With E20 compliance mandates set to go into effect in the coming months, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently took to the stage at the India Energy Week conference in Delhi and promised that India will achieve 20 percent ethanol blending in petrol before October 2025. Petrol is currently being blended with 19 percent ethanol in India, which has “saved foreign exchange”, generated “substantial farmer revenue”, and “significantly cut CO2 emissions”, the prime minister claimed.

Upcoming E20 compliance norms explained

The Indian government had initially committed to 20 percent ethanol blending in petrol by 2030 but later advanced that target to 2025-26. Carmakers operating in India will be required to manufacture E20-compliant combustion engines, including those in hybrid powertrains, starting April 1, 2025. Honda is the latest company to secure E20 compliance for its model portfolio, joining the likes of Maruti Suzuki, Skoda, Hyundai, Volkswagen, Kia and others.

Ethanol, E20 fuel explained

Ethanol is a primary biofuel produced either through the fermentation of sugars by yeasts or petrochemical processes like ethylene hydration. An E20 fuel blend comprises 20 percent ethanol and 80 percent petrol. E20-compliant engines come equipped with reinforced components, as ethanol can corrode rubber and soft metal parts over time.

The government is championing ethanol blending to reduce India’s dependence on imported fossil fuels and boost the incomes of sugarcane and maize farmers. Moreover, it is also considering a roadmap for ethanol blending beyond 20 percent in petrol.