New Delhi: The government’s mandate of E20 petrol, now becoming standard, has come into effect from April 1, which requires petrol pumps across India to sell fuel blended with up to 20 per cent ethanol.
The fuel should have a minimum Research Octane Number (RON) of 95 across all states and Union Territories as well, the oil ministry said in a notification dated February 17.
RON, or Research Octane Number, is a measure of a fuel’s resistance to engine knocking (pre-ignition). Knocking happens when fuel burns unevenly inside the engine, causing a pinging sound, loss of power and possible engine damage over time. The higher the RON, the more resistant the fuel is to knocking.
In simple terms, octane is like a fuel’s ‘self-control under pressure’ – higher RON means fuel stays stable under high compression.
The central government clarified that exceptions are allowed in special regions and for a limited time.
Ethanol naturally has a high octane value (around 108 RON). Blending 20 per cent ethanol in petrol increases knock resistance. It is made from sugarcane, maize, or grain and is also renewable. Ethanol is domestically produced and has cleaner burning than pure petrol.
The government has mandated ethanol blending in petrol to help cut oil imports and also reduce emissions. Such a mandate also supports farmers as it boosts demand for sugarcane, maize and agricultural surplus.
Government says no major issues expected
Most vehicles manufactured in India from 2023-2025 onward are designed to run on E20 and no major issues are expected, industry officials said.
Older vehicles may, however, see a slight drop in mileage (3-7 per cent). Also, the rubber/plastic component may wear.
The insistence on minimum RON 95 is to prevent engine damage.
With the Iran war disrupting the fuel supply chain, the E20 shift is said to be a strategic shield which aims to cut down on fuel import costs, improve energy security and support the agricultural sector.
The major difference between E20 and E10 fuel is the 10 per cent less ethanol blended with the petrol in the latter.
While E10 is cheaper, it contains relatively less energy, with vehicles needing more fuel to cover the same distance.
Encouraged by India achieving 10 per cent ethanol doping in petrol in June 2022 – five months ahead of the target date – the government advanced 20 per cent blending to 2025-26 from 2030.
According to the oil ministry, since 2014-15 India has saved more than Rs 1.40 lakh crore in foreign exchange through petrol substitution.
(With inputs from PTI)
