Overview
- Between Aug. 17 and Aug. 19 the Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran publicly urged that E10 (10% ethanol) be offered for older vehicles and the government has begun preliminary internal discussions on the idea.
- Petroleum Ministry officials say no formal decision has been taken and continue to assert that E20 was validated by tests and accepted by the automobile industry.
- Experts and the CEA flagged specific risks for an estimated 75–80 million older two‑wheelers whose rubber seals and fuel system parts may not be rated for 20% ethanol, and they say retrofitting those parts will take years.
- Oil marketing companies and ministry sources warn that selling E10 alongside E20 would normally require separate storage, transport and twin‑supply dispensing at pumps, raising costs and increasing the risk of contamination or malpractice.
- Political parties and citizen groups have amplified motorists' complaints about reduced mileage and possible damage, putting pressure on the government to produce a clear plan that balances farmer and energy goals with vehicle compatibility and retail logistics.