E100 Fuel Now Legal: Cars Can Run Pure Ethanol

The Central Motor Vehicles Rules have been amended to formally recognize E100 fuel for flex-fuel vehicles. This paves the way for automakers to introduce cars designed to run on fuel containing up to 100% ethanol.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways updated the rules, specifying that E100 and E85 can only be used in vehicles certified as flex-fuel by their original equipment manufacturers. This move aligns with the government's strategy to increase ethanol adoption in the transport sector and lower dependence on imported crude oil.

Only vehicles specifically engineered and certified for higher ethanol blends can utilize E100, distinguishing them from conventional petrol vehicles or those designed for E20 fuel. Maruti Suzuki has already showcased a flex-fuel Wagon R capable of running on blends up to E100.

Widespread adoption hinges on vehicle availability and the development of fuel supply infrastructure. Plans are underway to establish dedicated fuel retail outlets for flex-fuel vehicles, initially in key corridors, with broader expansion anticipated.