E20's impact on legacy carbureted bikes remains limited, CEA explains

Chief Economic Adviser V. Ananth Nagashwaran clarified that the concerns over E20 gasoline causing extensive damage to older carbureted motorcycles are largely unfounded. He cited international research, including studies from the United States and India, which showed no measurable rise in engine wear for vehicles not specifically certified for E20.

Nagashwaran explained that ethanol contains roughly two‑thirds of the energy found in pure gasoline, which translates to a modest reduction in fuel efficiency—approximately seven percent—rather than the dramatic loss often portrayed online.

He stressed that the real challenge lies with the roughly 75‑80 million two‑wheelers built before the BS‑IV emission norms. These machines, equipped with carburetors, cannot self‑adjust to the higher oxygen levels introduced by E20, leading to fuel‑lean conditions, hotter operation, and potential deterioration of seals and gaskets.

To mitigate these issues, Nagashwaran urged the re‑introduction of an E10 option at fuel stations, providing a practical solution for owners of legacy bikes while the government evaluates longer‑term strategies such as retrofitting or phased fuel‑blend adjustments.