Overview
- The state released test results on Friday showing 63 petrol samples taken from seven districts were examined after motorists complained about mileage loss and repairs.
- Private NABL‑accredited labs reported ethanol levels above the 20% legal cap in many samples with the highest readings at 31.2% for an IOCL sample and other high results for HPCL, BPCL, Nayara and Shell.
- Karnataka says the samples were first sent to oil companies’ in‑house labs that did not disclose ethanol content so the state sent them to independent labs to confirm blending levels.
- The state will forward the report to the Union government and has demanded OMC accountability, consumer compensation, and mandatory display of ethanol percentages at fuel stations.
- The findings revive practical questions from the 2025 E20 rollout about vehicle and dispenser compatibility because many older vehicles and some pumps are certified for lower ethanol blends which can reduce mileage and cause engine or filter problems.