Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday raised concerns over the Centre's E20 petrol rollout, alleging that the fuel could be hazardous for vehicles manufactured before 2023 and accusing the government of ignoring the interests of millions of vehicle owners. Kejriwal claimed automobile manufacturers were reluctant to publicly flag their concerns because they feared action by government agencies. His remarks came amid a wider debate over the impact of petrol containing 20 per cent ethanol on older vehicles that were not originally designed for the higher blend.
Kejriwal questions rollout
The former Delhi chief minister alleged that vehicles manufactured before 2023 could face problems from prolonged use of E20 petrol. He questioned why consumers with older vehicles should be required to use the fuel without adequate safeguards or alternatives.
Kejriwal also claimed automobile companies were aware of the potential problems but were unwilling to speak openly. He alleged that companies feared raids and other action if they publicly opposed the government's ethanol-blending policy. He sought clarity from the Centre over the implications of E20 for existing vehicles and demanded that consumers be provided with reliable information about compatibility, maintenance requirements and possible effects on engines and other components.
Centre pushes ethanol blending
India has rapidly expanded its ethanol-blending programme as part of efforts to reduce dependence on imported crude oil, lower emissions and increase the use of domestically produced biofuels. E20 petrol contains 20 per cent ethanol blended with conventional petrol.
The transition, however, has triggered questions among owners of older vehicles about compatibility and whether prolonged use could affect mileage, components or engine performance. Vehicle compatibility can vary depending on the model, year of manufacture and specifications prescribed by manufacturers.
Kejriwal argued that the transition should not impose additional costs on motorists who purchased vehicles before E20 became widely available. He said the government needed to address such concerns rather than leaving consumers uncertain about the consequences for their vehicles.
AAP seeks answers
The AAP leader called on the government to explain what safeguards had been put in place for owners of older cars and two-wheelers and whether consumers would have access to alternative fuel options.
His remarks add a political dimension to the discussion surrounding India's transition towards higher ethanol blending. The government has promoted the programme as an important component of its energy-security strategy, while questions over vehicle compatibility have continued to attract attention.
Kejriwal maintained that motorists deserved transparency over the impact of the policy, particularly those owning vehicles manufactured before the widespread adoption of E20-compatible technology.