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Ethanol-Blended Fuel Efficiency Drops Up to 5% for Some Vehicles
24 Aug
Summary
- Automotive experts warn of 2-5% drop in fuel efficiency with E20 fuel
- Older, non-E20 compliant vehicles face long-term erosion of fuel system components
- Government promotes E20 to cut emissions and boost farmer income
According to automotive industry experts, the usage of 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20) in vehicles could lead to a 2-5% drop in fuel efficiency, depending on the type of car. This is due to the lower calorific value of ethanol compared to regular petrol.
The government has been promoting the use of E20 fuel as a national program to cut emissions and boost the income of farmers. However, the impact on vehicles has been a subject of debate. While the Oil Ministry downplays any "drastic" reduction in fuel efficiency, it acknowledges a marginal 1-2% drop for vehicles designed for E10 and calibrated for E20, and around 3-6% for other vehicles.
Automotive engineers warn that in older, non-E20 compliant vehicles, there could be long-term erosion of gaskets, fuel rubber hoses, and pipes, though not immediately. The government maintains that vehicles tuned for E20 will experience minimal impact, with better acceleration being an added benefit.
Leading automakers in India have either made their vehicles E20 compliant or remain silent on the issue. As the government pushes ahead with its E20 program, vehicle owners and the industry will need to navigate the balance between environmental goals and potential impacts on fuel efficiency and long-term vehicle health.
