicle compatibility and fuel efficiency as E20 petrol becomes widely available.
“The idea is not to disrupt the ecosystem suddenly. The transition will be gradual and aligned with industry readiness,” report by Business Today.
The ethanol blending programme remains a key part of India’s strategy to reduce dependence on imported crude oil while increasing demand for domestically produced ethanol.
The Centre has already achieved nationwide availability of E20 petrol five years ahead of its original 2030 target. According to official estimates, reaching 20% ethanol blending has helped India save nearly 4.5 crore barrels of crude oil annually while reducing foreign exchange outflow by around Rs 1.5 lakh crore.
However, the rollout has also raised consumer concerns over mileage, vehicle performance and compatibility, making the proposed roadmap for E21 and E25 the next step in India’s long-term fuel strategy.
