Maruti likely to offer E20 upgrade kits

With the government pushing forward its ethanol blending programme and oil companies discontinuing the supply of E10 fuel, vehicle owners are worried over the potential damage that these higher ethanol blends will cause to their vehicles. As far as warranties go, manufacturers are so far sticking to model-specific fuel recommendations. However, some companies are looking to provide relief to owners of non-E20-compliant vehicles.

1. E20 material kits expected to be rolled out for vehicles up to 15 years old 
2. Upgrade kits could cost Rs 4,000-6,000, depending on the model

We understand that Maruti Suzuki is likely to offer E20 material upgrade kits and would do so for models going back 10 to 15 years. Not much is known about the pricing for these kits, including whether they would be subsidised, and if so, by whom. The cost of these E20 upgrade kits could range between Rs 4,000 and Rs 6,000, depending on the model. Other brands are also exploring upgrade programmes and are likely to have them in place soon.

Technical feasibility of E20 material upgrade kits

An upgrade to E20 compliance is technically feasible, especially so from a material compatibility point of view. Metal, rubber and plastic components like fuel lines, seals and gaskets need replacing, and this is easily done. However, there is still some effort required in testing and validation, especially so for engines no longer in production. Thus, the development of these parts will be an additional factor. Furthermore, overall E20 compliance can be an issue with retuning an engine to make sure that emission limits are within specification.