E‑20 ethanol blend could cut mileage, Kejriwal warns consumers of financial loss

Arvind Kejriwal, the national coordinator of the Aam Aadmi Party, raised fresh concerns on July 29 about the economic impact of the government's push for E‑20 petrol – a fuel containing 20 percent ethanol – on vehicles manufactured before 2023.

Kejriwal pointed out that India has about 22 crore two‑wheelers and 8 crore four‑wheelers on the road that were built prior to the new blend's introduction. He argued that the lower calorific value of ethanol compared with conventional gasoline will inevitably shrink the mileage that owners can achieve per litre, leading to higher fuel expenses.

He cited conversations with officials from nine automobile firms who, according to Kejriwal, privately acknowledged that older engines and fuel‑system components could deteriorate faster when exposed to E‑20. The statements, however, remain undocumented because Kejriwal claims the Centre is pressuring manufacturers not to issue written assurances.

The politician warned that a mandatory switch to E‑20 could force millions of vehicle owners into unplanned repair costs and reduced resale values. He also questioned the purported benefits of the blend, such as foreign‑exchange savings and farmer income, stating that the cost savings are marginal and the environmental impact of large‑scale ethanol production – including soil degradation and groundwater contamination – remains a serious concern.

Kejriwal demanded the immediate public release of all scientific data, test results and risk assessments linked to E‑20 petrol. He appealed to the Prime Minister to reconsider the policy, insisting that consumer welfare must be given priority and that any attempt to hide technical shortcomings will be met with strong democratic resistance.