Overview
- On Tuesday government sources denied reports of a scheduled E25 rollout and said compatibility testing for 25% ethanol petrol is still under way across multiple vehicle models.
- Several outlets reported the Centre is studying a phased roadmap that could see intermediate E21 by 2027 and E25 by 2029, but officials call those timetables unconfirmed and provisional.
- Large numbers of motorists, especially owners of pre‑2023 cars and two‑wheelers, have reported lower mileage and higher maintenance since the rapid E20 roll‑out, with a LocalCircles survey finding many pre‑2023 vehicles saw more than a 10% drop in fuel efficiency.
- Technical experts and automakers warn higher ethanol levels change fuel energy density, raise moisture and corrosion risks for fuel‑system parts, and require engine re‑calibration, material tests and durability certification before approval for widespread use.
- Policy moves such as BIS standards for higher blends and an excise exemption for 22–30% ethanol have fuelled speculation, but officials say future increases will be phased, based on ARAI and industry trials, and balanced against energy‑security and farmer‑income goals.